ADHD and Emotional Regulation: Strategies for Parents

A common symptom of ADHD is emotional dysregulation, and many parents struggle with trying to help their child regulate their emotions. It is hard to help your child feel less overwhelmed, and those with ADHD have a harder time calming down after they are emotionally triggered. At TLC Pediatrics in Norwalk, CT, Dr. Patricia Jorquera works with parents to teach strategies that improve a child's ability to regulate their emotions. When you are having a hard time managing your child's behavior because of emotional dysregulation, it's time to see how a pediatrician can help.

Signs of Emotional Dysregulation in Children

Emotional dysregulation can look different from child to child. Some children get quiet when they are feeling stressed, while others begin to act out as they start to feel overwhelmed. If your child is not able to express their needs, or starts crying uncontrollably, there are ways you can help your child regulate their emotions. When your child is prone to emotional outbursts, it is important that you support their emotional needs and model solid coping skills.

Strategies for Parents to Help With Emotional Regulation

The first step in trying to help your child regulate their emotions is to determine what they are struggling to deal with. If you can identify the trigger of a strong emotion, you can help ease the impact brought on by the trigger. Maintain a calm voice as you talk to your child, and avoid asking too many questions about what is going on. When you start asking questions, your child may get further overwhelmed because of the additional stimulation.

Teaching your child coping skills for emotional regulation takes time, and it is important to remember that you are both learning how to better manage your child's ADHD. It is helpful to avoid further triggering your child during a period of emotional dysregulation, and this can mean removing your child from a stressful situation as needed. If you notice changes to your child's behavior, you can always set up an appointment to meet with their pediatrician to discuss your concerns.

Learn Emotional Regulation Strategies Now

If you need strategies to help your child regulate their emotions, it's time to set up an appointment at TLC Pediatrics in Norwalk, CT. Call our office today at (203) 855-7551, and set up an appointment to meet with Dr. Jorquera. You will be able to talk about your child's ADHD symptoms, and learn how to teach your child coping skills to help better manage their emotions.