One Year In: Our Childs ADHD/ODD Journey

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A year ago, we made one of the hardest and bravest decisions for our son. We got him evaluated and tested. We got answers, and then started him on ADHD /ODD medication, hoping it would bring clarity, calm, and relief to a little boy we love so much.

Since then, our ADHD/ODD parenting journey one year in has been full of slow progress… and heartbreak. Breakthroughs… and breakdowns.

It’s been a year of testing, therapy, medication adjustments, new routines, and a whole lot of soul-searching. And we’re still very much in the thick of it.

The Progress

There have been improvements, and we hold onto them tightly.

• He’s learning to name emotions.
• His ability to focus at school has grown.
• His good days are truly amazing and full of laughter, curiosity, and creativity.

Some days, we actually feel like, “We’re getting there.”

We celebrate those days like milestones. We hold onto them with both hands. Because we know what’s likely coming next.

The Hard Truths of ADHD/ODD Parenting

Despite the progress, many days still feel impossibly hard.

The littlest thing like a simple no, a change in routine, or a request to brush his teeth, can turn into a screaming match. There are outbursts of anger and defiance that affect everyone around him, our other kids, our marriage, our sense of calm.

One moment can unravel the whole day. One conversation can leave us rattled.

We walk on eggshells constantly. Not because we’re afraid, but because we’re exhausted. We’re always hoping this conversation, this moment, won’t end in tears, yelling, or conflict.

Some nights, I cry just from being overwhelmed. From giving every ounce of patience, love, structure, and support, and still feeling like it’s not enough.

What Keeps Us Going

What keeps us going is love.

• Love for this boy and this beautiful, bright, emotionally complex child who is still learning how to exist in a world that feels too loud, too fast, too confusing.
• Love for each other. My husband and I lean on one another, even when we’re both wiped, even when we’re too tired to talk, even when we’re grieving the kind of “normal” that no longer fits our life.
• Love for those good days and those rare and beautiful moments when he thrives, when he laughs, when he surprises us with kindness or insight or calm.

Those moments remind us: He’s not broken. He’s just on a different path, and we’re walking it with him.

Still Searching for Support

We’re still adjusting meds.
We still use routines, visuals, praise, behavior charts, calming strategies.

We’re still in therapy, and yet, some days still leave us broken and wondering, What else can we possibly do?

If you’re a parent feeling that too I want you to know:

You’re not doing it wrong. You’re just doing something really hard. And you are not alone.

FAQ: One Year In: Our Childs ADHD/ODD Journey

What is the biggest challenge in ADHD ODD parenting?
Managing emotional outbursts and maintaining consistency, while balancing the needs of the whole family.

What helps most on the hard days?
Leaning on support systems, keeping routines, and focusing on small wins.

Does medication always work right away?
No, it can take time, adjustments, and patience to find what helps best.

What’s the most important thing to remember as an ADHD ODD parent?
Your child isn’t broken. They’re learning. And so are you.