Troubled Teens Resources

Oppositional Defiant Disorder presents an incredible challenge for parents, as does it’s close cousin, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. It is important for parents who are coping with the emotional hardships that parenting such children entail, to make sure that they receive some nurturing too. Parent support groups typically form around “special needs” kids. They can be discovered through your school and there are many support options available on the internet. And it is not a complicated matter to start one yourself, such as this parent has.

“Their children suddenly run without looking, tell fantastic stories with the conviction of truth, or just cover their ears and scream.
[..]
Julie, Terri, Nancy and Kim, each have at least one child-Pat has a grandson-with special needs, including autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
[..]
“It feels good to share things.”

“This is very good because I got to know parents with similar problems,” Kim said. “I get to learn different techniques and programs.”

For three years, Slawson has provided a time and place for the mothers to meet and talk about raising children facing special problems.

It’s a combination workshop, class, daycare and group therapy session that Slawson calls “chicken soup for the soul.”

The informal sessions meet four times a school year and might include real soup and snacks. Childcare is provided.”

(Source)

Teen age drug abuse, academic failure, and estrangement from family have all been associated with ODD and ADD in troubled teenagers. Obviously, when parents are struggling against such harsh realities, they need regular helpings of “chicken soup”.