This week, we’re diving into something that can totally transform your ADHD journey—community. 

Yep, the kind that shows up with coffee when you’re overwhelmed, shares a laugh after a meltdown, or simply says, “I get it.”

Because when it comes to ADHD, the old saying is 100% true: it takes a village—a smart, loving, real-life village of folks who lift you up, have your back, and remind you that you’re never alone in this. You ready? Let’s build your village! 🏡

It Takes a Village: Build Your ADHD Support Network! 

Living with someone who has ADHD (either your child, your partner, or yourself) can feel like running a marathon while juggling flaming torches—on roller skates. (Okay, maybe that’s an exaggeration, but you get the point!) 

ADHD can make things tricky! So, whether you're a parent raising an ADHD child or navigating your own neurodivergent path, a solid support network—a.k.a. your ADHD village—is your secret weapon. 

Let’s explore how to build that village and why it’s the game-changer you didn’t know you needed. 

Why Do You Need a Village?

🔬Here’s what the science says: 

Research published in the Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology reveals that kids and adults with ADHD often experience higher levels of perceived stress. And that stress doesn’t just feel bad but actually makes symptoms worse. Stress ramps up impulsivity, derails focus, and hits the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain that’s already working overtime in ADHD brains. It’s like turning up the volume on chaos in a system that’s already a bit too loud.

But here’s the good news—really good news!

Research from the Journal of Attention Disorders shows that strong social networks can actually help regulate emotions and build consistent routines—two of the biggest hurdles for folks with ADHD. 

Think of your village as your brain’s secret ally, helping calm emotional storms and keep daily life running more smoothly. When you're surrounded by people who "get it," your brain breathes a little easier. 

So why a village? Because ADHD doesn’t just live in one part of your life. It’s everywhere. And it’s way easier to tackle when you’ve got people who get it.

Who Belongs in Your ADHD Village? 

A strong ADHD village has people from all walks of your life, each bringing their own flavor of support. 

❤️ Family and Close Friends 

Pick the ones who lift you up and love you just as you are. They might not totally understand ADHD (yet), but with a little education, they’ll become amazing allies.

❤️ Teachers, Coaches, and School Helpers 

For kids (and teens), school support is like gold. ADHD-aware teachers, counselors, and tutors can build plans that turn struggle into structure. Think IEPs, check-ins, and brain breaks.

❤️ ADHD Professionals (like your ADHD Health Practitioner!)  

Holistic health practitioners, therapists, doctors, and ADHD coaches are like the architects of your village. They bring the structure, tools, and insights that help you (or your child) thrive. These pros use science-backed strategies to support focus, emotional regulation, and daily routines that actually stick.

🔬 Here’s what the research says:

Natural doesn’t mean unproven. In fact, studies show that several non-medication strategies can be very effective at reducing ADHD symptoms.

Let’s break down a few of the key ADHD professionals to add to your village, starting with your holistic health practitioner. 

And guess what? You don’t have to look far for one of these—your own ADHD health practitioner is already right here, part of this village! I have worked with 1,543 families (and counting) and can tell you from their experience (and from my own son’s) that natural strategies work! 

Your ADHD support network isn’t complete without someone who looks at the whole picture. That’s where holistic health practitioners shine. Whether it’s exploring the gut-brain connection, adjusting the diet, improving sleep, or using functional lab testing and targeted supplements, the guidance you receive from these professionals is grounded in experience, education, and real-life compassion.

Another professional to consider adding to your village is someone who does Behavioral Parent Training (BPT). 

If you're a parent, you know that you’re much more than just a caregiver. You’re also a coach-in-training! A large review of studies in Frontiers of Pharmacology found that BPT is one of the most effective non-medication tools for helping kids with ADHD. It teaches parents how to guide their child’s behavior, boost focus, and build skills like following routines and handling big feelings. 

Next up is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). 

For teens and adults, CBT is a powerful tool. A major meta-analysis in Psychology and Psychotherapy showed that CBT can help with emotional regulation, self-esteem, and life organization. It’s especially effective in helping people to manage the internal storms of ADHD with real, repeatable strategies.

And finally, ADHD Coaching. 

Think of ADHD coaching as a personal trainer for your brain. Research shows it helps people across all age groups build goal-setting, time management, and emotional control skills. Whether it's getting through a school day or managing a busy job, coaching brings structure and clarity to ADHD’s unpredictable rhythms.

❤️ Peer Support Groups 

ADHD groups online or in your community are packed with people who just get it. No need to explain why your laundry is still on the couch or why your child is in the middle of a full-on meltdown over a screen that  just went off —they’ll nod, smile, and say, “Same.” 💬

Looking for an ADHD group? Check out our free ADHD Parent Facebook group here.

How to Build Your Dream Team 

Creating your village doesn’t have to be a huge project—it starts with one conversation.

✔️Step 1: Be Brave and Ask for Help 

You don’t have to carry it all. Let trusted people know how ADHD affects you and what kind of help would mean the most. Start small: “I’d love it if you could check in midweek—it keeps me grounded.”

✔️Step 2: Share What Works 

Most people want to help—they just don’t know how. Share articles, funny memes, or infographics that explain ADHD. Turning learning into laughter makes support way easier.

✔️Step 3: Find Your People 

Online groups (like our facebook group), local meetups, or even podcasts (have you tuned in to the Soaring Child podcast yet? If not, do that here!)  can connect you to people on the same journey. There’s comfort in knowing you’re not the only one Googling “how to help a child get ready for school without a meltdown.” 

How to Keep Your Village Strong 

A good village grows with love and care. It’s like a plant—water it regularly! 🌱 Here’s how:

✔️ Check In Often 

Send a quick “thank you” text or have coffee with your supporters. Little things keep relationships strong.

✔️Share the Wins 

When something goes great—like sticking to a new routine—celebrate with your village! They’ll love being part of your success.

✔️Give Back 

Support goes both ways! Offer to help others when they need it. Maybe you’ve got tips that will make their day.

ADHD + Village = Superpower! 🦸‍♀️🦸‍♂️

ADHD is real, and yes—it’s challenging. But when you’re consistently supported—emotionally and practically—the brain’s stress response is lowered, and cognitive functioning improves, making everyday tasks more manageable and less overwhelming, especially for ADHD brains.

So go ahead—send that text, join that group, open that conversation. Your support network is out there, and they’re ready to cheer you on.

Because thriving with ADHD…it’s a team sport. 

Recipe: Snack Together Trail Mix 

Food has a magical way of bringing people together. Make this easy trail mix with your support team—kids, friends, or family—for a fun and grounding activity that fosters connection.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup almonds or peanuts (or your favorite nut)

• 1 cup dried fruit (like cranberries, raisins, or mango chunks)

• 1 cup gluten free pretzels (we like this brand) or non-gmo popcorn (we like this brand)

• ½ cup dark dairy-free chocolate chips (we love enjoy life brand)

How to Make It:

1. Toss everything in a big bowl and mix.

2. Divide into individual snack bags (like these) for grab-and-go goodness.

3. Share the love! Deliver a bag to a friend or family member to thank them for being part of your ADHD village.

Pro Tip: Use this time to chat about how they’ve supported you or share a laugh. It's about the connection as much as the snack! 

Need a Little Extra Help Getting Started? We’ve got 2 tools to help! 

Tool 1: A Book

Building your ADHD village is easier when you’ve got the right tools at your fingertips—and we’ve got just the thing!

📘 Our book Thriving with ADHD is packed with practical strategies, emotional support, and real-life tools to help you (and your family) stay focused, connected, and confident.

And the best part?

 👉 It’s just $5 right now!

That’s less than a fancy coffee—and way more energizing. 

Click here to grab your copy now!

Tool 2: A Buddy System 

Sometimes the simplest tools are the most effective! The ADHD Buddy System is an easy way to stay on track and feel supported. Here's how it works:

How to Set Up Your Buddy System:

1. Choose Your Buddy: Pick someone who understands ADHD and can offer non-judgmental support. This could be a friend, family member, or fellow parent in your village.

2. Set Shared Goals: Whether it’s remembering appointments, staying consistent with routines, or just being there to listen, decide how you’ll support each other.

3. Schedule Regular Check-Ins: Weekly texts, calls, or coffee dates keep the connection strong and the accountability flowing.

Want to make these regular check-ins even more fun? Try out these conversation starter cards to get the conversation started! 

Why It’s a Game-Changer:
The Buddy System makes challenges feel lighter because you’re sharing the load. Plus, it’s a great way to deepen relationships in your ADHD village.

We LOVE hearing from you!!

Jess tagged us last week in our ADHD Parent Support Group on Facebook, and I have to tell you - her comment totally made my day!

Keep your thoughts coming! YOU might be featured in next week’s edition!

Did you miss last week’s newsletter on emotional regulations? As a subscriber, you can go back anytime and read previous newsletters on our website. 

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