Helping boys to talk about anxiety with other boys--Ryan Wexelblatt

When I work with kids (particularly middle school and high school age) who present with ADHD & anxiety I think it's important to help them understand that ADHD with anxiety is common and that many other guys their age also have anxiety, particularly social anxiety.

Because boys typically do not talk about anxiety with other boys I've found that many believe they are the only one that has anxiety. At an age when kids want to feel "normal" I find it's helpful for them to understand that anxiety, particularly social anxiety is normal.

I always discuss ADHD with anxiety as well as social anxiety when I do my How to Hang Out program, during Summer Trip Camp, etc. because I want to create a space where it's O.K to talk about anxiety with other boys and hear that they have similar experiences.

I really wish mental health professionals would make a concerted effort to talk about anxiety from a male perspective with boys so they can understand that many boys their age also deal with anxiety (and possibly ADHD simultaneously).

I always use visuals to explain anxiety as many kids with ADHD learn best visually. Below, I used a cognitive behavioral framework to help a 14 year old understand how his anxious thoughts effect him.

Would you be interested in an online course to help you learn how to help your son with ADHD learn how to move through his anxiety and build resiliency? If so, please sign up: https://www.subscribepage.com/adhddude