“I dearly love my partner but, at times, I can’t make sense of some things that occur. It’s clear that no one among our family members and close friends understands the complexities of ADHD and the effect it can have on relationships, particularly with a partner/spouse, unless you’ve experienced it. What better way to find support and validation than to discuss/share with those who live it on a daily basis.”
“It’s nice to be in a safe space where you can speak to individuals who may share some of your experiences and can provide realistic advice you can implement in your life.”
“The Partners & Friends Group has been so helpful in so many ways. It connects me to people who are going through similar issues, where I can get feedback and help, navigating through this journey. I feel so lucky to be part of it.”
More Resources
BOOKS:
The ADHD Effect on Marriage by Melissa Orlov
Is It You, Me, or Adult A.D.D. by Gina Pera
ARTICLES:
https://www.additudemag.com/speak-easy/
Good communication is key… but sometimes, people with ADHD don’t do that so well.
https://www.unlockingadhd.com/adult-adhd-impact-marriage-relationships/
Common issues in a relationship due to ADHD.
https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-in-adults-nervous-system/How adults with ADHD think and feel.
“... the ADHD Partners and Friends Support Group is both useful and reassuring. Useful for some of the strategies and tips, to help keep everyday life on a more even keel. Reassuring, to hear other people’s stories and struggles - and to know there are so many similarities. Bottom line, we are not alone and it’s always good to remember that.”
ADHD Partners & Friends Support Group
Relationships of any kind can be complicated at times, without the added challenges of ADHD and a non-ADHD partner mixed together – at home, at work – wherever. When life’s roller coaster brings challenges, it can help to have a safe place to reach out for help or support, and learn about ADHD.
Our Partners and Friends group provides a safe, non-judgemental and supportive space for those struggling in their relationship(s) with someone with ADHD -- a spouse/partner, a family member, a friend or colleague, etc.
In our group, we share experiences, and learn from each other. We learn about and share potential solutions to issues of difficulty or conflict but most of all, we provide support for one another in a kind and loving place.
We are a peer-to-peer group of volunteers and part of the Vancouver Island Adult ADHD Association, a registered non-profit society. We are not professional counselors; we are neurotypical (non-ADHD) individuals who put effort into our relationships with partners or friends with ADHD.
We have a monthly meeting, on zoom, for about 2 hours, and we talk about the impact of loving an individual with ADHD has on our everyday lives.
There’s no pressure in our group to “open up” unless you are comfortable or ready to do so. You can raise a topic you would like to discuss with the group or simply join in and listen to the discussion. We encourage people in the group in the group to share their experiences and solutions – you never know how that could help someone else in their journey.
If you or someone you know is interested in this support group – just email adhdpartnersvictoria@gmail.com. We’ll add you to our mailing. We only need your email address, and your name. We use the mailing list to send out reminders for the monthly meeting, and the Zoom co-ordinates for the meeting.