Limerick parents describe ADHD workshop as giving them coping tools and helping them to feel less isolated
The ADHD Family Network ran the event in the Radisson Blu, Limerick for parents of children and young people with ADHD
FAMILIES and parents of children and young people with ADHD were supported through the first in-person workshop in Limerick at the weekend.
The ADHD Family Network was set up by three ADHD family coaches - Cate O'Connor, Ciara D'Rozario and Mirka Frommenwiler.
They have more than 50 years combined experience, as well as their own lived experiences of the challenges ADHD can bring.
On Sunday last, they held their first in-person parent workshop in the Radisson Blu in Limerick.
Founder Cate O’Connor said the event was a great success: “What stood out most was how much people valued being in the room together. Many parents shared that they often feel isolated in their experience, so having a space where they could connect with others who understand felt both reassuring and validating.
“There was a strong sense of openness, with parents sharing experiences, challenges, and insights with each other. We had both mothers and fathers attending, which was important to us, and it created a broader perspective in the conversations.”
ADHD can be very isolating and sometimes it’s not something that people share experiences about openly.
Ms O’Connor explained: “One moment that really stayed with us was when two fathers realised they had known each other over 20 years ago and reconnected at the event, now both navigating life with children with ADHD.
“It highlighted how common these experiences are, and how powerful it can be when families have the opportunity to come together.”
The event gave people awareness and practical insights and tools, as well as a space to connect and share.
Ms O’Connor said: “Families are navigating a range of challenges. Many parents carry a significant sense of guilt, often questioning whether they’ve done something wrong, particularly when behaviours are misunderstood rather than seen through an ADHD lens.
“There are also practical challenges, supporting children with executive functioning differences, managing school expectations, and advocating within the education system.”
The founder added: “Experiences with schools were mixed: some families felt well-supported, while others described ongoing difficulties in accessing appropriate understanding and accommodations.”
For many, accessing a diagnosis is a major challenge with long waiting lists, uncertainty and access to support.
Ms O’Connor stressed that while a diagnosis gets things moving, it’s only the beginning and parents can be left unsure about what the next steps are.
There are many elements along the path for a family experiencing ADHD and many moving parts.
Ms O’Connor explained: “We also want to acknowledge that many professionals, teachers, clinicians, and others, are doing their best within the system. At the same time, families are experiencing gaps in access, clarity, and continuity of support.”
She added that early intervention is key to supporting children, young people and families with any challenges that ADHD might present.
“Early understanding and support can make a significant difference, not just for the child, but for the entire family. When challenges are recognised earlier, families can build awareness, develop strategies, and feel more confident in how they respond.
“We often see that without early support, difficulties can escalate over time, becoming more complex and harder to untangle. Supporting families earlier has the potential not only to improve outcomes but also to reduce pressure on systems later on.
“Our focus is on helping families understand what’s happening, rather than waiting for things to reach a crisis point.”
Building on the success of the Limerick event, the network hope to return to Limerick for more future events and also have events planned in Athlone, Cork and Dublin.
Ms O’Connor said: “We certainly hope to return to Limerick. The response from families there was very encouraging, and there is clearly a need for this kind of space. #
“The atmosphere was shaped by the parents themselves, their openness, curiosity, and willingness to engage made it a meaningful experience for everyone involved.
“We were also very grateful to the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Limerick for hosting the event, their support made it possible to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for the families.”
READ ALSO: Fundraiser for Mid-West domestic abuse survivors organised by Limerick students is well supported
Here are some of the things parents who were there on the day had to say about the event:
“I am going away so much more positive. I have learned a lot, and I can’t wait to tell my son about this. Thank you for making me see that this is not my fault or that my child is to blame.”
“I came today because I wanted to be better for my family. It was so helpful hearing that other parents have been going through the same thing.”
“I came today because I wanted to know more and make connections with people locally.”
“It was so helpful getting strategies to implement that are all practical and knowing that your voice and your child’s voice matters and not to be afraid to speak up.”
“Great to have this in Limerick it was brilliant, definitely nothing like it in Limerick except online.”
Visit www.adhdfamilynetwork.ie for more information on future events and supports.