diagnosis and direction

My boy has a diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder. This isn't a huge shock. It's been suggested before, by teachers, friends, and even me. I am not exactly relieved either. While I despise labels, it is somewhat comforting to know what it is that we are dealing with. It makes our frustration level feel a little more acceptable, even if I'm not happy with the way we deal with that frustration. We will also need to rule out ADHD. It's always been a borderline diagnosis for him, but he never responded well to stimulant medication. Again, just a piece of the puzzle but no real solution.

The therapist set the responsibility for dealing with these problems and achieving his goals squarely on William's shoulders. She was irritated with the whole family dynamic, but she only did an assessment and set up some return appointments. We weren't attacked, even though she must have wanted to really badly a couple of times. Let's just say no one put on any facade for her benefit. It was all very real and true to form. I am too desperate for help to even be embarrassed.

William has a lot of work to do, and we have to learn better coping skills. It's ok to demand certain standards and enforce the rules of the house, but we cannot change him. He has to want that for himself.

I am still sad, but a little more hopeful. We have asked for help and it is coming. William likes his job so far, but he will have to figure out how to juggle his responsibilities. I think it is good for him to have a dose of reality, even if he isn't ready for it. He thinks that he is.