My son's ADHD diagnosis scared me at first. 7 years later, I know it's made me a better parent and person.

• My son's ADHD diagnosis has had a profound impact on our lives. • I was initially overwhelmed by the label, but eventually learned to appreciate his unique qualities. • Leaning into his needs has helped me become a more caring person.

When the doctor finally said the words, "Your son has ADHD," I felt like the air had been knocked out of me.

I held it together in the doctor's office, but the moment I got into the car, I broke down. I sat there crying, staring at the steering wheel, wondering what this meant for him — and for me.

Fear, guilt, and anxiety came crashing in all at once. I kept asking myself, if I had missed something. Did I fail him? How was I ever going to be the kind of mother he needed?

All I could see were the struggles

I'd always known my son was different. His