It can be puzzling and frustrating when someone close to you, especially a family member, doesn't believe or understand your experiences, even when they have a similar condition themselves. There could be several reasons why your mom doesn't believe you have ADHD, despite her having the condition. Here are a few possibilities:
Misunderstanding or Misinformation: Your mom may have a different understanding of ADHD or be misinformed about its symptoms. ADHD can manifest differently in individuals, and she might not recognize the same symptoms in you as she experienced in herself.
Denial or Coping Mechanism: Sometimes, individuals with ADHD may develop coping mechanisms or adapt to their symptoms over time, making it difficult for them to recognize the same struggles in others, even their own children.
Stigma or Fear: There might be societal stigma surrounding mental health conditions, including ADHD. Your mom may be hesitant to acknowledge your struggles due to concerns about how it may impact you or how others perceive you.
Parental Expectations: Parental expectations can influence perceptions of a child's behavior. Your mom's expectations for you might not align with the challenges you face due to ADHD, leading her to dismiss or overlook your difficulties.
Personal Biases: Everyone has their own biases and beliefs, which can influence their perceptions and understanding of a situation. Your mom's beliefs and experiences might shape her perspective on your situation.
Communication Difficulties: Sometimes, communication gaps can lead to misunderstandings. It's possible that your mom doesn't fully grasp the extent of your struggles because of communication barriers.
Fear of Overdiagnosis or Misdiagnosis: There has been some concern about overdiagnosing ADHD in recent years, leading to skepticism about its prevalence. Your mom may be cautious about labeling you with a condition if she's uncertain about the accuracy of the diagnosis.
Regardless of the reasons, it's essential to have open and honest communication with your mom about your feelings and experiences. Try to approach the conversation with empathy and understanding, expressing how you feel and why you believe getting tested and receiving support would be beneficial for you. If your mom remains unconvinced, you can consider seeking support from another trusted adult or counselor who can advocate for your needs and help you navigate the process of getting tested and accessing the support you need. Remember, a diagnosis and proper support can make a significant positive impact on your life, so it's essential to pursue it if you genuinely believe it's necessary.