Youth Home Inc TRICARE East & West Residential Program for Children Ages 12-17 with Mental Illness

Early trauma can greatly impact the brain, resulting in reactive attachment disorder (RAD). Kids don't outgrow RAD. Those who raise them can't "good parent" RAD away.


Here's what you can do to support parents of kids with RAD:


5 Ways to Support Parents of Kids with Reactive Attachment Disorder


Don't Judge. It's easy to look at a parent who is struggling with their child and assume they need to try different parenting approaches. However, know that RAD is a serious mental health affliction, not a parenting issue. Rather than judge a parent of a child with RAD, remind yourself that you’ve likely never walked in their shoes. Parenting is not a “one size fits all” experience. All kids are different.


Be there, even from afar. Raising a child with RAD is difficult and lonely. Friends and family usually don’t understand the disorder and many people unfairly place blame on parents for their child’s struggles. Let parents know regularly that you’re thinking of them. Understand, however, if they can’t accept your invitations to coffee or if they reply to your texts a week late. They're dealing with a lot.


Do some research. Get online and find resources written by parents of kids with RAD. You’ll gain a much better understanding of what parents go through. After you learn more, you can ask parents informed questions and perhaps offer help where you can. (View RAD Resources Here)


Talk about your "normal life" (without boasting). To raise kids with RAD often means regular chaos. Many parents long to hear about “normal” things such as your new puppy or a sale you found on your favorite food at the grocery store. Just try not to boast about your own child. As much as they’d be happy for you, they may feel embarrassed or inferior that they and their child are merely getting by.


Listen to and believe the parents. The most important thing you can do is to really listen to parents of kids with RAD. Give them a safe place to share their experiences. A symptom of RAD is manipulation. So while parents often experience their child’s extreme behavior dysregulation, you may only see a well-mannered and charismatic child. Honor the parent's trust in your, believe what they tell you, and respect their parenting choices.


Have Mercy on Their Caregivers


While raising a child with RAD, primary caregivers often:

  • Must remain calm yet vigilant about the physical and mental wellness of the whole family in the midst of incessant arguing and bouts of rage from the child
  • Attempt to attach emotionally to the child but are repeatedly rejected
  • Are falsely accused of abuse, neglect, etc. by the child due to the nature of the disorder (to reject attachment)
  • Are blamed by and ostracised from their community, friends and family due to the confusing and deceiving nature of RAD, including false allegations
  • Lack personal and professional support due to an overall lack of accurate education about RAD
  • Notice negative changes within self and family outside of their control
  • RAD is a serious mental health disorder that inhibits a child's ability to trust primary caregivers and leads to maladaptive self-protective behaviors. Those raising children with RAD often develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).


Because of this, parents of children with RAD really need all of the support they can get. Thank you for being researching and involving yourself in ways to support families who have a child with RAD. Your continued support will go a long way.

Reactive Attachment Disorder Therapy

If you've tried many of these things to no avail, are feeling unsafe in the home, or like outpatient therapy is just not meeting the needs of your child - we understand. There is not quick fix for Reactive Attachment, and we know from years of experience that this disorder in particular is really hard on parents. 


Youth Home's RAD treatment program was designed with your child in mind, and focuses on social skills, empathy, regular game play, healthy interactions, education and community contribution. If you think you're child could benefit from a more intensive/long-term treatment program, we hope to be a tool for you.


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Our mission is to equip and empower youth, adults, and families to become healthier and contributing members of the community by providing compassionate psychiatric and behavioral health care.

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By Courtney Argo • January 8, 2025
8 Steps to Creating a Winter Routine That Supports Your Teen's Mental Health With shorter days and colder temperatures, it is easy for teens to feel the impact of winter on their mental health. The lack of sunlight, limited outdoor activities, and changing schedules can be overwhelming. Developing a winter routine can help your teen stay grounded, focused, and emotionally healthy during this season. Here are eight actionable steps to support their well-being: 1. Prioritize Consistent Sleep Patterns Sleep is vital for mental health, and teens are especially susceptible to irregular sleep schedules during winter breaks and holidays. Encourage a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends. Quality sleep improves mood, energy levels, and concentration—all crucial during the winter months. Tips: Limit screen time before bed to help them wind down. Create a cozy bedtime routine with calming activities like reading or journaling. Consider blackout curtains or a sunrise alarm clock to mimic natural light cycles. 2. Stay Physically Active While winter may limit outdoor activities, staying active is crucial for mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, which can reduce stress and improve mood. Help your teen find activities they enjoy, whether indoors or outdoors. Ideas: Bundle up for a family walk or hike. Encourage them to try yoga or dance workouts at home. Suggest joining a winter sports team or visiting an indoor climbing gym. 3. Encourage Healthy Eating Habits The comfort foods of winter can be tempting, but a balanced diet plays a significant role in mental health. Include meals rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to help regulate energy levels and mood. Suggestions: Cook together to make healthy meals fun and educational. Incorporate mood-boosting foods like salmon, nuts, and leafy greens. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which can lead to energy crashes. 4. Foster Social Connections The colder months can isolate teens, especially if they are spending more time indoors. Make an effort to encourage social interaction, whether through in-person or virtual means. Ways to Connect: Host a game night or movie marathon with family or friends. Support their participation in school clubs or community groups. Help them organize virtual hangouts with friends if weather limits travel. 5. Embrace the Outdoors Even during winter, exposure to natural light and fresh air can boost mood and energy. Encourage your teen to spend time outdoors, even if it is just for a few minutes a day. Activities: Go ice skating or sledding as a family. Take short walks during daylight hours to soak in natural light. Start a simple birdwatching or nature photography project. 6. Model Stress-Relief Techniques Winter can be a busy and stressful time with school deadlines, holiday expectations, and more. Equip your teen with tools to manage stress effectively. Techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises or guided meditations together. Encourage them to keep a gratitude journal to focus on positive aspects of their life. Create a quiet, comfortable space in your home where they can relax. 7. Be Attentive and Communicative Teens may not always express their feelings directly, so it is important to stay tuned into their emotional needs. Regular check-ins can help you gauge how they are coping and provide opportunities to offer support. Tips for Communication: Ask open-ended questions like, “How are you feeling about school lately?” Listen actively without judgment or interruption. Share your own experiences to normalize conversations about mental health. 8. Seek Professional Support When Needed If your teen is showing signs of persistent sadness, withdrawal, or anxiety, it may be time to seek professional help. Therapists and counselors can provide tools and strategies to navigate challenges and build resilience. Visit our Outpatient Clinic to learn more about therapy options. For families considering more intensive care, find out more about our Residential Treatment Program . Winter does not have to be a season of struggle for your teen. By creating a routine that prioritizes sleep, activity, nutrition, connection, and communication, you can help them thrive both mentally and emotionally. Small, consistent steps can make a big difference in their well-being—and yours too.
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