Eleven-year-old Ashleigh Horine is getting used to picking herself up. She says people often put her down because she has ADHD.
Horine, Participates in Total Life Counseling
"A lot of people tease people who stand out because they're different...and a lot of people, along with me, are like that and we always get bullied," Horine said.
Horine says she is making more friends now because of Total Life Counseling Center. She has been taking part in their recreation camps with mental health counselor Jim West for over a year now and it is making a difference in how she reacts to her peers.
"It's changed it a lot, because I'm not like someone who stands out as much. It's like I have a lot more friends now than I used to," Horine said.
TLC provides summer and fall camps that use outdoor activities to promote social interaction among children with mood disorders, depression, intense fear and anxiety issues.
"A lot of times the schools will report problems socially...but the parents don't see it, and the kids will say one thing, and the school will say another thing. And it's really hard for the parents to get a good picture. So we're able to come and observe their behaviors...and confirm some of the things the school is observing," said licensed mental health counselor Jim West.
By teaching kids to roll with the negative comments and to boost self-confidence by promoting teamwork.
Research shows children with ADHD are 25 to 30 percent behind socially and emotionally but according to Jim West showing these kids these outdoor activities give them a chance to narrow that gap."
Ashleigh's mother Dale Ann is a believer.
"That makes me feel good, because I feel that she is going to be successful, you know, in what she does, because she's learning the skills that she needs in order to go on with her life," said Dale Ann Horine, Ashleigh's mother.
Children considered for the Total Life Counseling Camp will go through a screening process to find out what programs work best for them.
If you would like more information about Total Life Counseling Center, you can visit their webpage at http://www.totallifecounseling.com.
That's Building Community.
Emily Lampa, Central Florida News 13.