Living With ADHD: Strategies for Well-Being

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurotype characterized by difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, impulsivity, disorganization, low frustration tolerance, and other traits that can pose challenges in a world structured for neurotypicals.

While living with ADHD can be tough at times, well-being can be vastly improved through treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

At a Glance

• ADHD is a disability, primarily due to societal norms favoring neurotypicals.
• Support for individuals with ADHD should focus on creating conducive environments that accommodate their needs without requiring masking or hiding.
• Living with ADHD involves self-monitoring and actively discovering strategies that work best for you.
• With the right support and treatment, you can create a life that allows you to reach your full potential.

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How People With ADHD May Be Perceived

Individuals with ADHD often struggle with focus, task completion, excessive talking, fidgeting, and impulsive actions. Children with ADHD commonly display hyperactivity, while adults may face more attention-related difficulties, leading to academic challenges.

Misunderstandings regarding ADHD are common. Those unfamiliar with the neurotype may label children with ADHD as unmotivated, lazy, or problematic.

Adults with ADHD may be perceived as irresponsible or flighty due to their challenges in remembering details, meeting obligations, and staying on task.

How It Feels to Be Newly Diagnosed

Many individuals experience a range of emotions upon receiving an ADHD diagnosis. Common feelings include:

• Relief: The diagnosis can provide a sense of validation, acknowledging that the difficulties stem from a neurotype and are not simply personal failings.

• Anger: Frustration towards past blame or lack of understanding from parents or teachers may arise.

• Grief: Sadness over a late diagnosis or the life that might have been without ADHD may surface.

It's normal to experience a mix of emotions following a diagnosis, and these feelings may evolve as you learn more about living with ADHD.

What You Can Do

• Acknowledge that these emotions are normal, even if they cause discomfort.

• Share your feelings with others and seek support when needed.

• Find local ADHD support groups to connect with individuals who share similar experiences.

• Consider therapy with a professional knowledgeable about ADHD.

• Seek out individuals with ADHD in real life and on social media who have experience living with the neurotype. Their insights can be invaluable in your journey of acceptance and growth.

• Explore online resources created by individuals with ADHD, such as the YouTube channel "How to ADHD," which offers practical tips and strategies.

Deciding Who to Tell

Sharing your diagnosis can empower you and encourage authenticity in your life with ADHD. However, explaining ADHD to loved ones can be challenging. Those unfamiliar with the neurotype may dismiss it as an excuse for avoiding responsibilities.

Unsolicited advice like "watch less TV and you'll feel better" can be hurtful and discouraging.

When loved ones express a desire to support you and understand ADHD, provide information about the neurotype and suggest ways they can offer meaningful support.

Consider informing your employer or professor about your diagnosis. For children with ADHD, sharing the diagnosis with the school is crucial.

Employers and schools can provide accommodations to support your needs. Simple adjustments like placing your desk away from distractions or allowing noise-canceling headphones can significantly enhance productivity.

It's also essential to inform all your healthcare providers about your diagnosis. Don't rely solely on medical records to convey this information.

Managing Your Traits

Collaborate closely with healthcare professionals to find the most effective treatment options for your unique needs. Communicate openly about what's working and what's not, and ask questions about what to expect from the treatment.

Continued management and monitoring of your traits are crucial, even when treatment seems to be effective. Traits can shift with environmental changes, and ADHD can manifest differently as you age.

Stay in touch with your treatment providers to discuss any changes or challenges you experience.

Medication adjustments or changes may be necessary over time. Additionally, therapy can be particularly helpful during significant life transitions like changing jobs.

Experiment with lifestyle adjustments that resonate with you. For instance, self-monitoring may reveal the need for more structure in your life to reduce time spent searching for misplaced items. Implementing organizational strategies can be key to managing your traits effectively.