ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder is a form of neurodivergence. It means that our brain may process, learn, or work differently from what is considered “typical”. It can impact many different areas of our lives including time management, organization, impulsivity, and distractability.
That being said…if you have ADHD, have you ever found that you have difficulty focusing on a task that demands a lot of time and attention? But that other times it can be difficult to pull you away from something that is interesting to you? Or maybe you find it hard to just start a task and have been putting it off for weeks? But other times you feel excited about diving into a new challenge?
These are some of ways that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can show up in our lives. These examples demonstrate that the ADHD brain responds effectively when its core needs are met. Understanding ADHD in this way creates the opportunity for alternate possibilities of managing it. Instead of trying to “fit in” to a neurotypical world, can we use strategies that allows those with ADHD to thrive? And instead of looking at ADHD in terms of what we lack, can we look at it through the strengths and positive qualities it imbues?
While ADHD can create challenges with executive functioning, such as difficulty completing tasks if we lose interest; it can also mean that we have an innate desire to try new things, that we are creative, and that we are deeply engaged when working on a task connected to our passions. We can leverage this knowledge to work with the way that ADHD brain operates rather than trying to change it.
If you’re looking to understand more about how ADHD presents for you, our clinic can offer support to develop ADHD-friendly skills and strategies so you learn how to thrive.
Interested in learning more?
Join Burlington FHT Psychotherapist, Tara Salehi Varela, MSW, RSW, on
October 23rd, 2024 from 1:30-2:30pm at Tansley Woods Library
as we explore ADHD from a strengths perspective and share neurodiverse-friendly strategies to help you start living the life you want.
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