It can be tough to grasp what ADHD really is, and even trickier to explain it to others. Many behaviours associated with ADHD are things everyone deals with occasionally, like misplacing keys or zoning out during a chat. But when someone with ADHD does these things frequently, it’s easy to jump to conclusions. People might think they just don’t care or aren’t trying hard enough. However, it’s crucial to remember that behaviour is influenced by the brain, and ADHD brains develop and function quite differently from neurotypical ones. These differences can be valuable, and many with ADHD wouldn’t trade their brains for anything. But without the right support, these differences can also be incredibly challenging. The struggle is real, and often invisible.
Key Takeaways
ADHD is not a deficit of attention but a challenge in regulating it.
Executive functions, like planning and prioritising, develop more slowly in ADHD brains.
Emotional dysregulation is a common challenge for those with ADHD.
Understanding ADHD can help reduce stigma and improve self-acceptance.
To help shed light on what it’s like inside the mind of someone with ADHD, we reached out to the ADHD community. One interesting fact is that, despite the name, people with ADHD don’t actually have a deficit of attention. When they forget to do something or struggle to focus, it’s often because their brains have difficulty regulating or shifting attention. Sometimes, their minds jump from one thing to another, while at other times, they might hyperfocus on a single task, making it hard to pull away.
As Eric Peterson puts it, neurotypical brains have a dial from 1 to 10 to manage attention. In contrast, ADHD brains have two settings: random and 15. This applies to all aspects of life.
The ability to regulate attention is part of the executive function system, which is like the brain’s self-management system. It helps with planning, prioritising, and staying focused on tasks. Unfortunately, in ADHD brains, executive functions develop more slowly, and there’s often a lack of the brain chemicals needed for them to work effectively. This means that even with the best intentions, the executive function system might not be developed enough to help manage tasks, leading to frustration.
Hailey Melville describes it as having a secretary in your brain. In a neurotypical brain, the secretary manages distractions and keeps things organised. In an ADHD brain, the secretary either lets everyone in or shuts everyone out, even if it’s something important.
Another key executive function is working memory, which is the ability to hold information temporarily. It’s like the brain’s RAM. Everyone has a limit to their working memory, but it’s often more restricted in those with ADHD. This can lead to blurting out answers or needing things repeated. Timothy Warnky likens it to a whiteboard where he has to write everything down immediately, but he writes big, so he often has to erase things to make space.
Interestingly, not everyone with ADHD is hyperactive. ADHD has three different presentations, and they can change over time. Even if someone appears calm, their brain might be racing. This internal restlessness can be exhausting. Diana Debater-Murray describes her mind as a hamster wheel that never stops, while Debra Credible compares it to a pinball machine, with thoughts bouncing around constantly.
This energy can be a double-edged sword. When directed well, it can lead to creativity and curiosity. People with ADHD often think outside the box and are more likely to start their own businesses. However, to harness these strengths, it’s essential to manage ADHD, often through a mix of medication and strategies.
Dr. Ned Hallowell explains that having ADHD is like having a race car engine for a brain. It’s powerful and can help you win races, but the brakes are like those on a bicycle. With the right support, you can strengthen those brakes and learn to control that powerful engine, leading to success instead of crashes.
Another challenge is emotional dysregulation. Jennifer Petersen describes it as having a bad sunburn; even a light touch can feel painful. Many people with ADHD struggle with regulating their emotions, which can lead to feelings of being misunderstood or judged.
If you didn’t know some of these things about ADHD, don’t worry. Many people, including those with ADHD, are still learning. It’s easy to feel like you’re just too sensitive or different when you don’t understand what’s happening in your brain. This misunderstanding can take a toll on self-esteem and lead to anxiety or depression.
As Comiendo Piscocho puts it, it’s like being the smartest yet the most confused person in the room at the same time. But understanding these challenges can help individuals accept themselves and find strategies to cope. It’s important to stop viewing ADHD symptoms as personality flaws and start appreciating the unique perspectives they bring.
Thanks for taking the time to learn more about ADHD. By doing so, you’re helping create a more understanding world for those whose brains work differently. If you want to learn more, check out additional resources and videos. Remember, ADHD looks different for everyone, and the best way to understand someone’s experience is to ask them about it. Together, we can make a difference!
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