ADHD 101: what you need to know
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly known as ADHD, affects millions of children and adults around the world. It can significantly impact a person's daily life, making it important to understand the different types, challenges and symptoms.
Since 2020, there has been a 400% increase in adults seeking an ADHD diagnosis in the UK, according to the ADHD Foundation. From 2020 to 2021, there was an 18% increase in the monthly average of NHS patients receiving treatment for the condition.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a condition characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that can affect an individual's ability to function in various life domains, such as school, work and social relationships. It is important to note that ADHD isn't about bad behaviour, mental health problems or learning disabilities. It’s not a result of laziness, lack of intelligence or poor parenting; it is a neurodevelopmental disorder. In simpler terms, it's about how our brains are wired. And they take longer to develop!
Types of ADHD
Did you know that there are different types of ADHD?
Three to be exact, and they each have distinct characteristics. In order to support yourself or others who have ADHD, it’s important to understand more about each type and how they differ.
Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive: human fireworks! People with this type are usually brimming with energy, can't stop talking and often act impulsively, not pausing to think about consequences.
Predominantly Inattentive (formerly known as ADD): these are the daydreamers of the ADHD world. They're easily distracted, may struggle with organisation, and interestingly, this type is more frequently found in females.
Combined Type: it’s like a combo meal with a bit of everything – a mix of hyperactive/impulsive and inattentive symptoms.
Common ADHD Symptoms
Understanding the common symptoms of ADHD is key to comprehending the challenges that those with ADHD experience, often on a daily basis.
If you have ADHD, you may experience one or two of these or all of them – I’ve experienced all of them at some point!
Difficulty Sustaining Attention: people with ADHD often find it challenging to focus on a single task for an extended period. They may have multiple tabs open on a computer (or in their brain!) and flit between tasks.
Easily Distracted: imagine a magpie spotting shiny things. That's how easily distractions can pull the attention of someone with ADHD.
Impulsivity: quick decision-making, such as impulse buying, without proper consideration can be a hallmark of ADHD.
Organisation Woes: finding a needle in a haystack might be easier than maintaining an organised space or schedule.
Initiation vs. Completion: starting tasks isn't the problem; it's the follow-through that can be tricky.
The Never-Ending Motor: many with ADHD describe a constant feeling of a motor running inside them, with no apparent "off" switch.
Masking
Here's a fascinating aspect of ADHD – some individuals, particularly those with the inattentive type, are like undercover agents. They've honed their skills at concealing their ADHD traits, sometimes not revealing them until much later in life. We call this "masking."
As someone who's been on this journey for the past year, I understand the challenges but I’ve experienced huge personal growth by letting my true colours shine and embracing who I am.
Associated challenges
ADHD doesn't travel alone; it often brings along some other challenges:
Emotional Roller Coasters: emotional dysregulation is common among those with ADHD. Feelings can be intense and change rapidly.
Rejection-Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD): this is like a magnified version of hurt feelings. Criticism or perceived rejection can hit especially hard.
Time Blindness: often feel like you have longer to do something than you actually do? Many with ADHD struggle to gauge the passage of time accurately. It's as if the clock ticks at a different pace. Therefore, you may find it tough to work to deadlines or arrive somewhere on time.
Metacognition Challenges: metacognition is the ability to think about thinking. People with ADHD may have difficulties in this area, impacting their self-awareness.
ADHD Awareness: Moving Forward Together
The theme for ADHD Awareness Month in October was “Moving Forward” which I think is a fantastic message. If you have ADHD, it’s easy to feel ‘stuck’ sometimes and you may struggle with executive dysfunction and taking action.
For those navigating life with ADHD, moving forward can involve recognising your strengths and harnessing them to help you thrive. People with ADHD are often creative and resilient, with a unique ability to think outside the box. I have found that seeking support when needed, practising self-compassion and finding an understanding community are important coping tools.
There are several organisations that support people with ADHD, including the following:
· ADHD 360
· ADHD UK
For those who don’t have ADHD, moving forward can involve adopting a mindset of empathy, patience and understanding. Recognise that people with ADHD may have unique needs and perspectives. In the workplace, consider providing accommodations that enable individuals with ADHD to thrive, contributing to a more inclusive and dynamic work environment. Additionally, educating yourself and others about ADHD can break down stereotypes and reduce stigmas, paving the way for a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Embracing Neurodiversity
ADHD is a multifaceted condition that doesn't fit neatly into boxes. It's essential to understand that people with ADHD, like everyone else, have unique strengths and challenges. By embracing neurodiversity, we can collectively move forward, recognising that ADHD can offer a unique lens through which we see the world.
In our quest for understanding and growth, let's stand together and forge a path towards a more inclusive and empathetic world.
Stay awesome, stay true to yourself, and remember, You’re a UNICORN! 🦄 (unique and rare in your own right!)
As an ADHD business coach, my mission is to work with you holistically, to help you discover your ADHD. The strengths and the crappy bits. I work with you on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. It's about helping you understand your executive functions, embrace your brain's unique wiring, and develop strategies and systems to thrive.
If you want to understand your ADHD more, I offer one-to-one coaching that explores strategies in your life and business that can help you survive and thrive. I would love you to book a discovery call with me to chat and explore possibilities that may work for you and your business.
This blog has been written with the help of Jenny from JP Content & Copy.
