Useful ADHD Concepts

NEUROTYPICAL & NEURODIVERGENT

These terms are used to describe the different ways that people's brains work. 

• Neurotypical refers to people who think and process information in ways that are “typical” within their culture. They tend to learn skills and reach developmental milestones around the same time as their peers. 

• Neurodivergent describes someone who processes information in a different way. People with ADHD and similar conditions sometimes identify as neurodivergent.

• Neurodiversity is used to describe the diversity of human minds, and to argue that neurological differences should be seen as normal variations, rather than as disorders. 

• The Neurodiversity Movement advocates for the rights of neurodivergent people, and for the creation of a more inclusive society.

It is important to remember that neurotypical and neurodivergent are not mutually exclusive categories. There are many people who fall somewhere in between, and who may have both neurotypical and neurodivergent traits.

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EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS

A set of thinking skills that allow us to plan, organize, and execute tasks. They are essential for our ability to think ahead, make decisions, and solve problems.

While there is no single agreed-upon list of executive functions, here are some common examples:

• Planning and prioritizing: The ability to break down a large task into smaller, more manageable steps, and to determine which steps should be completed first.

• Time management: The ability to estimate how long a task will take, and to stay on track to meet deadlines.

• Organization: The ability to keep track of belongings and information, and to set up systems and routines to help stay organized.

• Working memory: The ability to hold information in mind for a short period of time, and to use that information to complete a task.

• Self-monitoring: The ability to be aware of one's own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and to make adjustments as needed.

• Flexibility: The ability to adapt to change, and to be able to think outside the box when solving problems.

Executive functions help us be productive, organized, and successful. Here are some examples of how executive functions are used in everyday life:

• When you are working on a project, you use executive functions to set goals, break down the project into smaller tasks, and stay focused on the task at hand.

• When you are driving, you use executive functions to pay attention to the road, follow directions, and make decisions about when to change lanes or turn.

• When you are trying to solve a problem, you use executive functions to gather information, generate possible solutions, and evaluate the solutions.

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ADD vs. ADHD

(it is now called adhd)

In the past, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) were considered to be separate. The main difference between ADD and ADHD was the presence or absence of hyperactivity. However, they are now considered to be different presentations of the same underlying condition, which all falls under the official diagnosis of ADHD. An official, clinical diagnosis of ADHD will most likely be one of the following three types:

• Predominantly inattentive presentation

• Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation

• Combined presentation

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IS ADHD CAUSED BY TRAUMA?

(no, but it can look that way)

ADHD is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is not caused by any single event or experience, and it isn’t caused by trauma. Not everyone with ADHD has experienced trauma, and not everyone who experiences trauma will develop ADHD. 

Trauma can affect the brain in a number of ways, including by altering the way that the brain processes information and responds to stress. This can lead to symptoms that are similar to ADHD, such as difficulty paying attention, poor impulse control, and hyperactivity.

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IS THERE A CURE FOR ADHD?

(no, but it can be managed)

ADHD is not a curable condition, but it can be managed with treatment. If certain symptoms appear to go away over time, this is most likely due to improved skills and coping mechanisms.

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IS ADHD A GIFT / SUPERPOWER?

(it depends)

Whether or not ADHD is a gift or superpower is a matter of perspective. Some people with ADHD may find that their symptoms give them certain advantages, such as creativity and hyperfocus. Others may find that their symptoms make it difficult to function in everyday life. For most people, it’s probably a combination of both—ADHD brings some advantages and some disadvantages.

Some potential benefits of ADHD:

• Creativity: People with ADHD are often very creative. They may be able to see the world in new and different ways, and they may be able to come up with creative solutions to problems.

• Hyperfocus: People with ADHD can sometimes hyperfocus on a task, which can allow them to work on something for hours without getting distracted. This can be a great asset in certain situations, such as when working on a creative project or studying for an exam.

Some potential challenges associated with ADHD:

• Difficulty paying attention: People with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention to details, following instructions, and staying on task. This can make it difficult to succeed in school or at work.

• Impulsivity: People with ADHD may act on impulse without thinking about the consequences. This can lead to problems in relationships, at work, and in school.

• Disorganization: People with ADHD may be disorganized and forgetful at times. This can make it difficult to keep track of things and to meet deadlines.

Keep in mind that ADHD symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people with ADHD may experience only a few mild symptoms, while others may experience more severe symptoms that significantly impact their lives.