The Gift You Can’t Return

The (Sometimes) Superpower

Is ADHD a gift and/or superpower?

OR

Is ADHD a condition that causes challenges in everyday life?

The answer to this question is really up to each individual, and for most people it may vary from day to day (or even moment to moment). While ADHD may feel like a gift or superpower at times, it’s important to note that there are myriad ways that it can pose significant challenges as well.

It’s both.

Our current societal, business, and public education systems were built by neurotypical people…for neurotypical people.

This means that there will be times when your neurodivergent brain has trouble adjusting to neurotypical culture, and there will also be times when one or more of your ADHD traits stands out in a way that helps you excel in your environment.

The Reality of ADHD

ADHD can present significant challenges at times, while also showing its strengths at other times. This inconsistency is actually one of the prime aspects of living with ADHD.

Possible ADHD Challenges:

    • Difficulty focusing and staying organized

    • Impulsivity

    • Hyperactivity

    • Trouble regulating emotions

Possible ADHD Strengths:

    • Creativity

    • Problem-solving skills

    • Passion and enthusiasm

    • Resourcefulness

From My Blog:
Mental Health Issues Are Not Gifts Or Superpowers
depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, mental health, coping
Mental Health Issues Are Not Gifts Or Superpowers
depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, mental health, coping

It’s gift-giving season, but it’s ok if your mental health issues don’t feel like a gift.

I recently came across another article that was trying to frame certain aspects of mental illness as being “gifts” or “strengths” or “superpowers.” I’ve seen more than a handful of these articles over the years, and I’m just plain done with them.

It certainly doesn’t feel “gifty” or super to be depressed, or to be anxious, or to have immense trouble focusing one’s attention, or to obsess about keeping your house extremely clean and organized.

Framing mental health problems as gifts seems to overshadow the significant challenges that they pose to one's daily life and general happiness.

depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, mental health, coping