There is a universal shared experience among those who possess ADHD. Regardless of whether or not they have had the opportunity to be diagnosed, a chronic sense of low self-esteem persists. This principle is an inevitable result of the countless internalized counterintuitive beliefs that are ingrained within ADHD children from an early age. If they are gone untreated, they often continue to affect them in their adult lives, whether personally, professionally, or even academically.
Some of these beliefs result from distorted labels casually said by those around us, whether peers, parents, teachers, or colleagues. The careless use of language such as “lazy”, “incompetent”, “distracted”, or “dumb” wear away self-esteem incrementally until individuals cannot separate themselves from the negative self-image pushed by society due to the lack of knowledge and awareness regarding these complex neurobiological processes. Therefore, emphasizing the importance of actively teaching helpful tools and strategies, individuals can begin to take ownership and regain control of their narratives – developing the necessary ability to recognize those cognitive distortions pushed by society as being rooted in ignorance and stigma rather than being inalienable facts. Therefore, in an attempt to steer away from this stigma, it is crucial to shed some light on the qualities that make ADHD individuals incredibly unique.
- Imagination and Creativity
It is well known that those who have ADHD have incredibly creative brains. The ability to stay engaged on a task can be enhanced by utilizing these natural creative tendencies – such as the gamification of a mundane task to finish it quickly or coming up with novel ideas that have not been done before. For instance, some individuals tend to have more inattentive traits that allow them to disassociate and, if adequately regulated, can come up with fantastical worlds, creative solutions, and ideas immersed in novelty that they can be valuable in their respective passions such as writing, reading, and art.
- Enthusiasm
The hyperactivity trait amplifies a natural sense of keenness and enthusiasm in how the individual interacts with the world around them. It makes them the most fun person to be with in the room. Their natural excitement for life acts as a beacon that allows others to gravitate toward them.
- Resilience and Perseverance
Those with ADHD can often make mistakes, which can be a product of traits such as forgetfulness and disorganization. Therefore, there is an unforgiving sense of determination and persistence to see through the task to the end, cementing qualities of perseverance.
- Empathy
A unique understanding exists between those who experience ADHD – one of compassion and empathy. The tendency of perhaps having a sense of low self-esteem makes a person with ADHD more sensitive to the needs and wants of others. Therefore, they can create an effective supportive and nurturing environment.
- Innovation
Due to divergent brains, individuals with ADHD are non-linear thinkers, enabling them to come up with extraordinary ideas, unique strategies, and ground-breaking solutions to problems others may not be able to solve. Here, being neurodivergent is a strength because of the ability to think beyond a linear thinking style.
It is essential to treat any individual we come across with kindness, empathy, and with judgement, as creating perceptions or generalizing statements can be incredibly harmful. They can influence the way people view themselves. As Einstein said it best, “Everyone is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”