Navigating The ADHD World
Ah, the wonderful and complex world of ADHD! As a therapist, I've been working on accepting and channeling my ADHD symptoms into a force for good. For example, I jumped right on into opening and growing a therapy practice and then learned as I went. I get clients who inspire me to be better and will take trainings and read all the books a week later. I believe ADHDers are incredible individuals who, armed with creativity and boundless energy, tackle life head-on like described above. The term “ADHDer” is a newer term that grew out of the Neurodivergent umbrella (OCD, ADHD, Autism, etc.) and is person first language. More information about person-first language is available here: https://autisticadvocacy.org/about-asan/identity-first-language/
Does that mean that ADHD doesn’t come with its setbacks and stressors? Absolutely not. Approaching ADHD clinically is a dance of empowerment and skill building.
Welcome to the ADHD Circus!
Imagine life as a circus - a colorful whirlwind of clowns, acrobats, and jugglers. It's a vibrant world where ideas fly faster than confetti and spontaneity takes center stage. Embrace the chaos, because within it lies a wealth of creativity and innovation. This is also met with being easily distracted by the environment and having trouble focusing. We work to find strategies to quiet the world.
The Power of "Hyperfocus Heroes"
Ever witnessed an ADHD individual in the zone? It's like watching a superhero emerge from the shadows to take on the world. They dive into tasks with a laser-like focus that rivals even the most dedicated. Encourage and celebrate these moments of "hyperfocus heroism." Now, sometimes we have to hijack that hyperfocus so that we can get mundane tasks done like homework, chores, showering and…I’m already bored.
Navigating the Sea of Sensations
Sensory sensitivity? It's like having a finely tuned radar for all things sensory. Adjusting the environment to suit preferences can be a game-changer. Dim the lights, tune the music, and watch as focus levels skyrocket. We can figure out your sensory profile so that you can self-soothe in all the situations.
Mindfulness: The ADHD Anchor
Mindfulness is like a lifeboat in the stormy seas of ADHD. It's not about sitting still like a statue, but rather about appreciating the beauty of the present moment. Encourage mindfulness in ways that resonate, find what brings peace and presence. Most ADHD folks cannot sit and clear their mind for 30 minutes but mindfulness is about what speaks to you, whether it’s 10 minutes of music, video games or something that may not traditionally seen as mindfulness, we get creative!
Social Ninja Training
Social cues? We decode them like secret messages. While others might need a decoder ring, ADHD folks are adept at picking up on subtle shifts. Nurture these instincts and provide a safe space for social exploration. It's where lifelong friendships and meaningful connections are born.
The ADHD Advocacy Avengers
Together, we're like a team of superheroes championing the rights and needs of neurodivergent individuals. Advocating for accommodations in educational and workplace settings is part of the therapist’s job. It's not about asking for special treatment; it's about leveling the playing field. This can mean needing additional time to complete assignments, a quieter environment for test taking or being allowed to have fidgets for self-soothing.
Laughter and Connection: An Antidote to Shame
Laughter truly is a universal language. It's good for the soul and a spark of joy in the daily grind. ADHD folks are some of the funniest people you will ever meet. We encourage humor in therapy sessions and in daily life. A good chuckle can be the best way to release tension and embrace the lighter side of the ADHD journey.
Conclusion
Managing ADHD through an inclusive neurodivergent lens is about finding ways to accept and honor this part of yourself while using the strengths you already have towards areas of struggle. It's about recognizing the unique strengths, navigating challenges with grace, and infusing life with warmth and humor. Together, we can embark on this adventure, supporting your growth, helping you create systems and routines, find coping mechanisms all while still honoring your ADHD neurospicy magic.
