ADHD should be diagnosed and managed with professional help, finding a culturally competent doctor is crucial.
Embracing neurodiversity and recognizing the strengths of ADHD brains can lead to success without conforming to neurotypical standards.
Finding the right medication for ADHD may require trial and error, open communication with the doctor is important.
Deep dives
Understanding ADHD and seeking professional help
ADHD is a real developmental disorder that is not caused by bad parenting or lack of discipline. It is well-researched and there are measurable differences in the brain. Getting diagnosed and seeking professional help is important to understand and manage ADHD effectively. It is recommended to find a culturally competent doctor who specializes in ADHD and respects your input as a patient. Seeking a professional opinion is crucial as there can be other conditions that mimic ADHD and require different treatment. Medication can be a helpful tool but finding the right medication and dosage may require trial and error.
Embracing neurodiversity and individual strengths
Rather than striving to overcome or suppress ADHD, it is important to embrace neurodiversity and recognize the strengths that come with it. ADHD brains have unique perspectives and strengths that can contribute to different fields and professions. Accepting oneself and working with the strengths can lead to success without the need to conform to neurotypical standards or feel ashamed for having ADHD. Strategies, accommodations, and support systems can be developed to navigate daily challenges and capitalize on individual strengths.
Navigating the challenges of medication
Finding the right medication for ADHD can be a trial-and-error process. Stimulant medications are commonly prescribed, but they may not work for everyone or can cause side effects. It is important to maintain open communication with the doctor and describe how the medication is affecting you. Dosage adjustments and non-stimulant alternatives may be considered if stimulant medications are not well-tolerated or effective. The process of finding the right medication can be complex, but it is worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
Building a supportive and accessible world
Creating a supportive and accessible environment for individuals with ADHD is essential. This includes recognizing that ADHD is not a personal or moral failing but a neurodevelopmental difference. Accommodations, understanding, and empathy from society can help individuals with ADHD thrive. It is crucial to challenge stigmas, advocate for improved healthcare access, and foster neurodiversity to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed and contribute their unique strengths.
The Importance of Accommodations and Support for Executive Function Issues
When individuals have executive function issues, finding soothing or exciting activities to engage in while working can be helpful. Examples include chewing gum, listening to music, or watching action movies. Fidget toys and other supportive tools, like fidget jewelry, water bottles with built-in pill organizers, and shirts with empowering messages, can also aid in focusing. Taking regular breaks, especially on weekends, can boost productivity. Using tools like the Time Timer or the Pomodoro method can assist in managing time and increasing efficiency.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success in Writing with ADHD
Writing a book as a writer with ADHD can be daunting, but it is achievable with careful planning and focus. Breaking down the writing process into smaller, manageable tasks, such as writing 600 words a day, can alleviate anxiety. Setting a timer for work intervals, accompanied by brief breaks to read novels or engage in soothing activities, helps maintain concentration. Understanding personal limitations and making necessary adaptations, such as using medication or finding alternative methods like dictation, enhances writing success. Accepting ADHD as a unique cognitive operating system, rather than a character flaw, is crucial for self-acceptance and personal growth.
Did Part 1 leave you informed and now you need a pep talk? Get ready for an absolute banger of an episode with 5 experts: René Brooks of BlackGirlLostKeys.com, TEDTalk speaker and How to ADHD YouTuber Jessica McCabe and neuroscientist Jahla Osborne of University of Michigan. What is it like to get diagnosed? How do you know which medication – if any – is right for you? Why is there such a spike in ADHD diagnoses during the pandemic? Autism and ADHD: what’s the deal? What accommodations should a person ask for? How can you have a strong relationship with one (or more) ADHD brains? What if your boyfriend juggles flaming swords for fun? Sure there are tips and tricks, but get ready for the pep talk and self-acceptance honestly everyone needs to hear. Plus: two cameos from past Ologists: Dr. Tiara Moore (Forensic Ecology) and Dr. Adam Becker (Quantum Ontology). Oh, and how this relates to Alie’s own Dadbrain. HERE WE GO.
