Bravely Connected

On this week’s blog I’m thrilled to bring you a conversation that’s close to my heart. We’re diving into the world of ADHD in adults—a topic that’s often overshadowed by discussions about children with ADHD. As someone who’s neurodiverse myself, I know firsthand the challenges and strengths that come with it. My special guest today is Maria, an expert in coaching adults with ADHD. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or someone navigating ADHD yourself, this discussion is packed with valuable insights.

ADHD in Adults: A Late Realization for Many

Maria points out that many adults discover they have ADHD later in life, often after their children are diagnosed. This late realization is common because parents start recognizing symptoms in themselves while seeking help for their kids. Symptoms like difficulty staying focused, trouble with working memory (recalling steps or instructions), emotional regulation challenges, and something less known—time blindness—are all telltale signs. People with ADHD often struggle with time management because they lack an internal clock, which can make staying on schedule and keeping appointments particularly difficult.

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis

If you’re an adult suspecting you have ADHD, Maria strongly recommends getting a full assessment from a qualified professional. Whether it’s a doctor, nurse practitioner, or psychologist, a comprehensive evaluation will help you understand how your brain works and provide relief in knowing why certain challenges persist. But as Maria emphasizes, diagnosis is just the beginning—knowing you have ADHD is the first step toward developing strategies to manage it.

The Medication Question: Is It Right for You?

One of the biggest concerns adults have after an ADHD diagnosis is whether they’ll need medication. Maria explains that this is a deeply personal choice and not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some find great relief with medication, while others experience side effects that outweigh the benefits. ADHD medication often involves a trial-and-error process, adjusting types and dosages under medical supervision until the right balance is found. However, it’s important to note that a significant minority of people—about 15-20%—don’t respond well to medication. For these individuals, other approaches might be more effective.

Beyond Medication: Building Skills and Strengths

Regardless of whether you choose medication, there are many ways to cope with ADHD. Maria highlights the importance of building skills tailored to your unique strengths and challenges. ADHD is a multifaceted condition, and managing it requires a personalized approach. One key element is understanding your strengths—something many adults with ADHD struggle to identify after years of focusing on their weaknesses. Maria encourages clients to scaffold their challenges with strategies while also leveraging their natural abilities to thrive.

The Impact of Negativity and the Role of Trauma

A startling statistic Maria shares is that children with ADHD receive about 20,000 pieces of negative feedback by age 10 compared to their peers. This constant stream of criticism can lead to negative self-talk that persists into adulthood, especially if compounded by trauma. It’s crucial to address this negativity and recognize that ADHD is part of the broader spectrum of neurodiversity. The goal isn’t to fit into a neurotypical mold but to understand and work with the unique ways your brain operates.

Rewiring the ADHD Brain Through Understanding

Maria and I also discuss the concept of “rewiring” the brain. Just as negative experiences and a lack of attunement can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, positive reinforcement and understanding can help mitigate them. For many adults, learning about their ADHD and receiving support can lead to significant improvements in emotional regulation and overall well-being.

Conclusion: Thriving with ADHD

The message we want to leave you with is that ADHD is not a life sentence of struggle. With the right strategies, support, and mindset, individuals with ADHD can lead fulfilling, successful lives. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or someone with ADHD, remember that understanding is the first step toward thriving.

If you’re interested in learning more about ADHD coaching or Maria’s upcoming course, email me here as she has a group coaching course coming up, AND she is one of the professionals in my new Bravely Connected community you will have access to. If you want to be the first to know when that is launched this fall, email me here. Let’s continue to support and uplift each other in this journey of neurodiversity.