You Mean I'm not Lazy, Stupid, or Crazy?! is a title of a book written for ADHD adults by Kate Kelley and Peggy Ramundo. We recommend checking out the book - but this post is not about the book. This post is about getting an ADHD diagnosis, and how powerful it can be to learn about the impact of ADHD symptoms on your life.
In honor of Mental Health Week, we wanted to share the story of Peter Shankman.
Peter is a CEO, author, speaker, and all around impressive guy. Peter is also an individual diagnosed with ADHD. Not only that, he's learned to use his diagnosis to his advantage, rather than a disability. In fact, he's used his strengths and managed his challenges in a way that has led to much of his success!
Check out this article by Rick Green with a new quiz to help you rule out having ADHD. It's a funny post that gives a different perspective on life with ADHD vs. our "neurotypical peers."
A few highlights:
The idea that sugar can make ADHD symptoms worse is prevalent, but how true is it? Right now, it seems like the majority of the research out there has not supported this theory. Yes, you can find a study here and there about a connection between a high sugar diet and hyperactivity. But, most of the medical industry maintains that there isn't a clear link between the two.
In the article I have ADHD - Curb your Enthusiasm, Rick Green talks frankly about ADHD awareness and stigma. As a community, we've come a long way in understanding ADHD and reducing the negativity around it, but it seems we still have a long way to go.
"You just need to try harder": This can be a damaging phrase for an ADHD child or adult. It can imply that we're lazy - and for many, the opposite is more often than not the case. We're often working harder than everybody else on the inside! With ADHD the intentions are often there, but the follow through is what we struggle with. This isn't because we aren't trying hard- it really is a brain difference!
