Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects around 1 in 20 people. An ADHD brain grows and functions in a different way to that of a neurotypical person. It is a genetic condition; therefore, it is probable that an individual with ADHD will have other family members with neurological conditions.
The Core Elements of ADHD
The three core elements of ADHD are Inattention, Hyperactivity, and Impulsivity. According to CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), not all individuals with ADHD will display characteristics of all three of the aforementioned core elements. Generally, evidence of characteristics related to two core elements is required to obtain a diagnosis. The extent to which these core characteristics impair a person’s life determines an ADHD diagnosis.
The 30 Per Cent Delay in Executive Function
A defining feature of the ADHD brain is a significant lag in the development of executive function skills. Research highlighted by ADDitude Magazine suggests that the ADHD brain often experiences about a 30 per cent delay in the development of these skills compared to neurotypical peers.This delay impacts the “management system” of the brain—specifically the ability to plan, regulate emotions, and maintain focus.
ADHD can be more challenging in childhood, and as the brain matures into early adulthood, an individual can learn the strategies needed to work with their ADHD brain. However, adults with late diagnoses may only now be finding out how to best work with their brains. This prolonged period of unrecognised ADHD challenges could have implications for a person’s mental health and life choices.
Secondary Characteristics in the Workplace
There are secondary characteristics caused by the core elements of ADHD that can cause adults with ADHD to find some lived contexts extra challenging. These contexts can vary; for example, in a workplace context, secondary characteristics include:
- Inattention: A lack of organisation and difficulty following through on tasks.
- Impulsivity: Making quick decisions about organising projects that are very difficult to implement.
- Hyperactivity: Fidgeting and shaking legs during presentations and meetings.
These behaviours could all lead to significant challenges for an individual in a professional setting. Consequently, this can lead to a feeling of embarrassment and shame. Maté (2011) stated that adults with ADHD often feel a lot of shame and guilt due to receiving a number of “paper cuts” along the way. It, therefore, is beneficial for people with ADHD to understand their strengths and their areas for development so that they can play to their strengths and not feel guilt and shame with regard to what they find cognitively challenging.
Co-occurring Conditions and Neurodiversity
ADHD can co-occur with other neurological conditions, and it is common for people with ADHD to demonstrate characteristics of Autism, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia. It is, therefore, important to note that each person with ADHD has their own unique set of needs and a distinct way of processing the world around them.
ADHD Strengths
Although there are challenges associated with ADHD, and these challenges can vary between individuals based on their own lived experiences, the skills and talents that are associated with ADHD can supersede these challenges. With decisiveness due to impulsivity, creativity due to inattention, and energy and passion as a result of hyperactivity, people who harness their ADHD may see it as a superpower.
By helping individuals with ADHD understand their brains and educating others about the condition, ADHD may be seen as a different perspective and unique set of skills instead of a challenge overcome and an issue to deal with.
References
ADDitude Magazine. The ADHD Brain: Executive Function and the 30% Rule#
CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). Understanding ADHD: Symptoms and Diagnosis.
Maté, G. (2011). Scattered Minds: The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder. Vintage Canada.