ADHD Isn’t About Lack of Focus
People assume that anyone with ADHD has difficulty focusing. That’s not entirely true. The truth is that we’re great at focusing, we just aren’t very good at choosing the right things to focus on. While most people might be focusing on the words that a friend is speaking while conversing, we’re often focusing on something else entirely, such as the shape of the clouds behind him, or the odd popping noise that your ears make when you open your mouth just right. Focus isn’t the issue. Finding the right things to focus on is the issue.
There’s No Correlation Between Intelligence and ADHD
Some assume that those with ADHD are stupid, or have some sort of learning disorder. That’s not true. The condition affects everyone from doctors, to Harvard professors and everyone in between. There has never been any proof that ADHD occurs more commonly in those of below, average, or above average
intelligence.
ADHD Makes it Hard to Stick to Schedules
Here’s another one that’s tough for most people to wrap their heads around. Most people go to bed at a certain time of night, wake up at a certain time during the day, go to the gym, eat breakfast, hit the office, etc. all on a particular schedule or slight variations of a pretty common schedule. Those affected with ADHD are often very different in this regard. Try as we may, most of us have real difficulty staying on any sort of schedule, whether it’s eating, working out, or even sleeping. In fact, there are multiple studies that show those affected with ADHD are often stricken with sleep disorders, such as insomnia, or eating disorders, such as anorexia.
ADHD Isn’t A “Kids” Disorder
I don’t need to say much about this one, but you should know that ADHD isn’t something that only affects children, nor is it something that you “grow out of” as you mature.
Living with ADHD is difficult, and the only thing that might be harder than the actual condition is dealing with people’s perceptions of the condition. It’s a constant battle, and one that I don’t particularly like taking part in. Next time you’re interacting with someone that has ADHD, show a little compassion, and maybe educate yourself on the sorts of problems that they face every day. Whether it’s roommates, co-workers, friends or family, a little knowledge on the subject goes a long way.
