ADD/ADHD

There can be so much shame, guilt, sadness and even embarrassment about talking about problems with which we are struggling. Together, we create a supportive space where we talk about the hard parts of the experience, but also illuminate the skills and abilities we have generated to respond to those problems. Where there once was a single problem story, we build many narratives of possibilities, ones that ground your well earned knowledges of life and ways of living.

I know intimately the difficulties that ADD injects into our lives, and have a lived experience of its effects.

I was 26 years old, sitting in Psych class, so confident that I’d firmly understood the instructions for an assignment, the date things were due, the rubric for assessment. I was clear about what had to be done. So why would I double check when I was so positive and clear? Well, my attitude didnt fully align with my knowing. It turns out I didn’t actually understand and I had written down the wrong due date! So then come the apologies, asking for forgiveness and the ole’ inner critic and negative self talk! It was frustrating to say the least. I still have to recognize these tendencies. But over the years, with support,  I have built up systems, strategies, routines and rituals to help reduce the frustration and negative self talk ADHD brings into my life.

So you are not alone! We are firm believers that we are some of the most vibrant, brilliant human beings on the planet, boldly adventuring together around the problems stories that get in the way of seeing our truest potential!

Types of ADHD

There are three types of ADHD:

1. Inattentive

Inattentive ADHD is what’s usually meant when someone uses the term ADD. This means a person shows enough symptoms of inattention (or easy distractibility) but isn’t hyperactive or impulsive.

2. Hyperactive/impulsive

This type occurs when a person has symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity but not inattention.

3. Combined

Combined ADHD is when a person has symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity

Inattention

Inattention, or trouble focusing, is one symptom of ADHD. A doctor may diagnose a child as inattentive if the child:

• is easily distracted
• is forgetful, even in daily activities
• is unable to give close attention to details in school work or other activities and makes careless mistakes
• has trouble keeping attention on tasks or activities
• ignores a speaker, even when spoken to directly
• doesn’t follow instructions
• fails to finish schoolwork or chores
• loses focus or is easily side-tracked
• has trouble with organization
• dislikes and avoids tasks that require long periods of mental effort, such as homework
• loses vital things needed for tasks and activities

Hyperactivity and impulsivity

A doctor may diagnose a child as hyperactive or impulsive if the child:

• appears to be always on the go
• talks excessively
• has severe difficulty waiting for their turn
• squirms in their seat, taps their hands or feet, or fidgets
• gets up from a seat when expected to remain seated
• runs around or climbs in inappropriate situations
• is unable to quietly play or take part in leisure activities
• blurts out an answer before someone finishes asking a question
• intrudes on and interrupts others constantly