I've gotten asked for advice many times recently about how to help kids with ADHD. Whew. It's not easy but man is it a HUGE blessing. But really, is parenting every easy? All kids come with their own unique challenges and blessings and our job is to help them become the best version of them. And to ask for LOTS of forgiveness in the process.

There is so much misinformation out there about ADHD and SO much shame. Way too much shame!

What is ADHD? 

ADHD is a neurological disorder that impacts the parts of the brain that help us plan, focus on, and execute tasks. There are 3 subtypes of ADHD and it can present very differently based on age, gender, personality and secondary concerns. The cause is unknown but it's highly genetic and linked to levels of dopamine in the brain. 

What are the Symptoms?

Inattention

Lack of focus

Poor time management

Weak impulse control

Exaggerated emotions

Hyperfocus

Hyperactivity

Executive dysfunction

Not everyone has ALL of these...

Dear Friend,

My ADHD impacts so much of me and even I have a hard time making sense of it. As my friend, I think there's a few things you should know to better understand my unique brain. These aren't excuses but I do think they'll shed light on how you experience me.

What is ADHD? 

"ADHD is a lifelong, neurobehavioral, genetic syndrome that leads to a structural, chemical, communication, and arousal differences in the brain that subsequently impact what is called the "executive functioning" system of the brain." Sari Solden and Michelle Frank in Women with ADHD

Inattentive ADHD: Struggle to get going or activate to to do things, forgetful, disorganized, zoning out, hard to manage time, and emotional sensitivity.

Impulsive ADHD: Emotionally and mentally hyperactive, hard time sitting still, impulsive, interrupt others frequently, and often have an inner sense of restlessness.

Combo ADHD: A little bit of both above and have many characteristics of the inattentive type but...