What is ADHD and how does impact the brain?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that starts in childhood and is increasingly diagnosed in adults after being overlooked in their younger years. In the past, teachers and practitioners often lacked the training for early detection of ADHD. As a result, children were frequently labeled as lazy, daydreamers, or hyper instead of being identified with the real problem.

Adults with ADHD share frustrating symptoms that can disrupt various aspects of life, from relationships to professional careers. One of the main complaints ADHD’ers have is it's effect on their executive functioning skills. After managing known or unknown ADHD tendencies for their whole life, adults with ADHD have created workarounds to adapt, yet their ADHD continues to interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. From a neurological standpoint, the ADHD brain shows differences in structure and function compared to non-ADHD brains. Key areas of the brain such as the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in executive functions like planning and impulse control, are often underactive. Chemically, ADHD is linked to imbalances in neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals play crucial roles in attention, motivation and reward processing, explaining why individuals with ADHD may struggle.
Struggles Adults face with ADHD
Adults with ADHD face a unique set of challenges. Sleep difficulties are common, as the ADHD brain often has trouble winding down at night, leading to irregular sleep patterns and chronic fatigue. Planning and prioritizing tasks can feel overwhelming due to impaired executive functioning, making it hard to organize activities or meet deadlines. Mood and anxiety issues are prevalent, often stemming from the constant stress of managing symptoms and the fear of failure. These issues show up frequently for those who are overachievers and are working extremely hard to manage their ADHD. Procrastination is another significant hurdle for some; ADHD’ers may notice they delay tasks and wait until the deadline is at their doorstep to complete the job. This increases stress and anxiety and can spike emotions. Finally, ADHD’ers feel deeply. Intense feelings can be hard to regulate, complicating interpersonal relationships and self-perception.
The unique strengths of Adults with ADHD

Despite the challenges, adults with ADHD possess unique strengths. Many individuals with ADHD exhibit high levels of creativity, often thinking outside the box and approaching problems with innovative solutions. Their ability to hyper-focus on tasks that interest them allows for deep dives into projects, leading to impressive bursts of productivity and thorough understanding of complex subjects. Additionally, ADHD’ers often display resilience, having learned to navigate a world that doesn’t always cater to their cognitive style. This resilience, combined with a high level of energy and enthusiasm, can make them dynamic and passionate contributors in both professional and personal settings. Their tendency to be spontaneous and adaptable can also be a great asset in fast-paced or changing environments. Recognizing and harnessing these strengths can help adults with ADHD thrive and turn struggles into powerful assets.
How counselling can help
The encouraging news is that no matter how overwhelming it may seem, the challenges posed by attention deficit disorder can be overcome. Counselling can be a transformative resource for adults with ADHD, providing strategies and support tailored to individual needs. One of the primary benefits is fostering self-compassion, helping individuals understand that their struggles are not due to laziness or lack of effort, but rather the unique wiring of their brains. This shift can decrease feelings of shame and self-criticism. Counsellors can also work with clients to activate motivation by breaking tasks into manageable steps and creating structured routines. Improving executive functioning skills, such as organization and time management, is another crucial aspect of therapy. Noticing sleep patterns and setting realistic goals to establish a healthy sleep routine can significantly improve overall well-being. Additionally, counsellors assist in goal setting, helping clients to set and achieve realistic objectives that enhance their daily functioning. Overall, counselling can help adults with ADHD recognize and harness their unique strengths, set up their days for success, and appreciate their distinctive minds.
By understanding ADHD and implementing effective strategies through improved self-awareness, adults with ADHD can navigate their challenges more effectively, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Embracing the uniqueness of the ADHD brain and utilizing tailored approaches to manage its impact can empower individuals to thrive despite their struggles.
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