What is ADHD?

ADHD is like having a racecar brain*. That’s a stick shift. On surface streets.

It can be the most frustrating thing in the world, or the best (if you know how to drive it!) If you don’t know you have ADHD, you may look around you at all the other cars that are driving “normally” down the road. You may think to yourself, why are they able to go so fast, when I keep stalling?!?

When you learn that your car operates a little differently than most, you are able to get the most out of the impressive engine. In the meantime, you stall. A lot. This may cause you to question if you are a good driver, if you have been given faulty equipment, or if you should even be allowed on the road!

When you realize that you can’t compare yourself to typical cars that run on automatic, you start to realize what you have been equipped with. You have a roll-cage, because, let’s face it—you may crash a bit more often! You have an impressive engine that can go for miles. Having a stick shift ultimately gives you more control, but learning to use it can take time!

Buckle up, and enjoy the ride!

*Idea adapted from “Delivered from Distraction” by Edward Hallowell, M.D., and John Ratey, M.D. 

The start of something wonderful

Hello! The idea to start this blog came to me back in November, but in true ADHD fashion we are starting in January! Never mind you that I couldn't remember if my blog was "lifewithadultADHD" or "livingwithadultADHD" (livingwithadultADHD was already taken!), when I finally realized which one was MY blog, I realized I had forgotten my password!

This blog was created with the purpose of sharing my story. I hope that doesn't sound too egocentric! My hope is that by sharing all aspects of my story: from growing up through the time I was diagnosed, and since that time, I can help others who are struggling. I will be discussing various aspects of how ADHD has affected my life, including biologically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually.

I will be creating a series of posts describing these aspects both from a personal and research perspective. If you have any specific questions, feel free to leave a comment, or e-mail me!