Does Derpy Hooves have ADHD?

Moms, is your daughter a fan of Derpy Hooves? Derpy is a relatively new My Little Pony who has quite a following. Some people suspect she might have ADHD. You see she doesn’t quite fit in, sometimes she’s a little clumsy, but she always has a heart of gold.

See what we mean? While we have no idea of whether or not Derpy has ADHD, she could make a good mascot for our ADHD girls. After all, in Ponyville everyone is loved, accepted and an important part of the community!

It’s no laughing matter, however, that girls with ADHD often struggle. Girls are often underdiagnosed because their hyperactivity and other symptoms can look different than boys’ symptoms. Plus, frequently they are the quiet, inattentive type and don’t make any waves in the classroom.

9 important traits to be aware of in girls with ADHD

1. Hyperactivity in girls can appear as being hyper-talkative or …
2. hyper-reactive (more emotional).
3. ADHD girls have greater problems with disorganization than boys.
4. Depression and anxiety are symptoms to watch for in older girls with ADHD.
5. ADHD coaching can help girls with ADHD learn what works to be successful in school and in life.
6. Under diagnosis due to symptoms that don’t echo the male standard for ADHD
7. Hyperactivity presenting as talkativeness and emotional behavior instead of the classic “propelled by a motor.”
8. Despite having fewer visible symptoms in adulthood, girls do not outgrow ADHD and continue to need special services as they enter early adulthood..
9. Girls with histories of ADHD are more prone to internalize their struggles and feelings of failure – a development that can manifest itself in impulsively inflicting self-injury (such as cutting) and even attempted suicide.

Despite having fewer visible symptoms in adulthood, girls do not outgrow ADHD and continue to need special services as they enter early adulthood.

Studies have shown that coaching is an effective way to address the symptoms of ADHD and other Executive Function impairments (ex. time management, procrastination, disorganization and impulsivity). Working together with a coach, your daughter expect to feel less stressed and more on top of her goals.

Right now Edge Foundation is offering a free coaching session to get the ball rolling. [Offer expires 10/15/13.] Why not check it out today?