Much of what we hear about ADHD and ADD has to do with its negative impacts – the affected individual’s difficulty focusing, paying attention, or controlling impulses. However, being diagnosed with ADHD does not have to be bad news. Each symptom has both a negative and a positive aspect. Identifying and using these “mirror traits” can help you reach your full potential.
For many children with ADHD, sitting still is a near impossible task. Their constant physical activity can be frustrating for parents and difficult for teachers when a child’s hyperactivity disrupts a class. But there are a number of simple techniques parents can use to help their ADHD child harness their energy and accomplish their goals.
For adults with ADHD, listening can be a challenge. Inattention and being easily distracted are two of the symptoms of ADHD that make focusing on a conversation or a lecture doubly difficult. Simple strategies, combined with practice and greater awareness, can help you improve your listening skills.
While many celebrities are reticent to talk about their learning challenges, Ty Pennington has been vocal about his ADHD diagnosis. He is proof that no matter how strong the symptoms of ADHD might be, they can be harnessed into a creative and fulfilling career.
While there hasn’t been a great deal of conclusive research on diets that improve ADHD symptoms, there are some foods you can eat which are good for the brain and could help make your symptoms better. A healthful diet may reduce symptoms of ADHD by reducing exposure to artificial colors and additives and improving intake of omega-3 fats and micronutrients.
Recent research has linked ADHD to a variety of sleep problems in children. There are a number of simple steps you can take to help your ADHD child create better sleep patterns. By working with your child and your child’s physician, you can create a sound sleep environment to help your child get the sleep they need to succeed with ADHD.
Getting homework assignments done can be a huge struggle for kids with ADHD. It is important as homework problems are often a reason kids with ADHD fail in school. However, with some planning, you can help make homework less of a struggle for both you and your child.
The symptoms of adult ADHD – e.g., trouble focusing, difficulty prioritizing tasks, and lateness – can make work life challenging to say the least. That is why choosing or transitioning to the right career is doubly important if you have adult ADHD. A diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that your work life is doomed to being a constant struggle. You can identify the type of work that leverages your ADHD strengths so you can get the most out of your career.
When you have ADHD or other executive functioning challenges, you may feel restless, impulsive and have difficulty paying attention. That can make managing your time much harder. There are skills you can learn to help overcome these challenges and be more productive with your time.
When most people occasionally bounce a check or forget to pay a bill, they may put it down to forgetfulness or a busy work schedule. However, for adults with ADHD, managing money can often be a constant struggle. Trouble with planning, organizing and self-control are the opposite of what it takes to successfully manage your personal finances. Having ADHD does not mean you are destined for financial problems. The key is creating a simple plan and put it in place, step by step.
