Individuals with ADHD often report being very sensitive to all sorts of stimuli in the environment, especially noise. They can experience large swings of over-stimulation followed by periods of emotional and physical depletion. Research is now beginning to uncover the source of this phenomenon and suggest how it can be controlled and harnessed for positive effect.
Often, people with ADHD are also highly sensitive to environmental stimuli. They may have a disproportionate reaction to sounds, smells, tactile sensations or certain visual stimuli. There are many benefits to high sensitivity, but the extra sensory load that accompanies this trait can be overwhelming if it is not understood and managed.
We all need an Executive Function Coach, but not because we have a disorder. We need an Executive Function Coach because facing the challenges of life competently requires us to continue to develop our decision-making repertoire. Everyone is working on one or more executive functioning skills. But no tutor can teach them. Teaching is not the delivery system for these skills; coaching is.
Executive Function Coach and Trainer Erin Wilson recently related this story about one of her 17 year old students. He had called her on a Friday evening. It was late, she was tired, but took the call. He told her he was in despair, standing on Seattle’s Aurora Bridge, ready to jump.
Children with ADHD can be just as caring as other kids. Their lack of impulse control and inattentiveness around other people can make it appear as if they don’t care what others think, feel or say. There are a number of things you can do to help strengthen empathy in your ADHD child.
Kids (and adults) with ADHD often need something to help them feel settled so they can sustain their attention and focus. So-called fidget toys are a way to accomplish this. These are gadgets that activate different sensory areas without being too disruptive to others. Fidget toys come in many types.
Recent research studies have begun to show the usefulness of mindfulness meditation in treating the symptoms of ADHD, especially in adults. A daily practice of mindfulness meditation can help with attention, reduce stress, improve mood and enhance aspects of executive functioning, and may contribute to better emotion regulation.
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.
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.
