People with ADHD have a lifelong condition. Fortunately, symptoms change over time. Weaknesses can transform into abilities beyond their wildest dreams.
Attentiveness, impulsivity, and behavior are common symptoms of ADHD. People with this disorder need to gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of themselves. They should be ready to combat false impressions from others.
To improve outcomes, people with ADHD should focus on positive qualities. Benefits often result using holistic strategies. Looking at the person as a whole, strategies should center on building interests, learning styles, and many talents.
ADHD can be complex. It cannot be seen or felt, but we can surely see the effects of it. Unfortunately, it can be embarrassing for both parents and children.
Empowerment begins at home. Having a positive self-identity is an important first step. Everyone should work to recognize inner capabilities. Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences is a good resource. Try repeatedly until you discover solutions.
- Provide possible role models.
- Identify strengths and abilities.
- Use effective communication strategies (model).
- Find time when most alert.
- Eat a balanced breakfast.
The symptoms of ADHD are often addressed through a decidedly non-holistic approaches. Treating the person as a whole is critical to long-term changes. Teacher-centered instruction often ignores the specific needs of challenges with exposed symptoms. Addressing individual faults do little to make overall changes. See each characteristic as part of interconnected pieces.
School presents additional challenges for teens with ADHD. Movement is often restricted, not allowing for the release of excess energy. Lack of focus and attention result in increasing symptoms. Modifying strategies that mediate behavior benefits both the student and classmates.
- Incorporate hands-on activities.
- Provide project based environments.
- Construct new meanings.
- Include cutting-edge technologies.
- Focus on self-talk skills.
ADHD is only one part of who the individual is. They can pay attention to what’s of interest. Additionally, they can learn to focus on other things as well.
Music is a special gift that can work with emotions. It’s important to select the right kind of music to fulfill specific needs. Best of all, it’s an unexpected technique for modifying behavior.
Depending on how you view them, characteristics of ADHD can be negative or positive. Convey the positive by playing word games. Provide empowering language that means the same thing.
Talkative
- Friendly
- Vocal
- Articulate
Hyperactive
- Busy
- Energized
- Motivated
Bossy
- Leadership skills
- Takes charge
- Organizer
Stubborn
- Persistent
- Spunky
- Never gives up
Impulsive
- Spontaneous
- Hurried
- Speedy
Impulsive
- Spontaneous
- Hurried
- Speedy
Thousands of studies tell us what people with ADHD cannot do. Few tell us what they can do well. Remember, their uniqueness makes them awesome!
Challenge question: What makes you feel like Super Man facing criminals?