ADHD Is Not a Negative Label
One reason parents are often resistant to getting their child tested for ADHD is the fear that their child will be given a label. This is tragic. The ADHD label is not something to be feared. It is not a negative. Yes, there are struggles that come with ADHD, but the label itself does not doom an individual. On the contrary, seeking an ADHD diagnosis can be beneficial.
The ADHD Label Does Not Define You
Who you are has nothing to do with your age, gender, sexual orientation, shoe size, race, religious beliefs, or any other way to label or categorize a person. Who you are is you. There is no one like you. You are unique. Your identity is not ADHD. You are you. ADHD is something you have. It is not who you are.
The ADHD Label Identifies the Problem
They say the first step in solving a problem is admitting there is a problem. Admitting that ADHD may be at play is the first step in managing ADHD. Once you get tested and receive a diagnosis, you then know what the issue is. This gives you the ability to attack the problem with a more informed strategy.
The ADHD Label Is Empowering and Brings Freedom
As mentioned above, an ADHD diagnosis reveals what the issue is. This allows you to attack ADHD’s challenges with an informed strategy, rather than blindly moving forward. This knowledge is empowering. You know what is happening in your brain.
Furthermore, you now have the freedom to use unconventional approaches in your daily life. ADHD brains are wired differently. If you have ADHD, you will have to do things differently than everyone else. Your brain is not like everyone else’s brains. Therefore, it makes no sense to try to do things their way. Do it your way. Your way will work better.
Another freedom gained from an ADHD diagnosis is the freedom from shame. The longer you go without an ADHD diagnosis, the more you will struggle. The longer you struggle, the more shame builds up. The more shame you have, the more negative psychological consequences of shame will build up. This is a recipe for disaster. Break free from this pattern, and embrace the ADHD label.
The ADHD Label Comes with a Community
When you are diagnosed with ADHD, you enter a wonderful, caring community. ADHDers love each other. We are a compassionate bunch, and we love meeting others who have the same struggles. Some of the best conversations I have ever had have been with other ADHDers. It is so refreshing to be around those who get it, who know what it is like to have ADHD. I had an incredible time at the 2018 International Conference on ADHD, and I cannot wait to go again next year. The main reason for this is the people. I love the ADHD community. I think you will love them, too.