I’ve written a decent amount over the years about our need to redefine the basic concept of ADHD. I generally feel that the way it is defined in medical circles is far too narrow and exclusive rather than inclusive of how those of us with ADHD experience it. It would be great if the medical world listened to the patients and try better to understand the patient experience.
I’ve been doing this for 15 years. And I’ve had ADD for almost 48 years. And I am still pleasantly surprised once in a while when a client describes a symptom, or an experience, or an ADHD related feeling in a way that I’ve never heard before or never thought to articulate in that particular way. In this case, it was even more delightful when this description of ADHD came from a clients five-year-old daughter.
This happened with a client yesterday. And I would definitely file it under the heading of, self-awareness is priceless, and it can come at any age. Apparently this smart and articulate self-aware little girl said the other day, “mommy, my brain is wiggly.” Brilliant! I have never heard anyone so accurately describe the feeling of internal hyperactivity, restlessness, under stimulation, psychic squirmyness that comes with ADHD that happens behind the scenes.
Remember that wisdom and knowledge doesn’t have to come from someone with an MD or a PhD. It doesn’t even always have to come from an adult.