Take control of your own life, but also take control of your ADHD - it is a part of who you are
Five ways to take back control
Become well-informed
Understand what ADHD is, and what treatment does. Read, watch and listen as much as you can. There’s a reason that psychoeducation (support through the provision of information about the condition) has been proven to be an effective treatment type!
For other young peoples’ stories, why not start with the graphic novel (pictured on the left) Raised on Ritalin, the TED Talk by Jessica McCabe, or our podcast series ADHD in Isolation?
Image from Raised on Ritalin, by Tyler Page
Know where to seek help
This is a security thing. You’ll struggle to find a single person with ADHD who doesn’t crash sometimes. Identify a support network and places to go for help before you actually need it.
Stay connected with family and friends
Many of those with ADHD struggle withe relationships with parents, siblings, and even friends. This can result in disproportionate numbers of those with ADHD rejecting their families and friends. Do not fall into this trap! It is important that you do everything that you can to maintain those relationships; do not do this alone!
Understand and protect your mental health
Poor mental health is extremely common in those with ADHD from the early years. Adolescence (with all the changes to your brain and environment) can exacerbate existing mental health difficulties and introduce new ones.
Poor mental health can lead to far more serious problems if steps are not taken early; these include:
drug and alcohol abuse
homelessness
criminality
serious psychiatric disorders
Harness your strengths
Ever heard of the term ‘islands of competence’? Those with low confidence report that they feel as though they are not good at anything at all (i.e. they perceive a “sea of incompetence”).
This is a delusional feeling; everyone has their talents! Find things that you are good at, focus on these, and develop your skills.
Soon your island of competence will begin to grow and you may even find new islands to focus on. This is a process of building both confidence and resilience.