When it Comes to Brain Functioning, Who Says That Typical is Always Better?

In my last article, I explained one way that an ADHD brain differs from a neurotypical brain. Scientists believe that people with ADHD don’t have the same level of neurotransmitters as the rest of us do, which often interrupts their ability to process information completely. This comes from the disorder perspective of ADHD.

Dr. William Dodson, a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in working with adults with ADHD suggests that we view ADHD from a more positive perspective. In his article, Secrets of Your ADHD Brain 

(https://www.additudemag.com/secrets-of-the-adhd-brain/), he theorizes that the ADHD brain has some definite advantages to go along with the well known disadvantages. So why not utilize those strengths?

ADHD Super Powers

Dr. Dodson explains that the ADHD nervous system is “a unique and special creation that regulates attention and emotions in different ways than the nervous system in those without the condition… It is a nervous system that works well using its own set of rules.”

You see, his patients point out that they don’t have a deficit of attention, rather they attend to everything, especially when unmedicated. And that can really muck things up. But they also have a super power. The ADHD brain is bright and creative and yes, able to hyper focus on tasks. When they’re in that hyper focused mode, all of those executive functions kick in and the world is their oyster. Instead of being applauded for this super power, they are often accused of being lazy or uncaring. Why? It may go something like this. Well John, if you can concentrate on your video games for two hours, you’re capable of focusing on getting the tax returns done. Anger and resentment follow. But here’s the real kicker. This super power, this ability to hyper focus, comes and goes throughout the day. That ability to pay attention is inconsistent.

Do you have to play by the rules?

What about that rulebook? Dr. Dodson explains that the neurotypical brain is able to motivate itself based on two considerations. The first is importance. People ask, “How important is it to me and to those around me to complete this task?” The second is consequence. What is the potential reward or punishment for taking action? 

Here’s an example: Joe’s boss tells him to enter information about sales leads in a spreadsheet in order to track progress toward his sales goals. Joe thinks his time should be spent pursuing those leads instead of filling out a form, but he is motivated to do it because his boss thinks it’s important and he wants to keep his job. If Joe had ADHD, he may struggle to motivate himself even if he really loves filling out spreadsheets and knew the consequences. It’s probable that he would eventually complete it once the deadline approached and the pressure built. But, where’s that super power when he needs it?!

The reality is that our schools and jobs are built around  other people’s ideas and expectations of what is important, with an emphasis on getting things done (time management). Dr Dodson says that the ADHD nervous system just doesn’t respond to those considerations.

There are alternatives

Enter the alternate rulebook. In addition to using medication, Dr. Dodson suggest that his clients keep a record of the times when they get hyper focused or in “the zone”. They can then look for strategies hidden in those moments by asking why that task was so engaging. Were they curious or challenged by it? Were they competing against themselves or someone else? These insights and the strategies they spawn allow people with ADHD to access that super power that people with typical brains envy and play by their own set of rules.

Suzanne Leon is a Certified Professional Coach who works with people affected by ADHD/ADD. Visit her website to learn more about the services she provides.