The Bright Side of ADHD

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is often misunderstood and stigmatized in society. People with ADHD can sometimes be labeled as “lazy,” “unfocused,” or “disruptive,” which fails to capture the full picture of their experiences. While ADHD does come with challenges—such as difficulties with attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation—it also brings incredible strengths that are often overlooked. Creativity, spontaneity, resilience, and boundless energy are just a few of the positive traits commonly associated with ADHD.

As a pediatrician I have worked with countless families navigating the complex landscape of ADHD since 2012. Now at my new location, MemorialCare Medical Group – Lakewood, my passion lives on from seeing firsthand how deeply ADHD affects not just children, but entire families.

Every Child Should be Understood

I’ve witnessed the frustration of parents who want to support their child but feel lost, and I’ve seen the incredible potential in these kids when they are given the right tools and encouragement. Every child deserves to be understood and empowered, and that’s what drives me to help families embrace ADHD not as a limitation, but as a unique way of thinking that, when nurtured, can lead to remarkable success.

According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2022, about 7.1 million children and adolescents in the United States were diagnosed with ADHD, an increase of 1 million compared to 2016. By shifting the conversation away from deficits and toward neurodiverse strengths, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment—one where individuals with ADHD are empowered to thrive rather than struggle against a world that misunderstands them.

The central difference between people with ADHD and those who are neurotypical (meaning their brain functions in a more traditional way) is how their brain controls and process things. Child Mind Institute has shown that in children with ADHD, the prefrontal cortex in the brain matures more slowly than typically developing kids and they have more dopamine transporters.

While neurotypical individuals generally regulate these functions with ease, those with ADHD experience differences in three key areas:

1. Focus – Difficulty sustaining attention on mundane or repetitive tasks but an extraordinary ability to hyperfocus on subjects of interest.
2. Impulse Control – Acting on thoughts or feelings quickly, sometimes without pausing to consider the consequences.
3. Emotional Regulation – Experiencing emotions intensely, leading to rapid mood swings.

Because of these differences, people with ADHD may struggle in traditional settings like school or the workplace, where conformity and structured learning are valued over creativity and dynamic thinking. However, these same traits can be incredible assets when recognized and nurtured appropriately.

Misconceptions of ADHD

The most common misconception about those with ADHD is lack of focus. This can translate to the academics of students with ADHD with people believing they are unmotivated and do not want to succeed. This misconception can be detrimental because it undermines a child’s experience with ADHD and neglects their struggle.

Many individuals with ADHD experience something known as hyperfocus, a state in which they become so engrossed in a particular subject or task that they lose track of time and their surroundings. This is why a student with ADHD might struggle to complete homework but can spend hours mastering an instrument, painting, coding, or developing a new skill. This can be described as uncomfortable, restless sensations that propels those with ADHD to fidget and shift body positions. Emotional regulations may also be difficult, causing them swing from extreme moods. From heightening happiness to searing anger, this aspect of ADHD can make maintaining stable relationship challenging.

Unfortunately, without proper support, many children with ADHD grow up in environments that fail to recognize and nurture their strengths. Instead of being encouraged to follow their passions, they may face constant criticism for their difficulties in traditional settings. This can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and even depression—challenges that often persist into adulthood.

The Upside of ADHD

Despite the challenges ADHD presents, it comes with unique advantages that can be powerful tools for success. Individuals with ADHD tend to be:

• Creative Thinkers – They often approach problems from unique angles and think outside the box, leading to groundbreaking ideas and innovative solutions.
• High-Energy and Passionate – Their enthusiasm and drive can help them excel in entrepreneurship, entertainment, sports, and the arts.
• Resilient and Adaptable – Many individuals with ADHD overcome adversity and develop strong problem-solving skills, making them great leaders and risk-takers.
• Empathetic and Emotionally Intuitive – Their deep emotional experiences allow them to connect with others on a profound level, making them compassionate friends, caregivers, and team members.

One of the most crucial steps in supporting children with ADHD is changing the way we talk about it—both at home and in schools. The way we talk about ADHD shapes a child’s self-perception. The term “disorder” itself can feel negative, as though ADHD is something that needs to be “fixed.” But when we shift our perspective and recognize the advantages ADHD can bring, we empower children to embrace their unique abilities.

• Is your child imaginative? Encourage them to explore creative pursuits like writing, painting, or filmmaking.
• Do they love movement? Sports, dance, and outdoor activities can be great outlets for their energy.
• Are they drawn to technology? Many individuals with ADHD excel in coding, gaming, and digital media.

Reflecting on positive changes, whether in our daily habits or the way we support others, reminds me of the importance of creating environments where people can thrive. This is especially true in education—where feeling supported can make all the difference for a child’s growth and success.

When children feel accepted and encouraged, they are more likely to develop confidence and resilience—key traits for long-term success. Traditional teaching methods are not always well-suited for individuals with ADHD. Instead of trying to force them into rigid structures, consider strength-based interventions that highlight their natural talents. Instead of lectures or traditional classroom discussions, many individuals with ADHD learn far better by working with their hands or collaborating in group projects.

Why Parents Are Crucial for Kids with ADHD

Parents play a vital role in their child’s education, and working closely with teachers and school staff can make a significant difference in supporting children with ADHD. By collaborating with the school, parents can help create a learning environment that fosters their child’s strengths and sets them up for success. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Hands-on Learning: Many children with ADHD thrive in interactive and experiential environments. Parents can advocate for the use of visual aids, music, and movement-based activities to help maintain engagement in the classroom.
• Creative Outlets: Encouraging participation in art, music, and sports can provide healthy emotional and cognitive outlets, allowing children to channel their energy productively. Parents can work with the school to integrate these activities into their child’s routine.
• Positive Reinforcement: Instead of focusing on mistakes, rewarding effort and progress helps build self-confidence. Parents can collaborate with teachers to develop a system of positive reinforcement tailored to their child’s needs.
• Provide Choices: Offering different ways to demonstrate mastery—such as a written essay, oral report, or hands-on project—can make learning more accessible. Parents should work regularly with the school to create an individualized learning plan that not only reviews goals but also determines the best methods for their child to succeed while meeting educational benchmarks.

By maintaining open communication with educators and advocating for tailored learning strategies, parents can help their child develop the confidence and skills needed to thrive in school and beyond. When children with ADHD receive the right support, they can discover their potential and develop skills that align with their strengths—turning what are often seen as challenges into unique advantages.

Where ADHD and Emotions Converge

One of those strengths is emotional depth. While emotional volatility is often viewed as a downside of ADHD, it can also be an incredible asset. Many individuals with ADHD experience emotions more intensely than others, allowing them to form deep connections and demonstrate remarkable empathy. By fostering an environment that nurtures both their learning and emotional needs, parents and educators can help children with ADHD harness these qualities to build meaningful relationships and thrive both academically and socially. However, without guidance, emotional intensity can lead to frustration, anxiety, or social struggles. Parents and caregivers can help children manage their emotions effectively by:

• Teaching Mindfulness Techniques – Introducing mindfulness practices such as deep breathing exercises, guided meditation, and journaling can help children with ADHD develop emotional awareness and self-regulation. These techniques allow them to pause, process their emotions, and respond more calmly to challenging situations. Parents can practice mindfulness alongside their child, making it a shared experience that reinforces its importance.
• Encouraging Open Communication – Children with ADHD often experience intense emotions, so it’s essential to create a supportive environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves. Let your child know that it’s okay to feel deeply and encourage them to talk about their emotions without fear of judgment. Providing a designated “cool-down space” at home—equipped with calming items like soft pillows, sensory toys, or soothing music—can give them a safe retreat when they need to manage overwhelming feelings.
• Modeling Emotional Regulation – Children learn by example, and parents play a crucial role in shaping how they handle emotions. Demonstrating healthy ways to cope with stress, frustration, and disappointment—such as taking deep breaths, verbalizing emotions calmly, or engaging in a relaxing activity—can teach children effective self-regulation strategies. Consistently modeling these behaviors reinforces that emotions are manageable and that there are constructive ways to express them.
• Establish a Routine – Structure and consistency are essential for children with ADHD, as unpredictability can lead to anxiety and difficulty staying on task. Creating a predictable daily schedule that includes designated times for schoolwork, play, meals, and bedtime helps provide stability. Visual schedules, checklists, and timers can also serve as helpful reminders. Additionally, building in positive reinforcements—such as small rewards or praise for completing tasks—can boost motivation and encourage a sense of accomplishment.

Limitless vs. Limited

It is crucial that we, as a society, shift the narrative surrounding ADHD. Instead of viewing it as a limitation, we must recognize the strengths and potential that come with neurodiversity.

By educating those around us, we can create a world where people with ADHD are supported rather than stigmatized. With the right tools, individuals with ADHD can flourish in their own way—contributing to society in ways that traditional thinkers might never imagine.

If we embrace the bright side of ADHD, we open doors to a future where neurodiverse individuals are empowered, valued, and celebrated for their unique contributions.

By providing personalized treatment plans to help guide your child to healthy adulthood, you can have the confidence and peace of mind knowing your child’s safety, health and well-being is prioritized.

If you child has been diagnosed with ADHD, you believe they may have ADHD, or would like to know more about our care, you can schedule an appointment with me at our MemorialCare Medical Group – Lakewood location, or call our Navigation Center at (877) 696-3622.