If you have ADHD, you've probably been told that you're lazy.
"If you just worked harder..."
"If you just tried harder..."
"If you just paid better attention..."
Whenever I hear these lines, I probably gain 5 new gray hairs...and I'm only in my 20s.
Let's get right into it though...
ADHD and "laziness." It's something that people who are unaware of how ADHD works love to say.
What if I told you that laziness doesn't really exist?
What if I told you that when we're overworked, under-appreciated and sleep deprived, it's a totally normal physical, mental and emotional response to crave rest?
What if I told you that laziness is a word that has been used to oppress and stereotype people for centuries, and is used to make people feel deep shame for being human and not running like battery operated machines?
As you can probably tell, I have a LOT of strong opinions on the word "lazy." Quite frankly, I don't think it should be said to describe ANYONE- especially someone with ADHD.
As every day goes by, I become more and more convinced that too many people don't know what ADHD really is. Do they understand that people with ADHD have to work so much harder than their neurotypical peers? Do they understand that ADHD is a wide spectrum, and that it can manifest and affect people in completely different ways? Do they understand how challenging and exhausting it is to manage all of your responsibilities, pay attention and be present in all areas of your life while dealing with ADHD?
I truly believe that if more people understood what ADHD really looks and feels like, they would stop repeating the offensive and inaccurate myth that people with ADHD are "lazy." It is completely normal for people who are overwhelmed, exhausted and frustrated to want to take a break.
Additionally, people with ADHD have lower dopamine levels than many others. Because of this, they are known to chase after projects and activities that feel fun and enjoyable to them, such as playing video games, watching TV or creating different business ideas.
Sometimes the pursuit of dopamine can come at the expense of other responsibilities, which is why I teach all of my clients to find something that they enjoy while they complete a task that they're disinterested in. For some of my clients, that might be putting on their favorite song when they clean the house. For others, that might look like lighting their favorite candle while they knock out their spreadsheets. This allows people to get an increased level of dopamine while also staying on top of their responsibilities.
Are there any other ADHD myths that you've heard of? Comment them below, and maybe I'll make a part two :)
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