Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of people worldwide, and it can be challenging to deal with. People with ADHD often find it challenging to focus, stay organised, and follow through on tasks, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and shame. For this reason, many people with ADHD feel like they are constantly failing to meet society's expectations. Despite this, there is no "perfect" way to live with ADHD. In this blog post, we'll explore why people with ADHD often feel shame and provide strategies for finding acceptance.
Living with ADHD can be challenging, mainly because of the stigma surrounding the condition. The problem is that society often sees ADHD as merely an inability to focus or pay attention. This narrow view can make people with ADHD feel like they're lazy, unmotivated, or even unintelligent, leading to significant feelings of shame.
But what does this have to do with having a clean kitchen? Well, the connection lies in societal expectations, which have a major influence on the expectations we have of ourselves, and this is especially true for people with ADHD. This is why messiness is so harshly judged; people with ADHD often feel like they are constantly being compared to their peers who don’t share the same challenges, leading to feelings of shame and guilt.
Despite these challenges, there is no exact way to live with ADHD. Instead of striving to be perfect, those of us with ADHD should focus on finding what works best for us. This means listening to our bodies and minds and figuring out what helps us focus and stay organised. What works for one person with ADHD may not work for another, and that's perfectly okay.
It's also important to remember that living with ADHD is not a personal failure. It's a neurological condition that affects how the brain works. While it can make life more challenging, it also presents unique strengths, such as creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Embracing these strengths and focusing on personal growth rather than perfection can help counter feelings of shame.
Finally, seeking out support from others can be incredibly beneficial for finding acceptance with ADHD. Talking to friends and family members about the challenges and successes can help create a sense of community and acceptance. Likewise, finding a therapist or support group can provide a safe space to discuss feelings of shame and learn new strategies for managing ADHD.
Living with ADHD can be a challenge, especially when there is such a strong stigma and expectation of perfection surrounding the condition. However, it's important to remember that there is no "perfect" way to live with ADHD; instead, we should strive for acceptance by embracing our strengths, focusing on personal growth, and seeking out support from others. By doing so, we can learn to live in a world that wasn't designed for us, rather than always trying to fit an elusive standard of perfection. Our team understands the complexities of ADHD and can provide a safe space to discuss your feelings, challenges, and successes. Together, we can explore personalised approaches that work best for you. Remember, it's okay to ask for help, and it's okay to be perfectly imperfect. Book an appointment now with one of our experienced therapists