Transforming challenges into superpowers: Embracing ADHD
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects an estimated 7 million U.S. children (11.4%) between the ages of 3 and 17 as of 2022 (CDC: Data and Statistics on ADHD). ADHD can persist into adulthood, with approximately 15.5 million U.S. adults (6.0%) diagnosed with ADHD in 2023. Of these adults, about half were diagnosed in adulthood (CDC: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnosis, Treatment, and Telehealth Use in Adults — National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System, United States, October–November 2023).
As scientists, let’s explore the underlying science of ADHD to better understand its causes and mechanisms. ADHD brains are wired differently from those without the condition. Researchers suggest that specific differences in brain chemistry, structure, and function may contribute to ADHD (ADDA: Inside the ADHD Brain: Structure, Function, and Chemistry).
The brain chemistry of individuals with ADHD differs from that of those without the condition. For example, ADHD brains have been shown to have lower levels of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which are linked to anxiety, depression, Alzheimer's, mood disorders, and ADHD itself (Liu et al., 2018; Ulke et al., 2019; del Campo et al., 2011). An imbalance of dopamine is particularly significant in ADHD, as it can result in symptoms such as inattention and impulsivity, which interfere with the brain’s dopamine reward pathways (Volkow et al., 2009). ADHD brains also tend to favor smaller, immediate rewards over larger, delayed ones (Volkow et al., 2009).
In terms of brain structure, individuals with ADHD may have differences in the frontal cortex, limbic regions, and basal ganglia—areas of the brain that regulate behavior, emotions, attention, and motor skills (ADDA: Inside the ADHD Brain: Structure, Function, and Chemistry). Additionally, ADHD brains tend to exhibit more activity in the default mode network (DMN), which is typically activated during daydreaming or when not focused on a specific task. This increased DMN activity may make it more difficult to sustain focus on certain tasks.
Transforming Your ADHD into Your Superpowers
How can you harness your ADHD as a superpower? Let’s explore some of the positive traits that many people with ADHD possess, beyond the typical challenges associated with the condition. According to an article by ADDitude, What I Would Never Trade, some of these favorable traits include problem-solving skills, imagination and creativity, compassion, a sense of humor, perseverance, a keen memory and sense of observation, multitasking abilities, laser-focus, boundless energy, a zest for life, acceptance, and a strong moral compass. As I reflect on these traits, I realize that I, too, have ADHD and can relate to many of these qualities.
Problem-solving is a valuable trait in nearly every career, as everyone encounters complex challenges both inside and outside of their profession. This skill can help you identify unique solutions to tricky situations—solutions that non-ADHD peers might overlook. Imagination and creativity are also key strengths. As a child, I loved using my toys to build and explore my interests in various areas. Many people with ADHD, including myself, have the ability to think outside the box and create our own imaginative worlds, which fuels our creativity.
Compassion is a valuable trait, especially in today’s workplace, where many employers seek individuals with strong emotional intelligence. As someone with ADHD, who may experience life differently than most, we often have a unique ability to understand and empathize with others who are also different. We tend to offer unconditional support to those who are struggling because we know what it’s like to face our own challenges.
Perseverance has been the key to my success in my career. I refuse to give up, especially when I’ve invested so much time and effort into achieving my goals. As someone with ADHD, I understand that we often face additional challenges and work harder than our peers. However, these struggles help us develop determination and willpower, driving us to keep pushing forward and ultimately reach our objectives.
Multitasking has become a common necessity in our busy lives, and for those of us with ADHD, it can actually be a strength. Our brains often allow us to thrive and be more productive when juggling multiple tasks. Personally, I rely on a "to-do list" to prioritize my work in my career. It helps me stay focused and gives me a sense of accomplishment when I cross something off the list.
Laser focus is one of the unique strengths of ADHD. As someone with ADHD, I often experience a tendency to become deeply focused on activities that allow me to express myself, learn new skills, or explore a subject I’m passionate about. When harnessed, this hyper-focus can help me accomplish tasks more efficiently and quickly—but it works best when the task is something that genuinely interests me.
Endless energy is often seen as one of my superpowers. People often remark that I’m constantly on the go, and it’s true—I keep going and going, driven by a relentless energy until my battery is completely drained.
Zeal for life is another strength many people with ADHD share. Whether as children or adults, we face challenges head-on and always find ways to overcome them. While staying positive can be difficult at times, especially when faced with struggles, we tend to thrive when doing things we enjoy. Overcoming obstacles gives us a sense of pride and motivates us to keep moving forward with a positive attitude. Unlike many others, we often face unique challenges, which may make our optimism stand out. People are naturally drawn to positivity, and as those who persist through difficulties, we tend to radiate that energy more than others.
Acceptance: As individuals with ADHD, we have unique experiences that others may not fully understand. Because of this, we learn to accept ourselves for who we are. We should take pride in our identity and embrace our differences, showing the world that people with ADHD possess special superpowers.
Strong Moral Compass
Throughout my life, I’ve often been told, “You have a heart of gold” and “You have strong moral values that guide you.” As someone with ADHD, I live each day with core values that define who I am. Our ADHD brains often help us clearly understand what’s "right" and "wrong," providing a strong sense of moral direction.
These personality traits are not only part of what makes us who we are, but they are also crucial for success in any career. Many of these qualities—such as determination, creativity, and empathy—are especially valuable in fields like science, where individuals with ADHD or similar conditions often excel. Embrace your ADHD and use these strengths as your superpower to succeed in both your life and your career.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Data and statistics on ADHD. https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/data/index.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder diagnosis, treatment, and telehealth use in adults — National Center for Health Statistics rapid surveys system, United States, October–November 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7340a1.htm
Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA). (n.d.). Inside the ADHD brain: Structure, function, and chemistry. https://add.org/adhd-brain/
Liu, Y., Zhao, J., & Guo, W. (2018). Emotional roles of mono-aminergic neurotransmitters in major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. Frontiers in Psychology, 9, Article 2201. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02201
Ulke, C., Rullmann, M., Huang, J., Luthardt, J., Becker, G. A., Patt, M., Meyer, P. M., Tiepolt, S., Hesse, S., Sabri, O., & Strauß, M. (2019). Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is associated with reduced norepinephrine transporter availability in right attention networks: A (S, S)-O-[11C]methylreboxetine positron emission tomography study. Translational Psychiatry, 9(1), Article 301. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-019-0619-y
del Campo, N., Chamberlain, S. R., Sahakian, B. J., & Robbins, T. W. (2011). The roles of dopamine and noradrenaline in the pathophysiology and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Biological Psychiatry, 69(12), e145–e157. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2011.02.036
Volkow, N. D., Wang, G. J., Kollins, S. H., Wigal, T. L., Newcorn, J. H., Telang, F., Fowler, J. S., Zhu, W., Logan, J., Ma, Y., Pradhan, K., Wong, C., & Swanson, J. M. (2009). Evaluating dopamine reward pathway in ADHD: Clinical implications. JAMA, 302(10), 1084–1091. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2009.1308
ADDitude. (n.d.). What I would never trade away. https://www.additudemag.com/slideshows/positives-of-adhd/
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