Hello dear reader,
I am a child with one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It's called ADHD, aka Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. I do not like to be associated with this disorder, to be labeled, to be marginalized or to be separated. I'm just explaining it in detail in the hope that you can understand me better…
As the name suggests, there are two sides to this situation. One side is about my “attention”, the other is about “why is my being so active”. And you know, because it's a disorder, I'm not doing these things on purpose or to piss you off, and I won't be able to get over it as I get older. There are many children, even adults, like me, who experience this situation all over the world. Yes, you didn't hear me wrong. This is also seen in adults. Have you ever come across a forgetful adult who has trouble concentrating, checks his belongings multiple times, can't make it to his appointments, spends more money than usual? Maybe he is experiencing the same situation as me; but is he unaware?
Like people with ADHD, I may have trouble concentrating. I may act impulsively without thinking about the outcome, I may have trouble with being overactive. My mind can be easily distracted during the day, so you can see me as if I'm daydreaming. I may have trouble finding my things or remembering what they told me. Sitting in the same place for long periods of time is not only very boring for me, but also unsustainable. Sometimes I may talk too much and I may have impulsive movements that I can't predict the result of. I have the most difficulty at school in this regard; because class hours are too long for me to keep my attention. For this, I can talk to the teacher, be directed to activities that will enable me to move at regular intervals, or take a break. I know I am not privileged from other children; but things get worse when I'm not understood. Not being able to remember my lessons, listen to my teacher, do my homework, or get along with my friends can be challenging, I can be tagged or excluded. >Careless Presentation: More attention related difficulties are encountered; easily distracted and unable to remember details, difficulty completing a task, difficulty following instructions and conversations
Hyperactive Presentation: Mobility is more prominent, person fidgety and cannot stand still. Impulsive behavior and restlessness are seen.
Combined: The person experiences the symptoms of both presentations.
ADHD is a condition that happens to millions of people around the world. A situation that can be managed with the right specialist when diagnosed correctly and in a timely manner. Unfortunately, it never goes away; but with the right approach, it is possible to live functionally. So, there's still light at the end of the tunnel!
October is ADHD awareness month. Maybe you can make people aware of this after reading my letter.
Take care,
Read: 0
