*Most people with undiagnosed ADHD end up with very low self-esteem, along with other mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, by adulthood as a result. A diagnosis is a godsend for them, because they finally figure out that no, they couldn't have made all their problems go away if only they'd tried harder, so they don't need to hate themselves for not trying hard enough. However, it is very difficult to undo the effects of all the derogatory messages they have gotten from society for so many years, especially since anxiety and a failure to understand one's own limitations can worsen ADHD symptoms.*
Yes, yes, yes. Knowledge is power. Sometimes I wince at past behavior/actions because of what I know now (wasn't diagnosed until an adult) and could wish I didn't know. But if I had been diagnosed as a child and had the kind of support this boy has who knows how I would have turned out. Let him have all the tools available.
P.S. to pipsophiepip - I loved this line: *Even being a "gifted" kid and doing fairly well in school, I always had that "duck" feeling (calm on top but paddling like crazy underneath the water).* Me, too.
(I do wish there was a preview feature. I'm always afraid I have accidentally typed something unspeakable...)
Yes, yes, yes. Knowledge is power. Sometimes I wince at past behavior/actions because of what I know now (wasn't diagnosed until an adult) and could wish I didn't know. But if I had been diagnosed as a child and had the kind of support this boy has who knows how I would have turned out. Let him have all the tools available.
P.S. to pipsophiepip - I loved this line: *Even being a "gifted" kid and doing fairly well in school, I always had that "duck" feeling (calm on top but paddling like crazy underneath the water).* Me, too.
(I do wish there was a preview feature. I'm always afraid I have accidentally typed something unspeakable...)
Reply
Leave a comment