The other day, while working out at the gym, I picked up a magazine featuring an article on thirty things you can do to learn to be grateful. It lists an activity to do, every day, between now and Thanksgiving, so when T-Day arrives, you are truly feeling grateful for the life you live. Then today I came across this list of 25 good things about ADHD. It was compiled over 10 years ago by the counselors at a camp for children, but the list made me feel good inside, as I silently said, "Yes!" to each item on the list. If you have a child with ADHD, slowly read over the list and marvel at the child you have. If you are an adult with ADHD, read over the list and reflect on how true the statements are for you-and wonder how much of your true self you have lost along the way.
25 Good Things About ADHD
1. Lots of energy
2. Willing to try things and take risks
3. Ready to talk, and can talk a lot
4. Gets along well with adults
5. Can do several things at one time
6. Smart
7. Needs less sleep
8. Good sense of humor
9. Good at taking care of younger children
10. Spontaneous
11. Sees details other people miss
12. Understands what it is like to be teased or to be in trouble, therefore, can be understanding of other children
13. Can think of different and new ways to do things
14. Volunteers to help others
15. Happy and enthusiastic
16. Imaginative; creative
17. Articulate; can say things well
18. Sensitive; compassionate
19. Eager to make new friends
20. Courageous
21. More fun to be with than most children
22. Great memory
23. Charming
24. Warm and loving
25. Cares a lot about families
List compiled at Learning Center Summer Camp for Children with ADD, July 1992, by staff and parents. Learning Disabilities Association - Calgary Chapter: Perspectives February, 1993 Volume 21. Posted at http://www.cw.bc.ca/adhd/goodThings.asp.
Cynthia Hammer, MSW
Director of ADD Resources
www.addresources.org
