Buy Lorazepam online.Many people believe that adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) struggle to hold jobs or achieve success, but that’s a myth. The reality is much more nuanced, and many people with ADHD are incredibly successful in their careers and in life. But while they may thrive in certain settings, those labeled as “high-functioning” often navigate unique ADHD-related challenges that go unnoticed. This outdated term can create misconceptions about their experiences and lead to misunderstandings about the support they need.
In this article, we’ll dive into the complexities of high-functioning adult ADHD, debunk common myths, and highlight the importance of acknowledging the diverse experiences of those living with this condition.
What Is High-Functioning ADHD?
“High-functioning ADHD” isn’t a formally recognized medical diagnosis. If you’re diagnosed with ADHD, then you have ADHD—the diagnostic criteria [1*]
don’t specify the level of functioning you have. When people refer to “high-functioning” ADHD, they are typically using a casual term to describe someone with ADHD who has (or appears to have) a higher level of adaptive skills.
Adaptive skills are the everyday skills for daily functioning that are needed to meet the demands of your life and environment. For example, for someone with “high-performing ADHD,” these skills could include:
Being able to keep up with basic tasks like hygiene, finances, and household chores
Having satisfying relationships in their lives
Having a successful and enjoyable careerOn the outside looking in, it may appear that people with “high-functioning ADHD” aren’t held back by their symptoms at all. But if you have ADHD, then only you know how this condition affects you.
Many people who are labeled as “high-functioning” are objectively successful, and there’s no doubt that people with ADHD can be high achievers. But, internally, these individuals continue to face the same symptoms. Just because you’re “high-functioning” and successful doesn’t mean you don’t deserve support for ADHD.
Negative Impacts of High-Functioning ADHD on Daily Life
If you live with high-functioning ADHD, then people may assume that you don’t face the same struggles as those who are labeled as “low-functioning.” But, in reality, you likely continue to face the same symptoms and can even experience unique struggles because of the “high-functioning” label.
You can’t get a diagnosis. The “high-functioning” label might lead medical practitioners to not take your concerns seriously, which could make it difficult for you to receive an appropriate ADHD diagnosis, even if you face significant challenges.
You are not taken seriously. When you voice your struggles, others might dismiss your experiences and assume you can handle responsibilities without issues.
You are not given accommodations. Without recognition of your unique challenges, you might miss out on essential accommodations that could help you thrive in various settings, such as work or school.
Others assume you’re “lazy” or “stupid.” People might mistakenly label you as lazy or unintelligent and overlook that your difficulties stem from ADHD, not a lack of effort or capability.
You are always masking. You could feel compelled to hide your symptoms to fit societal expectations (or “mask”), which might exhaust you and lead to emotional fatigue over time. Masking can also lead to increased stress and mental health problems.
You blame yourself for your symptoms. The pressure to perform at a certain level might cause you to internalize your struggles and feel self-blame instead of understanding that ADHD is a legitimate condition that impacts your life.Causes
The causes of “high-functioning” ADHD, as well as any other form of this condition, are still being studied. So far, scientists have found that it can be caused by a combination of risk factors, including:
Genetics
Brain differences
Early childhood trauma
Prenatal exposure to certain chemicalsHow well you’re able to function with ADHD within neurotypical environments can have many different causes
