ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that consists of difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. People with ADHD can experience fidgeting, lack of restraint, a short attention span. ADHD is tied to anxiety, learning disabilities, and depression.

How does it [ADHD] affect your day to day life?

“I would say it makes it quite difficult. I will often times start picking at my skin out of sheer boredom. I also have a skin issue that causes it in the first place, but the reason why it’s so bad is because of ADHD. It sounds dumb blaming it on it, but there are neurological reasons behind it. And sometimes it’s difficult starting tasks in the first place.” (Ryan Nash, Sophomore at NAI)

“It’s very distracting, and hard for me to focus. It also makes me fidget a lot. I tried medicine, but it wasn’t for me. I now use a more homeopathic approach.” (7th Grader at NA)

How does it make you feel when you hear someone self diagnose themselves or use what you have in the wrong context? Do you feel like that demeans you having it or makes it less serious?

“I don’t like it. I’ll often times correct it. I won’t be mad at them, I understand why. Even in the medical community itself, it’s often misused. I just try to educate people. (When asked follow-up question) I would say yes because it is a medical condition and people are seeing it as more of a quirky personality trait when it’s a medical condition.” (Ryan Nash, Sophomore at NAI)

“It makes me angry and disappointed because ADHD is a very important thing and people should care about it. (When asked follow-up question) No, I don’t think it demeans me.” (7th Grader at NA)

It seems as if some people think of mental illnesses as a “trend”. What is your personal opinion on this?

“I’ve not heard that opinion that much honestly, so I would say it’s no big deal.” (Ryan Nash, Sophomore at NAI)

“It makes me laugh but at the same time, it’s a serious thing for some people and they have to take medication for it. You can’t really make fun of it.” (7th Grader at NA)

Are you less willing to open up about it now?

“Sometimes, but overall, no. I’ve decided to educate people is the best approach.” (Ryan Nash, Sophomore at NAI)

“No, because a bunch of people have it at my school.” (7th Grader at NA)