Disclaimer: The content of this blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice.
INTRODUCTION
In today's fast-paced world, many individuals struggle with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). But what about those who seem to manage their symptoms effectively while still experiencing significant challenges? There are many who are unaware they have a form of ADHD. They have developed coping strategies to function daily, meet responsibilities and show up for work, family, friends, and life in general. However, they may be paying a heavy price, experiencing high levels of fatigue and overwhelm, because it is taking everything they have to manage their symptoms each day.
The impacts of High Functioning ADHD can be extensive. ADHD is often recognized for the challenges it poses in childhood, but adult High Functioning ADHD is no less concerning, leaving a potential host of adverse health outcomes in its wake. Adults with ADHD are more likely to struggle with substance abuse, experience poor sleep, and face physical injuries. They're also at higher risk for obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. Research by Nigg (2013) highlights a concerning link between ADHD and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including cardiac arrest, stroke, and vascular disease.
The impacts on mental health are equally significant. ADHD is frequently connected to higher rates of depression, anxiety, lower self-esteem, and a disatisfaction with quality of life. In this article, we dive into the concept of high functioning ADHD, exploring what it is, how it manifests in children and adults, and the pathways to diagnosis. Whether you're a parent, educator, or adult navigating ADHD, this guide is designed to offer insights and support.
What Is High Functioning ADHD?
High functioning ADHD refers to individuals who exhibit ADHD symptoms but manage to maintain a high level of functioning in daily life. These individuals may have coping mechanisms or support systems that help them soften disruptive aspects of ADHD, allowing them to succeed in various areas despite their symptoms.
ADHD vs. High Functioning ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder diagnosed in childhood or adulthood and is characterized by delayed development of the frontal lobe, leading to difficulties with executive function, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The difficulties with executive function can make daily tasks challenging, including academic performance, work responsibilities, and social relationships. We know now that ADHD continues from childhood into adulthood, with symptoms re-emerging during times where life events or changes bring more responsibilities and demands.
High Functioning ADHD
High functioning ADHD, on the other hand, involves individuals who exhibit the core symptoms of ADHD but manage to perform well in their personal and professional lives. They may develop effective strategies to cope with their symptoms or may have less severe manifestations of ADHD. However, this doesn't mean they don't struggle; their challenges can still be significant but are often invisible to others.
What Are the Symptoms of High Functioning ADHD?
High functioning ADHD shares many symptoms with traditional ADHD, but they might be less disruptive or more easily masked. Common symptoms include:
Poor time management
Difficulty focusing on tasks
Impulsivity
Restlessness
Forgetfulness
Difficulty completing tasks
Anxiousness
In children, high functioning ADHD might present as trouble paying attention in class or understanding social cues, but still achieving decent grades. Adults with high functioning ADHD might struggle with meeting deadlines or staying organized but manage to excel in their careers through sheer effort or supportive environments.
What Are the Impacts of High Functioning ADHD?
The impacts of high functioning ADHD can vary widely between children and adults. In children, it might affect academic performance and social interactions, leading to issues with self-esteem and peer relationships. Adults may face challenges in maintaining consistent performance at work, managing household responsibilities, and maintaining relationships.
Children
Academic challenges despite intelligence
Social difficulties
Lower self-esteem
Behavioral issues
Adults
Career instability
Relationship struggles
Chronic stress and anxiety
Difficulty with daily responsibilities
Are There Benefits of Having ADHD?
While ADHD presents many challenges, it can also come with unique strengths. Some potential benefits include:
Creativity: Many individuals with ADHD are highly creative and excel in fields that require out-of-the-box thinking.
Hyperfocus: At times, individuals with ADHD can become intensely focused on tasks they find interesting, leading to high productivity.
Energy and Enthusiasm: The hyperactivity aspect of ADHD can translate into a high energy level, which can be channeled into productive activities.
Resilience: Coping with the challenges of ADHD often fosters resilience and problem-solving skills.
Edward M. Hallowell, MD, a psychiatrist based in the Boston area and the author of ADHD 2.0: New Science and Essential Strategies for Thriving with Distraction -- from Childhood Through Adulthood, asserts that each trait associated with ADHD has a positive counterpart. For example, Hallowell, who was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, explains that distractibility can be seen as curiosity, impulsivity as creativity, and hyperactivity as energy. According to Hallowell, having ADHD means “your brain is like a Ferrari engine, but you only have bicycle brakes.” He emphasizes that those with ADHD don't lack attention; instead, they have an abundance of it, and the key challenge is learning to manage it.
What are some strategies that help?
Structured Routines: Establishing and sticking to daily routines helps in managing time and staying organized. This includes setting specific times for waking up, working, exercising, and relaxing.
Task Lists and Prioritization: Using to-do lists, planners, and prioritization techniques like the Eisenhower Matrix to organize tasks and ensure important tasks are completed first.
Setting Reminders: Utilizing alarms, calendar alerts, and reminder apps to keep track of appointments, deadlines, and important tasks.
Breaking Tasks into Smaller Steps: Dividing large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed and to ensure steady progress.
Creating a Conducive Environment: Minimizing distractions by organizing the workspace, using noise-canceling headphones, or working in a quiet environment.
Time Management Techniques: Implementing techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working for a set period (e.g., 25 minutes) followed by a short break.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation to improve focus and reduce stress.
Regular Movement: Engaging in regular physical activity to help improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Quality Nutrition: Maintaining a balanced diet, high in protein and healthy fats, and low in carbohydrates is to ensure stable energy levels and reduce symptoms like irritability or lack of focus.
Seeking Support: Utilizing support systems such as therapy, coaching, support groups, or talking with friends and family for encouragement and accountability.
Assistive Technology: Using apps and tools designed to aid productivity, such as organizational apps, note-taking tools, and focus-enhancing software.
Self-Awareness and Reflection: Regularly reflecting on what strategies work best, and being aware of personal triggers and how to avoid them.
These coping mechanisms can significantly help individuals with high functioning ADHD to manage their symptoms effectively and excel in various areas of their lives.
Understanding ADHD: Where to Start and Find Support
If you think you might have ADHD, talking to your family doctor is a great first step. Just like any other mental health condition, ADHD is diagnosed by medical professionals. Your family doctor can assess your mental health and start treatment if necessary, or they might refer you to specialized mental health services.
There are several organizations that can help you find useful resources and support:
Canadian Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Resource Alliance (CADDRA): CADDRA supports health professionals who research, treat, and support people with ADHD. Their website has a 'Public Info' section with lots of information on adult ADHD and the assessment process. You can also find plenty of resources and recommended publications.
Centre for ADHD Awareness, Canada (CADDAC): This organization provides education and advocacy for Canadians with ADHD. Their website has a section for adults with information on symptoms, assessments, treatments, ADHD in the workplace, and a reading list full of helpful materials.
These organizations can be great resources for learning more about ADHD and finding the support you need, whether you would like to explore non-medical interventions or are thinking about pursuing a diagnosis.
ADHD Assessments
An ADHD assessment typically includes questionnaires and interviews to assess symptoms and their impact on daily life. Adult Self-Reporting scales and Executive Function assessments evaluate your present and past experiences, challenges, and obstacles. Physicians also assess for anxiety and depression, which can mimic the difficulties brought on by ADHD.
Before You Go for an Assessment
At MindWise Counselling, we can support clients who may wish to explore ADHD with a therapist before meeting with a doctor for a discussion about assessment.
Understanding Symptoms: ADHD can manifest in various ways, such as difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, which might overlap with other issues like anxiety or depression. We can help you explore and understand symptoms, and help you create some clarity on whether your experiences align with ADHD or something else.
Emotional Support: Seeking help for ADHD can feel overwhelming! Therapists at MindWise provide emotional support, helping you process any feelings of frustration, confusion, or fear that may arise from your struggles with focus, organization, or other executive functions.
Holistic Exploration: We take a holistic approach, and consider your entire life context, including relationships, work, and family dynamics. This broad approach may reveal other contributing factors to the difficulties you are facing and allow for a more comprehensive understanding before seeking a formal diagnosis. It can also bring a lot of relief!
Non-Medical Interventions: Therapists at MindWise offer non-medical strategies for managing ADHD-like symptoms. This might include cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, or strategies to help with organization, planning, time management etc., which can sometimes reduce the need for medication or enhance its effectiveness later.
Preparation for Medical Consultation: We can help you prepare for a doctor's appointment, offering insight into what to expect from an ADHD assessment and discuss important questions to ask. This preparation ensures you are informed and confident when seeking medical advice.
If you are thinking about an assessment for ADHD, you don’t have to try to figure it out by yourself. We can be a valuable first step, offering emotional, psychological, and practical support as you start the process.
Summary
High functioning ADHD is a complex condition that demands careful attention and support. It is characterized by individuals who are able to cope with their symptoms to some extent, yet they encounter various obstacles that can disrupt their routines and overall well-being on a regular basis. Despite appearing to function well on the surface, these individuals often struggle with internal battles that can affect their relationships, work performance, and personal fulfillment.
Recognizing the subtle signs of high functioning ADHD is crucial in order to provide appropriate assistance and understanding. These individuals may exhibit symptoms such as impulsivity, inattention, hyperactivity, or a combination of these, which can manifest differently compared to those with more severe forms of ADHD. By acknowledging these signs and their potential impact, it becomes possible to offer tailored support and interventions that cater to their specific needs.
Obtaining a proper diagnosis is a vital step in effectively managing high functioning ADHD. Through professional assessment and evaluation, individuals can gain clarity on their condition, leading to a better grasp of how it influences their daily life. This diagnosis not only validates their experiences but also opens up avenues for targeted treatments, therapies, and strategies that can enhance their quality of life and help them navigate the challenges associated with high functioning ADHD.
For those interested in learning more about high functioning ADHD, seeking support, or wanting to explore ADHD symptoms, please contact MindWise Counselling to schedule a session. Understanding and addressing ADHD can give strategies and tools to lead to a balanced and fulfilling life. You don’t have to feel stuck.
Schedule an appointment to discuss ADHD with MindWise Counselling and feel better!
CALL/TEXT: 236-565-5336
Thanks for being here,
Jenny Cassidy
B.A. (Pych), MACP (Qualifying)
References
French, B., Nalbant, G., Wright, H., Sayal, K., Daley, D., Groom, M. J., Cassidy, S., & Hall, C. L. (2024). The impacts associated with having ADHD: an umbrella review. Frontiers in psychiatry, 15, 1343314. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1343314
Milioni ALV, et al. (2017). High IQ may “mask” the diagnosis of ADHD by compensating for deficits in executive functions in treatment-naïve adults with ADHD.
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