ADHD is a developmental disorder characterized by persistent symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity that comprise functioning and development.

Symptoms begin in childhood and influence daily life, including social, academic, and occupational spheres. Both children and adults can have the condition.

Individuals with ADHD experience an ongoing pattern of:

• Inattention: Having difficulty focusing on a task or activity and remaining organized.

• Hyperactivity: Excessive movement and activity irrespective of the setting and the appropriateness in a setting that expects to remain still.

• Impulsivity: Not thinking before acting. The person might believe without interrupting others, and there is a fundamental lack of self-control. There is a desire for immediate rewards that reflects the delay in gratification.

ADHD symptoms interfere with daily functioning. The following might include:

• Becoming distracted

• Disorganization

• Procrastination

• Impaired time management or planning and organization

• Forgetfulness

• Losing different items

• Interrupting others or being overly talkative

• Difficulty honing in on a task and managing multitasking

• Struggling to follow instructions and follow through on tasks

• Trouble remaining still

• There is a sense of restlessness, and it comes with the need for activity

• Selecting immediate rewards before future rewards

The above symptoms are common in adults with ADHD and frequently co-occurs with other mental health issues. This creates a situation where ADHD becomes more challenging to treat. Sleep is typically a problem in adults with ADHD, with up to 70% of adults with ADHD struggling to sleep, but ADHD can be part of a multidisciplinary team that can mediate the influence of ADHD on your day-to-day life.

Neurodiversity can create challenges in education, the workplace, and society.

The challenges that underlie neurodiversity and ADHD, in particular, are often called "Executive Dysfunctions."

• Promotes Motivation.

• Develops Resilience

• Encourages Well-Being

• Supports Growth

"Executive functions (EFs) make it possible to play with ideas mentally; taking the time to think before acting; meeting novel, unanticipated challenges; resisting temptations; and staying focused." (Diamond, 2012, 135). Core executive functions include:

• Inhibition

  • Executing self-control through resisting temptations and from acting impulsively

• Interference Control

  • Being able to focus on the task at hand. Cognitive inhibition, meaning ignoring irrelevant information

• Working Memory/Cognitive Flexibility

  • Creative thinking, appreciating different perspectives, adapting to changes in circumstances with ease.

Yes, coaches understand that executive dysfunctions are common among individuals struggling with ADHD. Because of this, we can support clients working to manage their executive dysfunctions. It's possible that those with ADHD don't realize that they have an executive dysfunction. Through the coaching process one or more might be revealed. Management, better manage space, keep things from getting lost, and/or improve work habits.