How to Flourish With ADHD

24 Mar

Module 6 of my Thrive With ADHD course is one of my favourite modules. The whole of the course is neuroaffirming, but this module is unique in that it invites you to look at ADHD through the lens of neuroscience and positive psychology, illuminating the vibrant hues of ADHD in all their beauty and complexity.

Embracing the Full Spectrum of Your Being

At the heart of this module lies a profound affirmation of Audre Lorde's wisdom: "It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognise, accept, and celebrate those differences." Inspired by Lorde’s work, Module 6’s journey through the neuroscience of ADHD champions the notion that your ADHD brain is not flawed but uniquely brilliant. By acknowledging the prefrontal cortex's symphony and the dopamine melodies that play within us, you’ll begin to see ADHD not as a deficit but as a different way of being in the world, a source of untapped potential that goes beyond the superpower narrative and recognises ordinary brilliance, the fact that you can be uniquely, brilliantly you without having to be exceptional, regardless of your ADHD.

The Playful Heart of Discovery

The fascinating research by Dr. Stuart Brown brings to light the transformative power of play, a concept often relegated to childhood but essential for our wellbeing at every stage of life. For those of us navigating ADHD, play becomes a sanctuary, a space where creativity flows freely, and our spirits soar. Whether we find joy in the humour of the "Joker," the exploration of new horizons, or the tactile delight of the "Kinesthete," play invites us to engage fully with the world, reminding us that joy, laughter, and wonder are vital pieces of nourishment for the soul.

A screenshot of the “Power of Play” lesson in Module 6, where I share with you the 8 different play personalities from a neuroscientist perspective.

Cultivating a Garden of Growth

Carol Dweck's growth mindset is a beacon of hope, emphasising that our brains are gardens of endless potential, awaiting the seeds of effort, learning, and resilience. This mindset, especially powerful for those of us with ADHD, teaches us that challenges are but opportunities for growth, and mistakes are stepping stones on the path to mastery. By embracing this mindset, we cultivate a landscape where each attempt, each moment of struggle, is a triumph of perseverance and a testament to our capacity for transformation.

The Dance of Complexity and Strength

Module 6 guides you through the nuanced dance of ADHD, from the shadow of rejection sensitivity dysphoria to the light of recognising your unique strengths. It navigates the intricate pathways of managing time, overcoming self-sabotage, and the healing balm of self-love.

In this dance, you’ll learn that your greatest challenges also hold the seeds of our most profound strengths, and that within the storm of your struggles lies the potential for creativity, empathy, and unparalleled resilience.

A screenshot of the “Positive Psychology, Self-Love and ADHD” lesson in Module 5, where you’ll explore the neurobiology of self-related practices. In plain English, that means what happens in your brain when you engage in self-love, self-care, and self-compassion. You’ll also learn to change your mindset to see rest and play time as well as “healthy” food choices and hydration as acts of self-care.

A Symphony of Support and Understanding

As you journey through the complexities of ADHD, you’ll discover that empowerment lies in understanding, advocacy, and the embrace of a supportive community. This module calls us to advocate for environments that recognise and celebrate neurodiversity, fostering a society where each neurodiverse individual is valued for their unique contributions. It invites us to build bridges of understanding and compassion, where differences are not just accepted but cherished as essential threads in the tapestry of humanity.

The Horizon of Possibility

As you conclude Module 6, you’ll stand on the horizon of possibility, gazing into a future where ADHD is not a barrier but a gateway to discovering our true potential. This journey through the psychology of ADHD, illuminated by neuroscience and positive psychology, invites you to embrace humanity’s neurodiversity, celebrating your unique strengths, and cultivating a life of growth, joy, and fulfilment.

Together we weave a new narrative for ADHD, one of understanding, acceptance, and celebration. You contribute to that by stepping boldly into the mosaic of your being, embracing the full spectrum of your neurodivergent Self, and thriving in a world that recognises the beauty and brilliance within us all.

Dr Miguel 🙏🏽💖