Kim's ADD/ADHD Page
		Life is an on-going journey.  I am learning to cope with life, and in doing so, I'm learning to cope with my Attention Deficit Disorder.  A lot of people roll their eyes up and think... Oh sure.  ADD is over-diagnosed.  Everybody thinks they have ADD.  Well.... maybe.  But when I read about it, and discuss ADD with other people who have it, I can REALLY relate to what they have to say, and what I read. I don't want to talk TOO much about what the classic ADD "Symptoms" (I don't like the term "symptoms" for ADD.  It's more of a difference in strengths and weaknesses.) are, I'll just mention that they include (the ones that effect me, anyway):
				Much difficulty paying attention in class, lectures, meetings... no matter HOW hard I try.  Even if it's a subject I'm interested in.  (As a child, I was always in trouble for daydreaming in class.  I couldn't help it. It is NOT voluntary.) Missing out on what people are saying.  I've always had a hard time following a group conversation.  I often "don't get it". Having to re-read the same sentence over and over.  (Even though I really enjoy reading, getting there has been a big effort.) Great difficulty prioritizing tasks.  (This is probably the most difficult "weakness" to deal with.) I easily get disoriented, lost (i.e. while driving), or confused. TOTAL inability to deal with mornings! The sheer exhaustion from being in a constant state of disorganization and confusion leads to.......
					***THE KILLER FATIGUE***
		Well, I could go on, but, I believe I painted the picture well enough. Fortunately, there is a bright side to having ADD.  There are STRENGTHS that go along with the weaknesses.   What I've learned, and I find this to be true of me, is that ADDers can be very creative, imaginative, and talented. In fact, if I get into a "hyperfocused" state of mind, I can be quite inventive and ingenious. This is probably *THE* most important thing I've ever learned: If you do not discover and appreciate your own special gifts, it can lead to....
		DEPRESSION Please click here to read my poem about depression
	As I was saying, the most important thing (for anybody, but especially for the ADDer), is to know and accept your strengths and weaknesses. One way I cope with my "ADD" weaknesses is with humor.  Learn to laugh about it when you have an "ADD moment".  Here are some links to help you find the humor in having ADD or ADHD:
	ADDictionary You know it's an ADD day when... You know you've got ADD when... ADD Comics
	There are certain people in an ADDer's life who will NEVER understand what it's like to have Attention Deficit Disorder.  The best thing to do is just accept this. The people who are NOT going to understand you (or your ADD/ADHD child) are:
						Your teachers Your child's teachers Your spouse Your Non-ADD Boss Your Non-ADD co-workers Your extended family (unless they have ADD as well) Anyone who is organized.
			I don't have any REALLY helpful ADDvice on dealing with the people who don't understand.  The best way to deal with important people who cannot tolerate your weaknesses is, let your strengths shine.  If you are succeeding because of your tremendous talent and ingenuity, your weaknesses won't matter.  (At least, not as much.)  If the people in your life who do not understand your ADD are important to you, then by all means educate them. That, and, accept it as one of those facts of life. I don't have any helpful advice on dealing with teachers, because I have never been successful in that area. (Although I just added a link below, "ADD and the Schools" that might help you.) Here are a few more essential links to help cope with ADD:
			Please read my poem "A Child Sits in School"
			CHADD  (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
			ADD/ADHD Links Page
			Here's a helpful page on ADD and the schools
			Remember...... SMILE ...... LAUGH.... ACCEPT.... and LET YOUR STRENGTHS SHINE!
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