ADHD and the Nervous System

Understanding the Unique ADHD Nervous System

In a recent ADDitude Magazine article, Dr. William Dodson talks about ADHD and how it’s related to the nervous system. It explains that ADHD affects things like:

  • Attention
  • Emotion
  • Meeting Deadlines
  • Procrastinating
  • Motivation

Dr. Dodson, an expert in this field, says that the nervous system in people with ADHD works differently, and that’s what makes their brains unique.

Diagnosing ADHD and What Makes It Special

Diagnosing ADHD is a bit complicated because it involves many criteria and characteristics. Dr. Dodson believes that what makes ADHD special is its biology. People with ADHD don’t have a damaged nervous system. Instead, they have a unique one with its own rules. It’s important to know that people with ADHD often have higher IQs, a lot of thoughts going on in their heads, and they are very aware of what’s happening around them.

Performance and Procrastination

People with ADHD do really well in certain situations, like when they have to compete or when they face new, challenging tasks. They can do great when they’re motivated. But sometimes, they procrastinate because they find it hard to get interested in tasks that don’t excite them or aren’t immediately challenging. 

Differences in Motivation

Most people decide what to do based on how important something is, how much it matters, and the rewards or punishments they’ll get. However, people with ADHD have different things that motivate them. Traditional ways of motivating don’t always work for them.

What This Means and How to Help

Understanding how the ADHD nervous system is unique is important for coaches, doctors, and professionals. Dr. Dodson suggests getting help early, like with medication, and using a customized approach that matches a person’s strengths and what they like. Instead of trying to make people with ADHD fit into a “normal” way of doing things, this approach focuses on what they’re good at, which can help them succeed throughout their lives. 

Get In Touch With Woodburn!

For more resources on ADHD and related topics, be sure to visit the Woodburn Pediatric Clinic Blog. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 503-981-5348.

Posted in

Related Posts