Dav Pilkey. Lily Allen. Greta Gerwig. Michael Jordan. Jim Carey. Jamie Oliver.
You may be wondering what these famous people have in common… and it might come as a surprise to know, they all have Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Discovering your ADHD in adulthood?
While behaviours and treatments are often discussed for this neurological disorder in school-aged children, some people are overlooked, and find themselves navigating adulthood with a new diagnosis.
According to the organisation ADHD Australia, ADHD affects around one in twenty Australians, which is over 1.2 million people. (Source: www.adhdaustralia.org.au)
The three types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive, and a combination of the two.
According to the not-for-profit medical group the Mayo Clinic, the following may be symptoms of ADHD in adulthood:
- Impulsiveness
- Disorganisation and problems prioritising
- Poor time management skills
- Problems focusing on a task
- Trouble multitasking
- Excessive activity or restlessness
- Poor planning
- Low frustration tolerance
- Frequent mood swings
- Problems following through and completing tasks
- Hot temper
- Trouble coping with stress
(Source: Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic)
Yarra Plenty Regional Library (YPRL) has dedicated quiet study areas in each library which may assist with people who have trouble focusing. The libraries also have private rooms that can be booked for additional peace and quiet. Headphones are also available to borrow to block out additional noise if desired.
If you feel too restless to read a novel, then perhaps an audiobook might be a good place to start. Each library has a variety of audiobooks to listen to. They can be borrowed off the shelf, or as digital version through apps available for free to library users. These include BorrowBox and Libby.
Let’s not forget magazines too!
ADHD isn't a bad thing, it's a different way of thinking.
- David Neeleman
There are many positives to having ADHD, including creativity and hyper focus. YPRL have several activities regularly hosted at each library which allow people, including those from a neurodiverse background, to participate in. There’s even a 3D printer to create things from your imagination and beyond! To check out the 3D printer training, visit the Events page. For details on upcoming events visit: Events (yprl.vic.gov.au)
To find out more about ADHD and how to manage this, check out the books available to loan at YPRL. And don’t worry, there’s no rush to read them, there’s three-week loans and two renewals available after this!
Remember, ADHD gives you a unique perspective on life, it doesn’t have to be a negative. The quote above encourages you to use your ADHD to embrace your unique strengths in the way you see the world differently and that's not just okay, it's awesome.
Books to explore:
Scattered Minds by Gabor Mate
Also available as eAudio (Libby).
A thought-provoking book by Doctor Gabor Mate who specializes in neurology, psychiatry and psychology and who also has ADHD. The book explains how our brains are influenced by our life experiences, biology and psychology. It gives adults with ADHD insight into their emotions and behaviours.
The Year I Met My Brain: A travel companion for adults who have just found out they have ADHD by Matilda Boseley
Also available as eAudio (Libby), eBook (BorrowBox)
This book follows Australian journalist Matilda Boseley’s journey of discovery with her recent ADHD diagnosis. It explores how ADHD impacts people’s lives, provides practical tips and insight into the symptoms, particularly for women, which can often differ from those of men.
ADHD explained: your toolkit to understanding and thriving by Edward M Hallowell
A ‘go to guide’ on ADHD, this book written by Dr Edward M Hallowell answers questions surrounding ADHD as well as providing advice on relationships, career, wellbeing and education. It also discusses how anyone with ADHD can thrive!
Natural relief for adult ADHD : complementary strategies for increasing focus, attention, and motivation with or without medication by Stephanie Sarkis
Given not everyone wants to go down the path of medication to manage their ADHD, this book explores alternative options by providing a research-based guide for the most effective non-medication treatments for ADHD. This includes acupuncture, massage and body awareness techniques. It also explores the impact of diet on ADHD.
Organizing solutions for people with ADHD : tips and tools to help you take charge of your life and get organized by Susan C Pinsky
Feeling out of control with your ADHD? This book is for you.
It’s full of tips and tricks by professional organiser Susan Pinsky, for creating and sticking to an organised life and experiencing harmony in your home.