4 ms·
Some psychiatrists consider it a trait and not a disorder. It should only be "treated" if it affects one's life negatively (which it often does in the modern w
by gocartStatue 5y ago
Some psychiatrists consider it a trait and not a disorder.
It should only be "treated" if it affects one's life negatively (which it often does in the modern world, unless you are guerilla herding sheep / living a generally interesting life). So, people "born that way" can suffer more in modern world than they did say 20 or 200 years ago.
There is evidence that medication helps.
There is an interesting book on the topic: _ADHD: A Hunter in a Farmer's World_
Disclosure: I am diagnosed as an adult with ADHD ("primarily innatentive" subtype).
- davzie 5y agoI've found this such a helpful way to frame it and the book you reference is a fantastic read too.
- DestroyADHD 5y agoThank you for your response. Just to let you know, Dr. Russell Barkeley, who is a famous ADHD expert seems to disagree with “Hunter in a farmer’s world” analogy. In a recent podcast appearance he mentioned that it is quite false and misleading. I cannot seem to find which podcast it was. Will link it here if I find it.
- gocartStatue 5y agoYes, there is some limited evidence both against and in favor of this theory. Regardless, I found it helpful to see my neurodivergence not as a medical condition or "weirdness". I have trouble living "normal" life, but am still a valid person, be it "brain damage" or "ancestor of night guard / hunter-gatherer". And here I am, both loving and hating my job as software dev. Got here because of hyperfocus and easy dopamine from quick iteration. Sometimes hooked on being in a different world all day, sometimes dying from being stuck in office chair for 8+ hours a day. Go figure :D