October marks ADHD Awareness Month, a time to deepen our understanding of ADHD, break down misconceptions, and most importantly, empower ourselves and others. If you’ve been living with ADHD or recently discovered it as an adult, this month is a chance to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what it means to live authentically with ADHD.
I see so many women who felt relief after finally receiving their diagnosis. But that relief can often be quickly followed by frustration. The truth is, knowing you have ADHD is one thing—learning how to live with it is another. And that’s where the real work begins.
This month, let’s explore a few key areas where we can raise our own awareness, shift our mindset, and support one another.
1. Understanding Your Brain: It’s Not Broken, It’s Just Different
For years, ADHD has been talked about in ways that make us feel "less than." People throw around words like “lazy” or “disorganized” as if those are personality traits. But ADHD isn’t a character flaw. It’s simply a different way of processing information and navigating the world.
This month, I encourage you to start looking at your brain with compassion. Instead of focusing on what’s “wrong,” think about how you can work with your brain’s strengths. Whether it’s embracing your ability to hyperfocus or creating systems that align with how you naturally operate, ADHD is about finding what works for you.
2. Breaking Down the Myths
Let’s be real—there are some serious myths about ADHD that we’ve all encountered at one time or another. Things like:
- “ADHD only affects kids.”
- “You can’t have ADHD if you’re successful.”
- “If you really tried harder, you wouldn’t struggle.”
Sound familiar? None of these are true, and yet, they linger in the minds of so many. ADHD Awareness Month is a perfect time to challenge these myths, not only for ourselves but for the people in our lives who may not fully understand what it’s like to have ADHD.
Take some time to educate the people around you. Share your experiences and open the door to conversations that break through the stigma. The more we talk about ADHD, the more we can change the narrative from shame and misunderstanding to one of acceptance and empowerment.
3. Self-Compassion and ADHD: A Non-Negotiable
If there’s one message I want to hammer home this month, it’s this: self-compassion is not optional when you have ADHD. The harsh inner critic that tells you you’re not trying hard enough? Let’s work on quieting that voice.
Living with ADHD can mean dealing with an overwhelming to-do list, missed deadlines, or a constant feeling of falling behind. But here’s the thing: You are enough just as you are. Learning to give yourself grace is key to thriving with ADHD. It’s okay if your path looks different. It’s okay if some days feel harder than others.
This month, let’s commit to treating ourselves with the same kindness and understanding that we’d offer a friend.
4. Creating Support Systems That Work for You
Another crucial part of thriving with ADHD is building support systems that work for your unique needs. This might mean:
- Asking for help when you need it (no shame in that!).
- Setting up accountability partners.
- Joining communities where you feel understood.
October is a great time to explore new strategies, tools, or communities that can make your life a little easier. Whether it’s finding an accountability buddy, starting a body doubling session, or simply setting up small routines, creating these systems can help you take action in ways that feel sustainable and manageable.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Make ADHD Awareness Month Matter
As we move through ADHD Awareness Month, I hope you take this time to learn more about yourself, practice self-compassion, and celebrate your growth. ADHD is part of who you are, but it doesn’t define your worth. Let’s continue to break down stigmas, support each other, and focus on progress over perfection.
This month is about more than just “raising awareness.” It’s about understanding, accepting, and empowering yourself to thrive with ADHD.
You’ve got this!
~ Jorie
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