Judy Lipson's Newsletter for Transformation
Finding Your Light to Remember and Become Who You Really Are
ADHD
Recently I came upon an article stating that ADHD is not a disorder, but rather an evolutionary mismatch to the modern learning environment we have constructed. (Interestingly, it also says that anxiety may be due to chronic activation of the fight or flight system, PTSD may occur when trauma triggers the freeze response which is designed to help animals disconnect from pain before they die, and depression may be a chronic activation of that same freeze response.)
I have worked with kids and adults for years who have the diagnoses or characteristics of ADHD, and I suspect that there are more students with these qualities than in past decades.
A teacher with whom I worked theorized a few decades ago that there are more students in the US with these traits because our country was settled by immigrants who left their countries for freedom and individual rights. Once they arrived many bravely traveled to far shores. If you have folks in your life with the characteristics of ADHD you can recognize that their qualities are exactly what was needed for success by our earlier settlers.
The DSM-V recognizes three forms of ADHD for diagnosis: primarily inattentive, primarily hyperactive and impulsive, and combined. Dr. Daniel Amen, psychiatrist and brain imaging specialist, is highly respected in the field of ADHD. He has identified 7 different types of ADHD and each has special characteristics and suggested treatments (read the linked article). His work is as fascinating as it is informative.
Additionally, many professionals recognize that what looks like ADHD is really anxiety, and that which appears to be anxiety can really be ADHD.
A METAPHYSICAL APPROACH
Several years ago I was meditating in preparation for speaking to a spiritually aware group about Sensitives and I received the following information:
Those with hyperactive-type ADHD are seeking to release the inner tension that has accumulated in their bodies from the excessive stimulation that comes from their five senses. The more we can recognize their experience and assist them to reduce their sensory bombardment, the less movement they are likely to exhibit.
Years before this message I was counseling an adolescent and realized that as he got in touch with and released his anger his hyperactivity lessened. This is a reminder that emotions (our own and others) can create sensory overload just as the input from the five senses.
The message that I received about ADHD distractibility is that frequently these individuals are seeking their 'quiet place'. This might be their inner sanctum or their recognition of their "true home".
There is so much that we have yet to understand about ADHD. And there are so many ways to see the gifts that ADHD provides --- especially when we are not trying to smush these individuals into the constraints of outdated educational and societal models. If you didn't yet look at the positives of ADHD, I hope you will do so now. Then take a look at the students in your classroom as well as yourself and your loved ones and recognize ADHD with new eyes.
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QUESTIONS & COMMENTS
Q: How can I best help a kindergartner who is having a meltdown?
A: This is not just for kindergarteners: Calm your own system by slowing your breath, speaking softly and slowly, while moving with calm intention and minimal movements. Provide a safe place until the child can respond to your input. Later, take some time to identify the antecedents: identify the types of situations that affected this child prior to the meltdown. Look at academic challenges, social difficulties, sensory input, transitions, etc. The best treatment for a meltdown is to strive to reduce the triggers for next time, and to help the student to better address that difficulty in the future.
Q: I really resonate with the suggestion that you gave about taking a softer, quieter approach with my students, but I’m not sure how to do this with a totally disruptive student.
A: Find your compassion for this student (see the response above for some ideas). Try to identify your own triggers and address these within yourself so you will be less affected by the student's disruptions in the future. Then go back to understanding what is triggering this student. What resources or accommodations can be provided to reduce the likelihood of outbursts in the future? You might check out the educational articles on my website for ideas. (Particularly, scroll toward the bottom of that webpage).
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QUOTES
Man’s main task in life is to give birth to himself to become what he potentially is.
Erich Fromm
Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.
Dr. Stephen R. Covey
To “listen” another’s soul into a condition of disclosure and discovery may be almost the greatest service that any human being ever performs for another.
Douglas Steere
The more faithfully you listen to the voice within you, the better you hear what is sounding outside of you.
Dag Hammarskjold
Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what's left of you.
Katie Reed
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COMMUNITY EVENTS
Pathway to Hope 2021 Resource Guide offered by Healing Complex Kids. The first 4000 copies ordered with an Oakland County zip code are free, due to a generous grant! If you are not in Oakland County, or are after the 4000, then they are $9.97 + $5 for shipping and handling.
Nov 4, 6:30-8pm: On My Own of Michigan will offer an evening of storytelling with six personal stories of triumph and celebration. In-person at Rochester Hills Library, or virtual via FaceBook and YouTube.
Nov 5 and 12, 1-2:30pm: Part 1 and Part 2 of Why More Education on Sensory Processing is Needed by Dr. Sally Burton-Hoyle via Michigan Alliance for Families
Nov 10, 11, 12, 2021: MASSW 2021 Conference, at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa
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Judy Lipson, M.A.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Judy is a Licensed Professional Counselor who supports Sensitives of all ages - including ADHD, Anxiety, and Autism - in life, work and school. She can also help you Remember and Become Who You Really Are. Judy offers Transformational Counseling, Educational Consultations, and Academic Strategies. Presentations and Workshops also available.
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Parenting on the Go - Sensitives
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