10 Surprising Benefits of Having ADHD

There are some surprising benefits to being diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Strengths, or ADHD "superpowers," include high energy levels and creativity. People with ADHD can also have challenges in life, like difficulty focusing and impulsive behavior.

This article will go over some strengths that people with ADHD may have, as well as the challenges of living with ADHD.

ADHD Strengths and Benefits 

People with ADHD have physical characteristics in their brains that lead to symptoms of the disorder, including impulsive behavior and trouble paying attention.

However, these characteristics can have benefits, too. For example, even though not being able to sit still (hyperactivity) can be frustrating, research suggests that it also means people living with ADHD have higher energy levels than people who don’t have the condition.

There are other benefits to having ADHD that can touch on many aspects of a person’s life.

Individually

• Energy: A small study found that some people living with ADHD liked having more energy than other people.
• Self-awareness: The treatment for ADHD often includes therapies that help people learn to manage emotions and behaviors (self-regulation). People with ADHD often learn their triggers and patterns, as well as how to control them. In time, they may become more skilled at self-regulation than some neurotypical people.
• Self-reliance: Some people with ADHD learn how to soothe and regulate themselves (a skill that many neurotypical people can struggle with) as part of their treatment plan.
• Resilience: The ability to bounce back from difficulties (resiliency) is a predictor of success. Many parents and teachers describe kids with ADHD as being resilient.

At Work or School

• Creativity: Creative problem-solving is very important for success at school and work. Research has found that people with ADHD have more creativity and are better at idea generation than people without the disorder. This creativity can lead to outside-the-box thinking that is needed for discovery and innovation.
• Hyperfocus: Many people with ADHD become hyperfocused on things that interest them. This can lead to extreme focus and attention to detail, as well as a passion for school, work projects, and hobbies.
• Risk tolerance: People with ADHD often have a higher risk tolerance than people without the condition. In some situations, this can be beneficial. For example, a person with ADHD might be more empowered to try a solution to a problem.

In Relationships 

• Clear expectations: To cope with symptoms, many people with ADHD have open, honest conversations about expectations with the people they’re close to. This open communication benefits both people and can strengthen the relationship.
• Impulsivity: While there are situations when impulsive behavior can be a downside, qualities like impulsivity and playfulness help keep a spark alive in long-term relationships.
• Receptiveness to therapy and behavioral approaches: Many people living with ADHD are receptive to trying therapies or new approaches, which can be helpful if the relationship they are in encounters challenges.

Are ADHD Superpowers Real?

There’s been a lot of focus on the harmful symptoms of ADHD. There’s less research on ADHD superpowers, but many people with ADHD feel that they are more energetic, creative, courageous, and resilient than people who don’t have the condition.

While more research needs to be done on the benefits of ADHD, focusing on the “superpowers” can help you or your child have a more positive view of life with the condition.

Benefits of ADHD Medication 

About 62% of children with ADHD take medication as part of their treatment plan. Data on ADHD in adults is a little harder to come by, but estimates suggest that of the 4.4% of adults in the United States who have been diagnosed with ADHD, about 4.1% report being treated with medication.

ADHD medications, including stimulants and non-stimulants, can have many benefits. For example, if a person's ADHD symptoms are reduced because they take medication, they might find it easier to focus on and complete tasks at school or work.

People with ADHD who are on medication also have a lower risk for:

• Injuries
• Accidents (including motor vehicle accidents)
• Substance use disorder (addiction)
• Falling behind at school 

That said, medications for ADHD also have side effects and risks, including weight loss and trouble sleeping. Medications for ADHD also aren't right for everyone. Talk to your provider about whether it would be a safe and effective part of your treatment.

Balancing ADHD Skills and Challenges 

While there are some perks to “ADHD brain,” the negative aspects of living with ADHD are real. People with ADHD learn to strike a balance between managing the symptoms that negatively affect their lives while enjoying the positive effects of having the condition. 

Organizational Hacks

It may take some trial and error, but many people with ADHD find strategies and organizational hacks that help them in life. Therapists can work with people who have ADHD to brainstorm ideas, too.

Simple things like sticking to a schedule, putting essential items like keys in a designated spot, or taking a few minutes to meditate before starting the day can all make a difference for people living with ADHD who have a hard time staying organized.

Mental Health 

People with ADHD are at higher risk for other mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. If you begin to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety, reach out to a mental health professional who has experience working with people with ADHD.

ADHD Celebrities and Advocacy 

Organizations like CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) offer resources and support for families touched by ADHD.

In addition, many famous people have spoken openly about their challenges and successes navigating life with ADHD, including:

• Olympic gymnast Simone Biles
• Singer-actor Justin Timberlake
• Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps 
• Singer Adam Levine
• Actor Channing Tatum
• Football player Terry Bradshaw
• Singer-songwriter Lily Allen
• Director, screenwriter, and actor Greta Gerwig
• TV personality Ty Pennington
• Foo Fighter’s singer Dave Grohl
• Actor Mark Ruffalo
• Chef Jamie Oliver
• Actress Zooey Deschanel
• Media personality and business owner Paris Hilton
• Dancer Karina Smirnoff
• Astronaut Scott Kelly
• Late-night host of The Daily Show Trevor Noah

Summary

Having ADHD affects many areas of your life. Not all the effects of having ADHD are negative. Increased creativity and energy levels can be positive aspects of having ADHD.

Some people find that managing the negative effects of ADHD through medication helps them enjoy the positive aspects. Learning coping strategies to help with daily tasks like organization is also key for living well with ADHD at any age.

It’s easy to focus on the negative impacts of ADHD, but there are benefits to the condition as well. People with ADHD report being energetic, creative, courageous, and resilient. Learning how to lean into these strengths while controlling symptoms can help you reach your full potential, despite ADHD.