by Melanee Castillo, NCC, LPC
Attention deficit-Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects 4-5% of the population. There are three components to the disorder: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity (acting or speaking without thinking). ADHD is a spectrum disorder (with ADD being included on this spectrum) that affects people in varying degrees.
Some of the symptoms of this condition include daydreaming, being disorganized and/or unfocused, lack of concentration, scattered, restless, impulsive, and mood swings. ADHD can cause trouble with managing stress, adapting quickly to change, and completing tasks. It can also lead to other health issues because of the stress it can cause.
In Romans 7:15-25, Paul’s words can give us an insight into the feelings that can accompany. the condition of ADHD. We can feel the frustration in Paul’s words. He notes his own struggle in wanting to do one thing, but but then doing something else. Like Paul, we can be frustrated and unfocused, doing what we do not want to do. This can lead us to feel helpless and disappointed. But ADHD is not who we are! The great hope for us, however, is in verse 25: “Thanks be to God who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
ADHD or ADD can lead to feelings of suffering. We can beat ourselves up, or question God’s goodness. We can even experience severe anxiety, depression, substance abuse or suicidal thoughts. But, 1 Peter 5:10 reminds us, “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast.” Even when we feel like we are suffering, God’s promise is to restore us through his Holy Spirit and through the help of others.
Because of the variety of feelings and emotions that ADHD can cause, different strategies can be implemented to help us be successful. Romans 8:28-29 tells us that even when we don’t know what to pray for, the Holy Spirit will intercede for us, in accordance with the will of God. Structure also helps, in the form of:
- having a job where you are your own boss, in order to set your own schedule of work
- daily structure and organization, eg. daily planners and prayer lists
- regular diet and sleep
- use of reminders such as sticky notes, calendars, alarms/timers
- eliminating audio and visual distractions
- If you are not able to manage, see a doctor or therapist
Finally, cling to this passage: John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” The peace of Jesus is always with us if we hold on to it as truth.
These symptom sand feelings can lead to suffering. We can beat