Celebrating rather than stigmatising ADHD

The Progressive Therapeutic Collective in Perth/Boorloo is a therapy practice that celebrates neurodiversity, rather than stigmatises it.

Many of our practitioners are neurodiverse, so we have a lived understanding of what it might be like to live in a neurotypical world.

We will never encourage our clients to ‘mask’ or act like anything other than their authentic selves.

We don’t see ADHD as a ‘disorder’; rather, we see it as a different form of executive functioning.

ADHD or ‘Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder’, is a neurological condition that affects many people around the world. Typically, ADHD is understood through a medical model that focuses on treating the symptoms of the ‘disorder’ with medication. Whilst medication can be really helpful and we’re certainly not against it within our practice, we also believe its useful to look at a broad range of approaches to living in a neurotypical world.

One way to understand ADHD outside of the medical model is to view it as a form of neurodiversity. Neurodiversity recognises that people have different brain structures and functions, and that these differences should be celebrated rather than pathologised. By viewing ADHD as a form of neurodiversity, we can begin to appreciate the unique strengths and talents that people with ADHD bring to the table.

For example, people with ADHD often have exceptional creativity, problem-solving skills, and a unique way of thinking that can lead to innovative ideas and solutions. By embracing and celebrating these strengths, we can help people with ADHD build confidence and self-esteem, and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive society.

Another way to understand ADHD outside of the medical model is to focus on environmental and social factors that can contribute to ADHD symptoms. For example, many people with ADHD have difficulty with focus and attention in traditional classroom settings, where they are expected to sit still and concentrate for long periods of time. By creating more flexible and accommodating learning environments that take into account individual differences and needs, we can help reduce the impact of ADHD symptoms and support the success of people with ADHD.

Overall, understanding ADHD outside of the medical model requires us to shift our focus from viewing it as a disorder that needs to be fixed, to recognizing it as a unique aspect of human diversity that should be embraced and celebrated. By doing so, we can support the success and well-being of people with ADHD, and create a more inclusive and accepting society for all.