What Exactly is Neurodiversity?

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The neurodiversity movement has been around for some time, but what exactly is it? In this video, we talk about what the neurodiversity movement is and how it's linked to the autistic community.
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RESEARCH provided by: Farah Mahmud, M.S. Doctoral Candidate, Clinical Psychology
Research consultant: Dr. Patrick LaCount
Judy Singer's book: www.amazon.com/dp/B01HY0QTEE
blog: neurodiversity2.blogspot.com/...
Citations Links:
www.amazon.com/NeuroDiversity...
Den Houting, J. (2019). Neurodiversity: An insider’s perspective. Behavior Therapy, 23(2), 271-
273.doi.org/10.1177/1362361318820762
Den Houting, J. (2019). Neurodiversity: An insider’s perspective. Behavior Therapy, 23(2), 271-
273. doi.org/10.1177/1362361318820762
Reference Links:
realtalktherapypdx.com/neurot...
emmashopebook.com/2013/02/11/...
www.authenticallyemily.uk/blo...
www.forbes.com/sites/drnancyd...

[@garrettwhite8413]

So grateful to be living in a time where this is talked about as openly as it is, and here's to even more openness surrounding mental health. Thank you for everything you do!

[@GlenHunt]

It almost feels like diversity is more normal than "normal".

[@HowtoADHD]

Right?? It takes away so much of the shame to be able to talk about this stuff with people who can relate :)

[@Whatever-mx3bt]

@@HowtoADHD Thank you so much btw, your videos and others has helped me understand I have had a misdiagnosis for years and improper medication, I am on hold for a re-evaluation soon! I have been struggling too long and was gaslit to make me believe it was just always my fault for my issues.

[@dasaggropop1244]

i wish we had this 20-30 yrs ago

[@GlenHunt]

@@Whatever-mx3bt Even if you end up going full-circle with re-diagnoses, it's a journey that will educate the one to whom it matters most: YOU. I really hope your re-evaluation goes swimmingly and provides you with a buffet of awesome info!!

[@ambermoon2326]

As someone with ADHD, shout out to my university professors that never yelled or scolded me for drawing pictures as they taught, and recognized that even if it didn’t look like i was paying attention, i was still able to get good grades in their class. They let me do what i needed to do in order to succeed, and i really appreciate it. Their acceptance helped me develop a love for school and learning, even when a typical school setting can be a nightmare for someone with adhd

[@alyssapisani]

I was knitting in lectures sometimes last term in college. My profs knew I was a good student and I was very open about my ADHD with them so that we could have that dialogue, and they never had any issues with it. A few times I would get asked what I was working on!

[@Chaotic_Pixie]

That's how I feel about the professors that let me play with yarn.. because giving my brain something to kinda focus on let me actually focus on their words... for those who saw that when I had a standing meeting with them my focus improved... because I thrive on accountability.

[@rev.rachel]

My comp sci professor in undergrad straight up let me knit in class. It was perfect. And my high school calculus teacher let me practice for math contests instead of paying attention to the lectures because I'd already learned most of it. Her daughter was neurodivergent, so she got it. It was invaluable to have her as an advocate.

[@ambermoon2326]

@Teamgeist Psychology and counseling, which, yes, is probably a huge reason for them not saying anything

[@Chizuru94]

That's awesome

[@lunarbyul]

Living with adhd has taught all of us that most of "the rules" and "structures" are not curated for people like us and the things we're expected to do in order to be considered respectable individuals in our societies are mostly things we struggle with, so learning about neurodiversity has definitely helped me feel validated and seen. Now instead of getting mad at myself i think of ways i can change my environment to match my neurological system.

[@gringa23]

I love how she is helping me to work with my brain instead of against it.

[@lunarbyul]

@@gringa23 exactly!

[@misslis191]

YES! realising you can change your environment is a gamechanger

[@nicob8705]

Super random but I noticed your profile pic and saw Hwabyul!! Honestly I feel so happy to find fellow moomoos in different parts of KZbin being outspoken, it's a nice thing I've notice from our fandom ❤ In case anyone sees this, please go check out Lunatic by Moonbyul and Make Me Happy by Wheein!!

[@user-pt5cl2ro6f]

It would be so easy if my own family aren't sabotaging the environment changes I creat for myself. It doesn't even bother them, it's just not "the normal way" for them to do things.

[@Darksomnium]

I was diagnosed with adhd when i was 6 and ever since then ive been on medication. throughout the 29 years of my life pretty much everyone i have encountered treated me like adhd wasnt real and i was just lazy, only in the last 2-3 years am i seeing people take it more seriusly and that is wonderful! but, it feels like its hard to really understand my own brain sometimes as ive lived all of my life thinking "i just need to be better" and not actually identifying how my brain is different from people who don't have adhd. long story short, thank you for these videos, they have helped me learn things about myself that i never thought i would know.

[@HowtoADHD]

I feel this in my SOUL. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@GoADHDGo]

Read your comment then went to your channel and DAAAAAAAAAAAAANG! Straight fire!

[@Darksomnium]

@@GoADHDGo thank you so much! :)

[@alyssapisani]

Even when I realized at 21 that I had ADHD thanks to ADHD TikTok, my mom (an RN) kept bringing up that maybe I was just making excuses for being lazy. My answer was always that "a lazy person doesn't avoid writing an essay by cleaning their entire room at 3am". Long story short, I got diagnosed last year at 22 and shortly after, my DAD got diagnosed at 52!! I figured that he had it and so did he after I educated him on it, but my doctor actually picked it out in him and recommended he come in to be assessed.

[@duncanbug]

I’m the same age as you and was diagnosed at 6 too. But my parents never medicated and never told me. I started this year at 29 and it’s been pretty great. Still trying to find the right meds but already an improvement. This channel is super helpful too! Just taking meds on their own doesn’t help with strategies or acceptance! I know what you mean!

[@melissagreen6271]

Advocacy is so very important. I just recently got a diagnosis of ADHD at 41 years old. Why? Because I’m so good at masking? Yes, partially, but more importantly because most people didn’t understand that adhd can “look” different for everyone. So because I didn’t “seem adhd,” in their mind, I was blamed for my struggles. I’m just now trying to tackle the years of trauma that brought. I’m so proud of all of you who are educating about this! ❤️

[@SamirCCat]

I even read the diagnostic criteria of ADHD, still didn't think I had it for decades. Neither did my family. Then I understood what ADHD-primarily inattentive (ADD) was, and boy, did the penny drop! I was very close to NOT getting a diagnosis after the assement, but I argued against it and they did a re-evaluation and a computer test which showed severe ADHD-I. Us "non-typical" cases must also be recognised! I got my diagnosis at 33 and medication has helped me TONS!

[@j426s73]

I just got a diagnosis of ADHD in my 40s too. I guess I was good at making too. But thankfully not good enough that my boss didn't notice signs in me. She opened my eyes and I am very thankful for that. 😊 I have learned so much over the last couple of months about myself.

[@melissagreen6271]

@@j426s73 I started noticing signs when I thought my son may have adhd. The more I started researching, the more things seemed to click for me. I’m so glad I got a diagnosis so that I can (hopefully) make the world a little easier for him. I never want him to feel like I did growing up. I can encourage his strengths and make sure he doesn’t think of it as a negative thing, just a unique one.

[@SamirCCat]

@Maxie Plays RPGs Especially in girls!! I always thought ADHD was boys who couldn't sit still, not girls who sat glued to the chair for hours on end, completely endorsed in their fantasy world or writing. I always thought people with ADHD had difficulties in school, but I am gifted and had great grades. This masked my ADHD! I always felt school was easy, but instead of skipping the easy assignments I had to do them FIRST, and then go to the difficult ones. So I had to calculate 15 easy math questions even though I had already understood the principle, and this was boring and took time (I'm really bad at calculating in my head because of short working memory, but equations are easy and fun!), and then I never had to the time to do the difficult math questions. Never had a thought this could be giftedness + ADHD, I just thought I was smart, but not as smart as I wanted? Thing is, I was in the psychiatric care for 17 YEARS before I got my ADHD diganosis. And it took 11 years to get my bipolar diagnosis. I'm never a typical case of anything...

[@shelbymichelle5559]

@@j426s73 oh wow you have a great boss!!!

[@NFDIH]

Thank you. I am deaf, autistic with ADHD. Everyday I face difficulty challenge. No one ever understand me what I been through.

[@s_c8663]

sorry that people don't understand I will admit that I'm neurotypical and not deaf so I probably can't understand your struggles either but I'm glad you're doing this research on your own and hope you know you're not alone. There seem to be a lot of people with the same conditions here in the comments section so you are definitely not alone. things will get better not magically but they will I hope you have a nice day :> sorry if it sounds like I'm treating you like a child I'm not I just have that effect

[@CBReptiles1]

There’s people with those 3 things out there. Not many albeit, but seek them

[@animationtv426]

Average Liverpool fan

[@susansacco7583]

💕

[@theresawyman3789]

Was literally just diagnosed with ADHD today at 31 years old so I am very grateful for videos like this. THANK YOU.

[@randomhuman_05]

CONGRATS!!

[@HowtoADHD]

!!! OH MY GOSH HI how are you feeling??

[@GoADHDGo]

Welcome to Club ADHD! We meet every whenever.

[@Chaotic_Pixie]

I was diagnosed in September at 35. There's a honeymoon phase of suddenly realizing why so many things about you are the way they are... then a frustration phase as others don't seem to "get it" as you try to explain until you're blue in the face why you struggle with some things and you're not "lazy" or "blind". Sharing videos from this channel has been a game changer for me. I recommend creating a playlist so they're easy to find and refer to when you need to explain something to someone.

[@jakeq3530]

I was just diagnosed at 31 as well! The meds have had an immediate positive effect on me. I have actually taken back up learning computer programming. Something I have put off and slacked at for the past decade. It's just good to know that there is an explanation for the troubles I have had throughout life. Looking back I would've done soooo much better in school had I been diagnosed at a younger age. I'm excited for the future now though and my depression and anxiety has improved which was crippling at one time. 🍻

[@FrL659]

Thank you a million times for saying : “The potential handicap does not come from the way our brain is functioning, it comes from the social and physical environment we are exposed to “

[@Swimdeep]

I recommend your channel often; your explanation of different aspects of ADHD is very user-friendly and much appreciated. -A neurodiverse fan 🌀

[@GoADHDGo]

She's kinda a buncha awesome.

[@HowtoADHD]

@@GoADHDGo d'aww

[@GoADHDGo]

@@HowtoADHD Oh like you already didn't know that, Lil Miss Million Subscribers. :)

[@cuttingmotions3636]

Is anyone here rh negative blood type btw??? I m making a survey to find out the possible connection between blood type factor and brain Function.

[@HeraclitusThoughtBubbles]

My son has adhd, ocd and asd. In ballet, (yes ballet) when he was 6,7, he would be in the corner of the classroom spinning on his butt or staring out the window or messing with his leotard. The instructor was worried. I was interested in how this was going to work out. (I used to sleep in algebra class only to wake up for the pop quiz and ace it). Spring recital came along, and here came my son, perfect in his place in line with the other dancers, spinning at the appropriate times, leaping when his leap came, and exiting on time with the music. He’s my favorite person.

[@CombatChicken]

Hey Jessica, your videos have really inspired me a lot. After struggling my whole entire life I decided to talk to a therapist to see where everything came from. We got nothing specific other than "my life sucks, everything is hard and I can't keep a job". I did not know what ADHD was other than being hyperactive. When I saw some of your videos I could really relate and asked my therapist if we could do the testings. I went ahead and told my parents who quickly responded with "Don't get yourself tested, we already know you don't have it.". And let me tell you, it hurt. A couple of weeks pass and I haven't started the tests yet. Me and my parents had a serious conversation after I got emotionally unstable in an argument. My parents told me they didn't get me tested even though the school advised it. All because someone at my moms work told her that ADHD does not exist. I couldn't believe what I heard. All the fights over the last couple of years was all stuff that could've been prevented if only they had me tested. My sister (problematic youth counselor) then joined the conversation stating that I do indeed have a lot of symptoms that could indicate ADHD. So we ended the conversation and I headed home, where I was immediately greeted with a phonecall to not get me tested because they again claimed to already know I didn't have it. I was even more let down at that point. But I persisted and went through. They eventually caught wind and I had a long conversation with them explaining how much it would mean to me to get tested. I demanded (in a nice way) that they would pay for the tests since they disregarded the schools advice anyway. 6 days ago, I finally had my results. I scored 100/100 on all the questions to the form I had to fill out, to which my psychiatrist told me "I am not saying you're lying but we've never had these types of results." and then continued "So when we checked your sisters form, she also scored that high on all the questions.". I remember feeling totally out of it. I did not know what to think and what to feel, I was happy to know it was indeed diagnosed and I felt really sad because my life could've been totally different. I could have had a stable social life, I could have held onto jobs, I could have not wasted money on impulse purchases, would've been able to get relationships going. I could've done so much more. When I got home I started crying. Eventually called my doctor to start the medication and booked my next appointment with my psychiatrist. When I noticed the meds are "working" and the symptoms were just a little bit lighter I also broke down in tears. I'm not saying the meds are a magic solution but I can live with what little they're doing now, knowing I can still have the meds looked into to see if they need to be changed or not along with seeing my psychiatrist. Your videos have helped me out a lot. To understand who I am and what I have. I am really grateful for you and from the bottom of my heart do I wish you all the best things you can ever achieve.

[@willbephore3086]

I'm so sorry for this health gaslighting from your parents for so long!!!! That is legitimately awful. :( Really impressed with you for actually making it happen though, and continuing in your education and support with therapy and with other resources like this channel. You've got this.

[@StarbrightBaby]

So glad you pursued the tests...everybody always acts like thier the expert on you but really you know what's Best for you and work on building up your self esteem bc Lord knows you've been tore down and insulted and made fun of at everybody's expense you poor thing. I got diagnosed at 29 and now am having the hardest time finding a psych doctor

[@AreEia]

Damn, that is rough :/ Proud of you for deciding to "go against the grain" and get tested, and just want to say that you do have a somewhat windy and long road ahead of you. One thing that helped me a lot when dioagnosed at 21, was to seek out a therapist and work out a lot of the harmful perspectives and ideas I had gathered troughout my years. Wholly recoomend that you do this. But I would also like to say, that is does not help in any way if you start to think that "if only this or that, I could have had a "normal" life". With ADHD or ADD you more than likely would never have been "normal" anyway. But there is a big difference between accepting and learning about your brain and how things affect you, compared to not understanding why you cant process or just "do things" in the way that other can. B est wishes and luck on your journey forward :) It is a weird and winding road, but every single tool you can put in your "toolkit" to manage your day better does help. Stay awesome fam! :)

[@joshpoi886]

Looked at the comment length and decided I can’t read it due to ADHD. Except, I don’t actually have ADHD, it’s just a really long comment

[@julianmorrin6999]

The "ADHD isn't a thing" tend to be pretty much against rational argument (generalising hugely) - but for those that are willing to listen or learn, then point out that apart from brain scans that can show the divergence, there are specific genetic markers that can be used to see whether ADHD exists in people. And these markers are present throughout the history of mankind (and were a positively selected trait for much of humanity's history). Apart from the Neurodiversity movement, there is also a school of thought that ADHD isn't a disorder, merely an example of evolutionary pressure at play. ADHD is a "hunter" gene, and modern society is based on "farmer" normality (sit for long periods of time and do repetitive tasks).

[@zoecabrera9229]

I love these videos not just because they help me understand my own brain, but also for the fact that they are always brilliant when someone asks me questions about my ADHD or to explain ADHD in general, my forever go-to videos to share with them. Thank you as always Jessica!!! :)

[@IzzySarru]

Anxiety is a state of being for me, but I definitely feel a ramp up when I tell people I have ADHD. I think most people still just view it as not being able to pay attention to things or being hyper, and that's the best case scenario. The worst being they think it's made up for people who want to excuse their laziness. It's nice that stuff like this is getting more attention nowadays.

[@shelbyroot6061]

try 8d music to calm down it helps me alot

[@PuppyLuv2504]

My son has ADHD and some other learning disabilities. I myself have anxiety and depression. You're channel is really informative and comforting. It feels good to know that being different is okay and that we aren't alone. :-)

[@cetaceans4progress375]

Your channel has really helped me implement lifestyle changes to help live with my ADHD. As well as help me be more patient with myself & have more confidence.

[@HowtoADHD]

Aw!! Thank you for sharing! The patience part is a hard thing to learn, kudos :D

[@KittRembo]

As someone with ADHD and a stutter, this resonated with me so much. I’m not sure if having a stutter would be considered neurodiverse but a lot of these fit well with it and influences how people who stutter see themselves in the world. ADHD and anxiety influence one’s own perception of themselves and can even make it worse for those with stutters because on top of getting super anxious in social situations, negative societal reactions to our stutters (no matter the diversity in intensity) can make us learn and grown up having to mask in order to not let on that we talk differently. Just wanted to provide an interesting insight into how neurodiversity plays a role in having a stutter as well. Just with the acceptance of autism these days I feel like people who stutter still have a ways to go although the acceptance movement has been very vocal which I love so much. It helped me so much these last five years!

[@riltalk4055]

Hey yo!! I have adhd and stutter also!😂

[@alisaspilde6244]

I talked with a speech therapy student from Austin who said her professor was a large advocate for stuttering and had a more acceptance based viewpoint - and going against stifling/curative approaches from what it sounded like. Might be interesting to check out more.

[@Sonia-rh9fp]

i don't hear dysgraphia that much! as a person with dysgraphia when my teachers speak about things like this they always forget it!

[@marielredwall3052]

That was an amazing succinct way of describing how neurodiversity advocates can affirm brain differences and encourage seeking supports that make our lives easier to live.

[@JoseAlvarezV]

I'm a huge fan of your channel, your videos have helped me organized myself a lot, and it's been difficult I'm not diagnosed with ADHD but the techniques truly help me get organized.

[@marydion7872]

My dad has self diagnosed ADHD, and we think I've inherited it. I started working on getting diagnosed last week. Either way, your videos help so much. They help when I'm trying to get over the wall of awful and distract me from the fact that I'm doing something I don't want to do. They are also helping my mom understand and get less frustrated while she's dealing with me or my dad. Thank you so much. You're so amazing.

[@joshpoi886]

This is the problem with “diagnosing.” You’ve already decided you have ADHD and just want someone to tell you that, if they disagree it’s because they’re wrong. Diagnosing, then, becomes pointless

[@theblaze5530]

@@joshpoi886 how tf do you ever get checked for it then?

[@youraveragemexorican]

@@joshpoi886 without an official diagnosis you can’t get accommodations or a 504 plan, so there is a point, actually

[@laremabella]

​@@joshpoi886everyone is saying they have ADHD these days 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@joshpoi886]

@@theblaze5530 Didn't see the question for a year. I am a psychiatrist myself btw. The most important thing anyone who is interested in this diagnosis should consider is this. That is, that every single person I see for an ADHD evaluation has already talked to a friend, family, or co-worker or looked up the symptoms online, thought about their life, and decided this fits me. So it ends up being the case, that everyone is saying the exact same things. But, everyone can't have ADHD. There has to at least be some people, who think that they have ADHD, are showing some symptoms of ADHD, and yet do not have ADHD. So how does one go about that. That is the question everyone needs to answer, which I talk about with to people whos see me.

[@Chaotic_Pixie]

I respectfully request that you do an audiobook version of your book. I'm sure it'll be clear and concise given the brain it is writing, but i still really struggle to read books... always have the very few exceptions and I absolutely want to read yours. I'll also be sending this video to my therapist. I tried to define the word neurodiversity for her and I really struggled. Unfortunately I think its a concept that people struggle with. I also really need to thank you and your brainy cohorts in the information synthesizing and disseminating world because it if weren't for you, certain tiktokers, and certain podcasts... I don't think I would have finally gotten up the courage to get diagnosed and being diagnosed has been life changing. I feel like I understand myself better than I ever have before and I finally have words and terms to explain things I've struggled with my whole life. Please don't ever stop doing what you're doing because your advocacy has already been life changing for others.

[@salo6724]

I have two comments on the editing on this video: 1. The more critical one: The way the background switches constantly behind the Wondrium logo in the very beginning and at around 3.50 is nauseating to me, I wonder whether others feel the same? 2. The more positive one: I love that when Jessica is reading out the quotes, the highlight actually moves at her pace, pausing when she breathes, and resuming when she does, it's somehow really satisfying. What a great moment to thank the entire team behind How to ADHD for their efforts, thanks y'all :D

[@HowtoADHD]

Thanks for the feedback! It helps!

[@GoADHDGo]

The background switching reminds me of old Nickelodeon commercials. It doesn't bother me because it's short but if the entire video had that background, I might get a little wonky.

[@Twistedcrescendo]

Finally, with the help of some loved ones literally setting up the call for me, I am en route to an ADHD evaluation (After procrastinating it for literal years). Probably gonna take a year or three, given the state of mental healthcare in my country, but I finally got started on it!

[@HowtoADHD]

Progress!! YES well done! It is NOT an easy thing to navigate, good job :)

[@rimuruslime23]

My appointment is in march! ADHD and ASD evaluation!!! Im a huge procrastinator too 😬

[@cpeace3172]

@@rimuruslime23 mine is the beginning of May. A long wait…. I hope I don’t forget lol

[@raapyna8544]

Does it take that long? How many visits? I have my first doctor visit in february.

[@OrafuDa]

@@rimuruslime23 Omg, you got an appointment for both diagnoses? Well done! - Psst, how did you do it? And would that also work for me in the UK? Btw, my ADHD assessment will probably be in August. But then again, they just asked me to confirm via email that I still need the assessment, or I will be kicked off their list. And my confirmation email wasn’t acknowledged with a reply from them. 🤦‍♂️ - Very ADHD unfriendly. Probably need to confirm with their overwhelmed phone service too. 🤦‍♂️ 🤷‍♂️

[@ModernPolitic]

As someone with both ADHD and Dysgraphia, thank you for including Dysgraphia in this presentation. I've literally never seen it included before outside of a textbook or while I was being diagnosed.

[@cinnamaricat]

whenever someone says that they have adhd or think they do i reccomend this channel bc i think that it's very helpful in learning more about how our brains work i was in a psychiatric hospital last week and during one of the groups i used this channel as an example to show how adhd works by using something i saw here (the walking your dog holding an empty coffee mug example from the house tour lol) even the other paitent who was diagnosed found it helpful and someone who said he thinks he has adhd wrote down the channel name bc i said it should help him figure out if he needs to go see a doctor about it i'm very happy that i can use your channel to help others understand what's going on with their brains as well as learn more about my own thank you so much 💕

[@MrWilliamcheng]

I like the fast pace of her videos. I usually set video speed faster and I move one clip to other videos or other topics before finishing one.

[@ahainjay]

Today at work I confided in my manager that I am new to my ADHD management journey (received a diagnosis about 3 months ago, I'm 33). I feel like sending him a link to this video would articulate so much more clearly what I was having challenges expressing because it was such an emotional and personal share!

[@MarquisOfHartington]

Love the glasses analogy...it's one I often use myself. Sometimes the lights switch on for people when you ask them, "Do you think glasses are overprescribed?" For me the hardest thing is getting healthcare providers to treat ADHD as the high priority it is. I have had doctors outright refuse to treat me because of some potential risk factors posed by stimulants--as though huge harm to daily quality of life is negligible. My local pharmacy even abruptly stopped stocking my medication because "you're the only one who takes it and it's not worth it to us to order it just for you." I somehow doubt they'd say this to someone with any other condition...

[@abigailsmith6977]

I had a doctor accuse me of being a drug abuser when I asked for ADHD medication. I had an official diagnosis, I wasn’t just asking out of nowhere! I left the appointment without paying and cried in my car.

[@ALADDIN22091978]

A great video, I believe, neurodiversity is a social movement to advance people who have dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD, autistic, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, irlen syndrome, around 1 in 5 people. It enables neurodiverse to have better rights, recognition, acceptance , advancement etc .

[@ColorJoyLynnH]

Jessica, you are a gift. All of you. My husband believes I think differently for a reason now, after just watching 2 of your videos. He found your friendly home video accidentally, and I had him watch the “easy meals” one. So glad you showed yourself when overwhelmed... saying “this is hard.” I say that every night that I cook. He always thought I should just do it and get it over with... but now he gets it more. I love you. I love your work. Thank you.

[@tigerfalco]

Thank you How To Adhd. I dont know if you'll ever see this, but I've been diagnosed with adhd ever since elementary school. I stopped taking meds in middle school because they took away my energy and appetite and I wasnt a fan. Last year my adhd started being more prevalent, and my depression also spiked as well. It was thanks to your Ted Talk that I didn't feel like I was such failure as this is now my 7th year being enrolled in college. I just started taking anti depressants a year and a half ago, and adhd meds ive been struggling to take again. My psychiatrist told me it was a feat that I got as far as I did unmedicated for both (about 1 year away from graduating at the end of year 5; now I'm just struggling to graduate). Even though I knew I was adhd, I never knew how much it affected my life academically and socially until I saw your videos. Really put everything into perspective, so thank you so much for all You've done, it really helped me understand myself better in a way I couldnt have done without help. ❤

[@johncayley7838]

I was diagnosed last year after learning a lot about ADHD after my son was diagnosed. I am on meds now and feel so much more aware of my brain and how it works. I was then discriminated against at work to the point where I felt obligated to quit. Now I am trying to find a job that respects neurodiversity in the workplace, or is at least tolerant of my shortcomings.

[@DrCyanic]

As a fellow brain, your videos have helped me and my fellow hearts learn more about my condition! Thank you so very much for everything!! 💝

[@wildcardproductions6010]

OH THANK GOD, THE THEME SONG IS BACK! I thought you changed it and it bothered me so much. But you didn't! Whoo!

[@HowtoADHD]

Nope! We do different music on the vlogs and maybe the occasional other type of video but I love this theme song, no plans on scrapping it :)

[@wildcardproductions6010]

@@HowtoADHD I'm glad, I love the theme song too. It's one of my favorite parts of watching your videos right below "Hello, Brains!"

[@krysmueller8694]

I am starting to suspect you read my mind when picking which videos to do next... I have a neurodiversity sticker on the way to my house, and I've currently been reading a ton about the neurodiversity movement! Thank you for your amazing video!!

[@namesrhard2]

I’m so thankful to have this channel to help me learn about how my brain works and to feel connected with other people who struggle with the same things, especially when I’ve felt very misunderstood for most of my life. I was diagnosed with ADHD a few months ago at age 17. It’s been a confusing time with a lot of ups and downs, but this channel has helped me to better understand everything and it’s inspired me to try and research ADHD professionally so that I can do something like what you guys do when I’m older. Thank you so much for doing what you do! 🙏

[@hoppizilla]

I do not understand how people could say that because something is natural no support is needed. I find that to be very illogical. I'm not a scientist I am pretty sure someone can be born with no arm or something naturally. So... however it came about they still don't have an arm...? Generally, issues are issues regardless of how they come about problems are problems. It is good that more attention is given to the neurodivergent community and I hope people start to feel better about whatever they have going on. P.S. This channel has been a good source of positive ways to think and reflect on myself and how I approach things. I have never been diagnosed with any disorders officially, but I do see some of me in this channel's information and content and I appreciate this channel's existence.

[@hallelawson7777]

Hi! I almost never comment on the KZbin videos I watch, but I just had to thank you. Today at 18 years old I just received my adhd diagnosis and it was entirely thanks to your channel. Your channel popped up in my recommended videos, and since I am interested in mental health I watched it… only to notice uncanny similarities between symptoms, stories, and my own life experiences. As an inattentive, social, and bright girl the possibility had always been previously overlooked due to perceived stereotypes. Thank you for spreading education, awareness, and giving those the courage to seek help. It changes lives. I know it has changed mine.

[@AktivePsychotherapie]

Thank you for this video and pointing out that acceptance and support can go hand in hand! I hope at some point there will be more understanding that a dysfunction in one area does not mean it's a general dysfunction. So yes, looking at one specific task (e.g. a monotonous one) there will be a dysfunction. But looking at other ones (e.g. engaging task) it will be the opposite. So depending if you zoom in at a certain aspect, it can be disabling, a strength, or just plainly different. And in the whole picture - it's all of it in one and the same person.

[@ColorJoyLynnH]

Yes!!! Describing a dopamine deficiency helps me explain to others and also helps me work around things. No wonder I can cook and clean in the kitchen more easily with a podcast going. The podcast ups my dopamine!

[@HowtoADHD]

Beautifully put!

[@carolinejameson3167]

just got diagnosed with adhd and your channel has been so informative! Thank you for everything you do Jessica! 💙💙💙

[@rowanrocklamp9178]

I was just diagnosed with ADHD this past semester (first semester in college) and it was videos like ones on your channel and having people around me who validated my struggles that I was finally able to get the help, I'm fighting disability services currently since they're not sure "if I have a disability" due to the fact that I'm the inattentive type and get good grades, it's your videos and a professor I had last semester and my therapist who kept me from doubting myself this time and giving up so thank you, I want to and would write more but I don't have the energy currently to do so but just thank you

[@RageUnicorn]

I was diagnosed with ADHD last year and instead of being upset, I was more relieved and happy that I finally had that closure and that I wasn’t actually crazy I was just struggling to function in a neurotypically built world. Also my fiancé found your content last year, a little after my diagnosis, and your videos have really helped me put things into a better perspective for myself. Keep up your amazing work!

[@IAB-lj8mb]

Congrats on reaching 1 million subs recently.

[@HowtoADHD]

Thank you!!!

[@ColorJoyLynnH]

@@HowtoADHD an additional congratulations here from Michigan. I loved the 2 hour question video. I played it on earphones and cleaned the kitchen better (while listening) than it’s been cleaned in 10 years! You are so helpful. Plus, I need to go back and listen again to make note of the times I need my husband to hear.

[@thismissivemisfit]

I was recently diagnosed with ADD at 34 years old. It feels validating because I suspected I had it since I was 17. Sorta mentioned it to my parents, just to hear what they think... and my mom had the most visceral reaction against the topic. Never brought it up again. Did well in school, but my struggles were heavier in college which effected my grades, but I was able to graduate, get a job and some working experience. And then the pandemic hit, and my ADD kicked up a notch, which made focusing much, much harder. I'm glad more awareness and willingness to talk about it is more accessible now.

[@Shadeslayer8894]

Learning about how my Neuro diverse ADHD affect my everyday life and watching these videos has made such a great impact in my life

[@SLYCoopaEatsChicken]

as someone with adhd I feel so damn grateful to autistics

[@mercable7574]

Thanks so much for your continued contribution to the neurodivergent community. I've been struggling to explain to my wife that forgetting things is something I've been struggling with since childhood and your videos help her understand a bit better.

[@KacielNolwen]

I am so thankful for this channel! And love this video cause I really think we need to make the world better for people who struggle. I only recently started talking about ADHD at work as I have younger colleagues who are struggling with it and I realise that having someone to talk to about those troubles is needed as well as informing other coworkers on the subject. Low and behold today a coworker approached me and asked if I was comfortable talking to her about it cause she doesn't know much on the subject. I recommended her this channel as a starting point and told her that when ever we both are free we can talk. Thank you for helping me help others and helping me explain things that are sometimes difficult to put into words.

[@N0Xa880iUL]

What an excellent topic for the video! This is precious.

[@bethanythatsme]

Thank you for helping me learn more about myself and how to better communicate my neurodiverse needs, both in my world & within myself. Psychology & neurology have made so many advances in my 43 years, but so many tools are cost prohibitive, even with Medicare. Also, thank you to all the lovely brains out there that have made the big ol world a lil less scary 🖤

[@FaithFashionFinances]

I was recently in a seminar where the instructor taught us about facilitating neurodivergent groups. I am fairly new as a facilitator so I am researching the topic more in depth, this is really helpful

[@breishere123]

I’m sooo happy I found this page as someone with ADHD. Ugh so eye opening and still learning so much about myself at 36

[@RosesGreen]

Hello! 👋 I recently got diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. Your videos played a big role in figuring out there was a term for what I was struggling with. Given that around the same time I started struggling in college with things that most would consider simple and with things I'd be able to accomplish in the past, it's fair to say your channel prevented me from spiraling into self-blame and reduced my anxiety surrounding my struggles. Knowledge is power, and you have empowered me. 💜

[@zonnissegivens]

I look forward to your videos. They really help with my ADHD. Love them!!!!

[@Kai-vq4qv]

I think I may have adhd but it’s so hard because my parents don’t agree, I’m failing a bunch of subjects and it doesn’t matter if I try SO hard to focus I just can’t it’s tiring and I end up having a mental breakdown, I’m tired of trying and failing, I’m tired of being told ‘to listen’ and ‘work harder’ and ‘pay attention’ I’m just tired I just want one second of peace instead of feeling like I’m not enough… I just want to be heard

[@elvoria]

my pap used to tell me, it does not matter how long it takes or how many time u read a passage. The most important thing is u understand that passage. Also understanding a passage is more important than memorize it. That's how I cope with school stuff and hope it helps.

[@ColorJoyLynnH]

I see you. I hear you. I believe you. It helps me to play soothing/safe music or birdsong or crickets when I need to be still. My brother listens to cat purring in his sound app. My sis in law likes rainfall sounds. See if you can find an app or KZbin station that plays what feels safe to you. It helps me concentrate better. Must be it increases my dopamine levels???

[@katieviolet29]

I just got diagnosed last Thursday. I don’t think I’d ever have had the courage to ask for help without your videos. Thank you.

[@RastaJediX]

Thank you. I am often ready to give up due to how hard I struggle. It's so nice to see recognition.

[@SilviyaAlipievaart]

Thank you for being so breve and share so many information! I was aways being told that I'm strange... You showed me I'm not alone and gived me straight to seek diagnosis and find help! Thank you for being you! 💙💙💙

[@jennifer1424]

I love the topic of this video- thank you! It’s something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately. Waiting on my ADHD diagnosis while managing the needs of a husband and son on the spectrum and another with ADHD and wondering what is even “normal” or neurotypical. Perhaps societal and social “norms” were simply set by those whose brains thrive in those conditions and expectations (they were likely the louder voices!) Looking forward to your book!

[@jack5117]

I really can't wait for your book to come out! Your videos have been monumental in me figuring out how to navigate my brain after being diagnosed as an adult.

[@katethegreat7333]

I just got diagnosed and medicated less than a month ago at age 29. My brothers were diagnosed at such a young age but because I’m a girl a lot of my symptoms were “character flaws”. I am so thankful for your channel and everything you do!

[@RaindropsBleeding]

I like how your videos are short to accommodate the short attention span most ADHD brains have. I often wish they were longer though because I love your channel, and I want to hear more of what you have to say

[@maxandlucky6193]

so grateful for your channel. Keep it up sis!

[@chrisscott2350]

I look forward to your book! These videos have helped me grow. as a neurodiverse (ADD) person, it's so nice to have proper resources!

[@astonbean]

This video was very helpful, I'm so glad you are educating people about this

[@sebastienroy4756]

I have been following that channel for a long time now and still appreciate the content. It has been quite helpful while being fun at the same time :)

[@haukurhannes8626]

I just got diagnosed with ADHD a few days ago, at 31 years old. This has given me a whole new context for my entire life really and your videos have been extremely helpful for me in navigating this whole thing - thank you so much for the work you do!

[@starstruck96]

I love watching your videos you're just such a sweet person. I have my alarms on so anytime you post one I'm right there watching! And always sharing to my friends 💜🙂 Thankyou for all that you do!

[@HowtoADHD]

Oh thank you! That helps us so much!!

[@LuckyL0ki]

thank you for paving the way for tons of neurodivergent folks. the work you do makes important knowledge very accessible to everyone, and it means a lot to people like me who really need to hear it. it’s the best representation we could have. your channel has helped me a lot, and i can’t wait to read your book!!!

[@chinyereehosiem8742]

Absolutely compact and insightful. Lots of useful ideas to grab in a short clip. Thanks

[@WillyVLD]

Looking forward to the book and hopefully you will also make an audio book from it as for me reading a book feels like torture :) Good luck and enjoy the writing!

[@Kellybergman7529]

Since being diagnosed as an adult I’ve been binge watching this channel, learning about how to help myself. So helpful 😇♥️

[@GoADHDGo]

I've binge watched every video on this channel TWICE and every single time I learn new stuffs. It's pretty awesome.

[@ColorJoyLynnH]

@@GoADHDGo on my 2nd binge. So helpful. Especially Wall of Awful is now a family concept and description

[@GoADHDGo]

@@ColorJoyLynnH I use “wall of awful” on a daily basis. So many walls.

[@its.just.x]

Great video as always, thank you for all you do for the ADHD/neurodiverse community!

[@HowtoADHD]

You're welcome!! And thank you so much for the sweet comment! And for watching and support us! 🧡

[@mawadatellawi4277]

Not many people know this, but I have been watching this channel since I started thinking that I might have ADHD. I relate so much to every single video, and often find them emotional enough to cry. When I asked my neurologist about it, he said that there are many symptoms in common between ADHD and BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder), which is what I have, and that these disorders are like a spectrum, too. So I might not be diagnosed with ADHD, but I still suffer from many of the same challenges that you guys do. Unfortunately, though, I do not have the superpower of hyper-focus that some of you do. Please keep it up with this content as is it amazing for someone like me to watch and see that I'm not the only one suffering from even the smallest things you describe in your videos. Much love ❤️

[@paigelarson9279]

I’m so excited for your book (atleast the idea of it since I tend to buy books but not read them 😅) & hope it will be available in Australia. As thankful as I am for my psychiatrist taking my struggles seriously enough to give me an accurate diagnosis, what I’m most thankful for is that he recommended your channel, because even with a diagnosis I would be so lost without the information I’ve learnt from you. 99% of adhd information is NOT adhd friendly, especially pre-medicated adhd, so thank you Jessica and your team from the bottom of my heart.

[@turnoffthetv]

I appreciate your channel so much as the sibling and partner of a person with ADHD. I myself am neurodiverse in other ways that have parallels to ADHD, so while I relate to them, there are differences and I find your insights so valuable. Neurodiversity and the movement to embracing divergence is exactly as you describe it. I spend every day at work advocating for myself and other for physical disabilities and neurodivergence, both for acceptance as equally valued while also being afforded the supports needed to do the best possible job. Diversity of thought is always an asset. The way I look at the "but you're forgetting that some need supports" misunderstanding is this - there's two pieces here. Bringing everyone to the table is equality. That's the acceptance of neurodiversity. Making sure everyone has the same ability to meaningfully participate is equity. That's where supports come in.

[@iza724]

I would really appreciate a video talking about where to start when discovering that you're part of the neurodivers community. Since I've discovered my ADHD I felt so l overwhelmed with all the options and since right now medication is not available to me it feels like all I have are those tools but there are so many it's overwhelming and I don't even know where to start.

[@randompersonontheinternet417]

I love your channel! I've had ADHD for 6 years, yet I've been masking it for so long that I forgot how I act without masking it. So, you sitting down and telling us about ADHD, it helps me understand what is my ADHD and isn't, so, I stop putting myself down for some things.

[@oimlysDexico]

Hi, i was diagnosed with ADHD in 2nd grade but was raised by someone who didn't believe in ADHD. So i didnt know i had ADHD until 10 years ago when i went to the doctor on my own when i turned 18 and learned i was diagnosed in 2nd grade. the diagnosis made a lot of thing make sense about why school was difficult. i was on stimulant medication for 6 years and ive been off meds for about 4 now. i really think being on medication was much better. for a month in the middle of the six years my main doc retired and my new doc wouldn't prescribe me stimulants becuase it was against her views lol so she gave me prozac. she wasnt at the facility the next day i went and they gave me the correct meds. On to my main comment. over the past year ive come to realize my brain is not visual. as of matter of fact its almost always just black in my mind. when im asked to visual a red square in my mind all i see is black. i cant even visualize my roommates face that i saw just hours ago. this is called Aphantasia. it is fairly new and was first talked about in 2010. i really feel like it falls into this topic of neurodiversity. id love to hear others experience with this.

[@s_c8663]

So you might know this already but an interesting thing I found out is that there are some artists with Aphantasia Idk why I wanted to tell you this but I felt like I needed to BTW do you thing you could draw from memory with Aphantasia? I think it's possible but I've wondered about this before because I don't know what it's like. I hope you have a nice day! :>

[@kelvinalmeda5999]

Love this channel btw. Thankyou Jess for your huge contribution to the add and adhd world as my add has aggressively impacted my life since childhood, my father has it as well but I have it worse

[@isaacwhitley2179]

I am 24 years old, and I went at the beginning of this year and got diagnosed with ADHD. I haven't been using medication long, but it is so freeing to be able to concentrate and control my impulses! Now so many goofy "mistakes" I made when I was younger make sense to me. When I was younger, people usually just blamed it on my laziness. Your channel helped me do my own research and finally get the help I needed, so thank you!

[@Ovarian_invasion]

Thank you so much for quickly and concisely you were able to explain that for me. Keep up the great work from a fellow adhd companion!

[@amineurodivergent]

Thanks so much, this is such an informative and well crafted video!

[@aliciasizov5467]

Well said! I really resonate with the idea that neurotype and disability are not mutually exclusive. I can be proud of the strengths and identity I have in my ADHD and autism, and also acknowledge the challenges that come with having these differences in a world that wasn't designed to support them. This video will make an excellent resource for helping explain that to my family!

[@DaleESkywalker]

*Checking Central Processing System for Malware*

[@HowtoADHD]

for real though!

[@tiffanyschmorleitz1500]

Can’t wait for your book :)

[@katiejones7101]

Thank you!!! You have no idea how much you have helped me!!!😭😊

[@Itsme-ik1fs]

She blinked 15 times and winked once in the whole video. I'm just kidding I stopped counting halfway. 😅

[@gmshiori]

I was diagnosed 4 months ago thanks to your TED talk 🥺 Fun fact: turned out ALL my close friends I had in my life have ADHD 🙈

[@saggguy7]

anybody else wish we had a descriptive word for our diagnosis instead of having to say that we “have” a disorder? Like how autistic people can just describe themselves as “autistic” instead of saying they “have autism spectrum disorder” so they don’t have to unwillingly pathologize their own brains at every turn

[@ColorJoyLynnH]

My therapist just says “Neurodiverse.” My physician said it’s a disorder only because we have struggles. One of my hardest is time blindness. I not only lose track of time, I am late when I try hard not to be and I cannot seem to figure out how long things take. So that part is really a disorder.

[@HowtoADHD]

YES 100%

[@richardbanks6637]

Your page is an excellent resource for showing that you can address neurodivergence by both accepting and respecting conditions and the challenges they bring whilst also advocating for fair treatment. Keep living this out.

[@deejed]

Heyyy! Fresh video! Let's go! Dropping everything else to watch now :)

[@HowtoADHD]

Aw thanks! Helps more people find it later cause the YT algorithm is like "oooo people are clicking so fassst must be good!"

[@sebastiend.marcoux8253]

I like that you are teaching the world what is ADHD

[@jimcallahan448]

My impatient brain appreciates how quickly you get to the point (with humor too!). It takes a lot of work (cutting extraneous stuff) to make it seem that simple.

[@leonelschtenbarg5736]

I loved it!!! Thank you so much for this great knowledge :D

[@erectwhale6941]

Thank you for being so knowledgeable

[@risw.3821]

I'm 14f and my mother is 42 and we both think we have ADHD, things we both excused in the past as just normal poor habits. It started with my mom researching and telling me, and I found this channel. We're actively trying to get diagnosed but it's pretty difficult, this video did help though as I have neurodiverse friends.

[@Lowkey_Ziva]

My teacher knows that I have ADHD but yet yells at me and rushes me in things I can’t help because of my ADHD (and anxiety) and left me almost crying I just didn’t want to get in more trouble

[@jacobyspurnger8488]

4:42 right now, because of the pandemic, a lot of university classrooms are being unused, so there is a possibility to use an actual classroom without a teach or other students.

[@asepulveda264]

This was amazing!! Good job!!