By Rebecca Tu ’25
Despite ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) often being seen as a sign of low intelligence, what many people don’t know is that ADHD is quite a double-edged sword. The term “ADHD” encompasses a variety of symptoms and behaviors, including hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. It is known to have a worldwide prevalence of 5%; however, studies show that it is likely that at least 25% of people have significant symptoms.
Yet, until recently, many people dismissed ADHD as a fad or an “American invention” created as an excuse for kids who lacked discipline, were lazy, and had incompetent parents. The reason for this is justifiable because, at least from an outsider’s point of view, ADHD does look a lot like an excuse merely made to dodge responsibility. The term “ADHD” itself is pretty ambiguous. Contrary to common belief, individuals with ADHD don’t suffer from a deficit of attention; instead, they are equipped with an abundance of it. Thus, it is essential to note that ADHD is not an excuse to cut down on responsibility. It can be a potent weapon to learn how to take responsibility more effectively if handled correctly.
In other words, with every strength that ADHD provides comes a flip side of the coin. Curiosity challenges distractibility. Persistency challenges stubbornness. Originality challenges daftness. But whether we see learning differences, such as ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and dyspraxia, as a positive or a negative asset is a choice. And rather than dwelling upon the challenges we cannot change, let’s say we opt for optimism. In light of this, it is vital to consider the impact of academic environments and the strategies schools implement to help students develop coping mechanisms and self-awareness.
At the Frederick Gunn School, it is estimated that around 20% of students are enrolled in the school’s Center of Academic Excellence Program (CAE). The program specifically caters to students with learning differences and provides them with tools and strategies to harness their attention and use it to their academic advantage. The program is readily accessible to all students looking for support beyond the classroom to encompass their social, emotional, and personal lives.
