My son is 16 and was diagnosed with ADHD when he was 6. I asked him three questions and let him answer however he wanted — no edits, no cleanup, nothing rewritten. This is what he said.
Q: How do you feel about being diagnosed with ADHD?
When I was diagnosed with ADHD, I had mixed emotions. Part of me was confused because I didn't fully understand what ADHD was or how it affected me.
As I've gotten older, I've learned to accept it. I don't see ADHD as something that holds me back anymore. Instead, I see it as something I have to learn how to manage.
Some days are definitely harder than others, but I've realized that everyone has something they have to overcome, and ADHD happens to be one of mine.
Overall, I think having ADHD is good because it doesn't change my dreams or what I'm capable of accomplishing.
Q: How does ADHD affect your daily life?
ADHD affects my daily life in different ways, especially at school. Sometimes I'll be paying attention, and then all of a sudden my mind drifts somewhere else without me even realizing it. It can make it harder to stay focused during lessons or finish assignments as fast as I want to.
It also affects how I stay organized. There are times when I forget things, lose track of time, or procrastinate because I get very distracted. Even though that can be hard, I'm learning that using reminders, writing things down, and sticking to a routine make a big difference.
Outside of school, ADHD doesn't stop me from doing the things I enjoy. When I'm playing football or reselling things, I become really focused.
Every day is different, but I'll keep building good habits and taking baby steps to become 1% better.
Q: What words of advice/encouragement would you tell other kids your age?
The first piece of advice I'd give is to take life one day at a time. There will definitely be days when you feel down, but focus on becoming a better version of yourself every day. Progress is more important than being perfect.
Also, don't feel guilty or afraid to ask for help. There are always people who want to support you. Asking for help doesn't make you weak—it shows that you're willing to grow.
Most importantly, believe in yourself, even when things get difficult. ADHD doesn't decide your future. Your effort, attitude, and determination do.
Keep working hard, stay confident, and never let anyone tell you what you're capable of achieving.
— JY, 16 years old
If you're a parent raising a kid like mine, or a kid like JY — you're not alone in this.