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ADHD, autism or complex trauma? [pdf]

228 points · 265 comments · skeptical1884

  1. jghn · · focus · HN ↗
    > A diagnosis of ADHD or autism in adulthood often leads to incredible relief and grief in processing all the moments of being blamed and shamed for what was assumed to be a lack of effort, laziness and/or defiance.

    I never understood this sentiment. It's just who I am and always have been. And I learned to deal with the circumstances. I don't understand why it makes people feel better to have a diagnosis they can blame.

    Perhaps it's a generational thing? I know as a manager it's pretty common for reports to cite them having ADHD as why they can't do this or that. Meanwhile I mentally roll my eyes thinking, "no shit, me too, but I manage to get this done"

    1. HighNunChicken · · focus · HN ↗
      Sounds like bad management. Explanations aren't excuses, they're simply the reason something happens.

      ADHD is often an executive function disorder. As a manager, have you offered them an accommodation?

      Lots of “I” statements from you and not a whole lot of understanding.

      1. jghn · · focus · HN ↗
        > have you offered them an accommodation?

        Yes, and that wasn't my point. Except for one case who was definitely abusing the situation, I never once revealed that my inner monologue was pointing out that I have the same issues they do but I don't use it as an excuse for not getting my work done.

        1. x______________ · · focus · HN ↗
          > but I don't use it as an excuse for not getting my work done.

          Maybe it's not just a label as your are painting it, but rather a complex situation over ones entire life with many layers, which cannot be easily understood in a short time (and much less in a manager-employee conversation).

          1. jghn · · focus · HN ↗
            We're talking about a circumstance where it's something I personally have dealt with, for longer, often decades longer, than the people who are complaining about it to me. It's not as if I don't understand the situation.
            1. [deleted] · · focus · HN ↗

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