“My Proudest Moment as an Adult With ADHD Was…”
We asked “What was your proudest moment as an adult with ADHD (or the parent of a child with ADHD)?” Here are some of our favorites.
I am an RN on a busy hospital floor, and I was so proud when I received compliments about my patient care and empathy. When I’m at work, I’m able to focus my thoughts and ADHD energy on my patients, so my “disability” allows me to give better care.
—Amara T., Indiana
Accepting and learning to laugh about the way my mind works, and being able to share my ADHD journey with my kids. They beam when they teach me to look at something “using my ADHD goggles.”
—Amy, Australia
I had a couple of moments last year when I was overwhelmed and stressed. I recognized my feelings and chose to let something go instead of beating myself up about it. I consider those victories.
—Barbara Ives, Arlington, Massachusetts
Getting all A’s in grad school, after struggling in high school and being on probation during my undergrad years.
—Heather, Iowa
When our son is calm and grounded enough to show concern for someone else, from the heart.
—Jamie, Colorado
When my son found a book series that he liked, and, as a result, his reading grades skyrocketed. Reading on a Kindle proved to him that he could read well, and his self-confidence improved.
—Diane, Peoria, Illinois
My proudest moments were running the elementary school’s Fall Festival and, when things went wrong, staying calm. That would have never happened before taking medication. I remember stopping for a moment that night and thinking to myself, “Wow. I’ve really got this. I’m doing a good job.” It was amazing.
—Beth Eiteljorge, Terre Haute, Indiana
My proudest moment was finishing the first two essays assigned by my teacher after I started taking ADHD medication.
—Hannah Adam, Langley, British Columbia, Canada
When I learned to embrace who I am, ADHD and all. Being diagnosed with the condition isn’t something to hide. It’s something to be proud of. I am a stronger person because of my ADHD.
—Leah, Atco, New Jersey
Being sober for three years, maintaining my relationship with my two amazing children, and growing as a person.
—Jess, Los Angeles, California
Writing a business plan for a company I want to start to help adults with ADHD.
—Jeanne Papish, Phoenix, Arizona
After nearly two decades of switching majors and getting horrible grades, I earned my bachelor’s degree with a 4.0 in my program, while working full-time.
—Kate, Ohio
Whenever I stop and evaluate a situation instead of overreacting to it. In those moments, I know what it’s like to be normal.
—Kathleen Rose, Cleveland, Ohio
Being able to have a relationship with my mother.
—Nicole Kotrick, Warner Robins, Georgia
