It's all about perseverance
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Attention, commonly known as ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental impairment wherein the brain or the central nervous system faces growth and development issues. Usually, it is detected in early childhood or the teenage years. However, the effects often unfold in adulthood. Kids with ADHD disorder often lack attention, are highly impulsive, and find it difficult to concentrate.
It is generally observed that many adults do not even know that they have ADHD because they have never been diagnosed. As a result, the symptoms start to affect both personal and professional fronts. However, symptoms take over and look different with age. Hyperactivity may look like restlessness, and impulsiveness may look like aggression.
But as we say, where there is a will, there is a way. Nothing can stop you if you decide to stick to your aim. All you need is a growth mindset. The universe is a big genie; it says, "Your wish is my command."
Listed below are the cases of a few such personalities who have inspired us all with their willpower and dedication. Check out the stories of such celebs who are living with, battling, and winning ADHD.
1. Michael Phelps
Phelps had suffered a lot at school because of ADHD. It was difficult for him to complete his schoolwork, and meeting deadlines was a pain. Sitting in the classroom was a big task for him. He always wanted to keep moving. At the age of nine, he was diagnosed with ADHD.
His peers and teachers had consistently demotivated him. This was the first time anyone ever thought he would be this successful today. Although he felt better with the prescribed medicines, the pool became his savior. The practice sessions and the calming effect of water became his coping mechanisms. At his retirement, Phelps was the most decorated Olympian of all time. He’s won 28 Olympic medals, 23 of which are gold.
2. Karina Smirnoff
This “Dancing with the Stars” performer has earned many accolades and praises for her stunning performances. But how many of us know that back in 2009, she was diagnosed with ADHD? Smirnoff is a five-time U.S. National Champion and a World Trophy Champion. She knows how to channel all her energy into dancing. “Like most adults, my schedule is very busy. My day is filled with 10-hour dance rehearsals for my television show, teaching choreography, dancing in shows, and constant travel,” she says. “With improvement in my ADHD symptoms, I can focus on finishing what I start.”
3. Howie Mandel
The famous game show host is known for his stand-up comedy, his high-spirited personality, and for his disorders. Mandel has both ADHD and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Today, the “America’s Got Talent” host has his routine sorted. Medication and therapies have become his aides, and we can see him benefiting from the same.
4. Ty Pennington
Ty wasn't known to be a very adorable child in his school days. He was the center for distraction for all other kids and was named the worst child in the class. His behavioral problems seemed atypical, and the doctors weren't sure how to treat him.
This home improvement guru was given antihistamines to make him drowsy. Now, with a controlled dosage at prescribed intervals, he still sees a psychiatrist. Pennington channels the symptoms of his ADHD into his career and his hobbies.
5. Adam Levine
Adam, as a kid, found it very difficult to sit still, complete his homework, and focus on his studies. This Maroon 5 frontman and host of “The Voice” has come a long way. Even though his parents helped him get the right treatment, he has always had trouble paying attention. He still battles his way on a day-to-day basis.
“I had trouble sometimes writing songs and recording in the studio. I couldn’t always focus and complete everything I had to. I remember being in the studio once and having 30 ideas in my head, but I couldn’t document any of them,” he wrote.
6. Justin Timberlake
In an interview, Justin Timberlake, a singer, actor, and winner of multiple Grammy and Emmy awards, said that he has OCD and ADD. However, he seems to be living with it and living successfully, mind you!
7. Paris Hilton
In an interview with Larry King, the hotel heiress and socialite Paris Hilton confirmed that, as a child, she had been diagnosed with ADD. But it looks like she has taken all the odds in stride and is doing great. Isn't it?
8. Simone Biles
The Olympic gymnast's mind-blowing performance in 2016 won hearts across the country. Her powerful tumbles and gravity-defying beam routines set hearts on fire, and she rightfully deserved the 2016 Olympic individual all-around, vault, and floor gold medals. The results of the drug test from the Olympic Committee came out positive for Biles. Methylphenidate, which is also called Ritalin, is often given to people with attention problems, like Biles.
9. Solange Knowles
Solange was unable to accept the positive ADHD results for the first time. She took a test twice. The singer, songwriter, and artist Solange Knowles visited another doctor for a second opinion. Now that she has accepted the fact, she feels the symptoms all around her. Most of the people in her circle seem to have problems with memory loss, starting something and not finishing it, etc.
It’s just a diagnosis
These highly successful celebs are a living example of how a medical disorder cannot stop you from living a full, happy life. Each one of us can battle the ailments just like they all can. The key to managing a disorder is to accept, act, and follow.
Truly inspiring.