ADHD

Aroreretini or Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological difference that relates to the way that the brain processes and focuses it's attention.

There are three main types of attention deficit disorders (ADD):

1. Hyperactive

2. Inattentive

3. Combined Hyperactive and inattentive

The Te Reo Māori term for ADHD is aroreretini, it translates to mean attention going to many things (Te Aka Māori Dictionary & C Moorfield, 2024). This is a very apt description of the experience of those with the difference. The ADD brain is constantly shifting between stimuli and may struggle to focus in busy environments such as classrooms, public spaces and workplaces. 

Additionally those with ADHD may struggle to develop executive functioning skills without direct coaching and support. 

Characteristics of the different types of ADHD 

(adapted from: https://www.additudemag.com/3-types-of-adhd/):

1. Hyperactive type (more commonly diagnosed in boys/men):

   1. Seems like they run on a motor 

   2. Difficult to sit still

   3. Fidget or wriggle constantly

   4. May talk non stop, blurt out answers

   5. Have difficulty regulating their emotions

2. Inattentive type (more commonly diagnosed in girls/women):

   1. May make mistakes

   2. Struggles to pick up on finer details when completing a project

   3. Difficult to hold attention

   4. May forget or miss information 

   5. Mislays important items such as keys, phones, school work etc.

   6. May have difficulty organising and completing activities

   7. May dislike activities that require ongoing mental effort/exertion

3. Combined type - hyperactive & inattentive

   1. Must have a combination of the above symptoms 

Super Strengths of those with ADHD:

• Hyperfocus - these individuals can focus for extended periods sometimes ignoring their own bodily needs to complete a project that has caught their attention

• Life of the party - people with ADHD can be very charming, and likeable

• Creative and quick thinkers - they can often see a bigger picture or more interesting solution to most problems 

Please find more information below on some of the webpages regarding ADHD.