Disorder ... we've talked before how much of a negative word that is before. Yes, maybe we are "disordered," as far as being unorganized and what-not, but is ADHD really a disorder disability?
My absolutely brilliant shrink (I'm such a suck up) says that yes, it's a disorder, because very few people have it. I can buy that theory. But still ... it drums up thoughts and visions of being completely incapable. Disabled. Handicapped.
I know we're covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, but really ... what does that mean? Sure, we may struggle with certain aspects of certain jobs ... but disabled?
I suppose it's a learning disability, but that's also due in part to the way we are taught. And besides ... most of us adults managed to get by at least somewhat OK.
Does it cause us trouble in life? You betcha! It causes many problems ... organizational issues, time confusion ... all sorts of weird things ... and the worst (for me anyways) is problems with COMMUNICATION! I've gotten a lot better, but communication (and time) still baffles me.
Yet, the "disability" label still bothers me ... I guess to me, it kinda waters down the definition, ultimately hurting those who ARE truly disabled.
I take medication that is amazingly helpful, and I'm a lot more "myself" with it, but I don't know ... to me, I'm just different. That's all. Different. Not disabled, just different.
What brought me back to this subject?
An awesome video interview of John Elder Robinson, a gentlemen with Asperger's. Please watch the short video and listen carefully to what he says, then ask yourself if you think he considers himself "disabled."
John is incredibly inspiring, you can watch all of his videos here on his YouTube page.
