Identifying ADHD in an individual is helpful in order to get them proper treatment – whether that might be medications or natural solutions. It helps the individual understand themselves better. Labeling is another matter, and one that I feel is not helpful at all. Kids who are identified as ADHD within the greater community of elementary school, for instance, get “typecast” for want of a better word. Teachers, parents, administrators, and even other kids will expect the worst from them because of it. Of course, that’s not true of everyone, but it happens often enough.

You are right that if a child or person feels bad about themselves due to such labeling, it can be difficult to motivate them or convince them that they are capable of more. At the same time, it’s important to note that someone with ADHD will always have it; the challenge is to learn to manage it in a way that disrupts your life as little as possible.

Thanks again for commenting.