Answer
The John’s Hopkins Psychiatry Guide defines attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as “a neurodevelopmental, chronic disorder involving a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development” (www.hopkinsguides.com, accessed 7/31/2024). Some use the label ADD to refer to symptoms that mostly involve inattention, but the clinical diagnosis is still ADHD. To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person must be adversely affected in two or more settings (e.g., home and school). The behavior stemming from ADHD is distinct from normal childhood inattention or hyperactivity, as well as from a variety of other disorders. ADHD is considered a childhood disorder in that symptoms begin before age twelve, but some people are not diagnosed until adulthood. In adulthood, those with ADHD will exhibit different symptoms than they had in childhood, and the severity of the symptoms may be lessened.
In short, ADHD is a brain and developmental abnormality that leads to challenges with attention, impulse control, and activity levels. Those challenges can result in other issues like relational strain, difficulties in school, problems with regulating emotions, and even a sense of shame or frustration. Because ADHD affects the brain, sufferers cannot simply “try harder” to concentrate or control their behaviors. However, though there is no cure, ADHD can be managed; multiple supports have proven advantageous. For example, behavioral coping strategies, adjustments to school or work environments, emotional regulation habits, social engagement, exercise, nutrition, and medication all may have a positive impact. Those with ADHD or parents of children with ADHD should work with their doctors, employers, teachers, therapists, and other healthcare resources to determine the best interventions.
With that cultural understanding of ADHD, what perspective does the Bible give us? First, the Bible says that every human is made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). Developmental abnormalities, physical differences, and behavioral or mental challenges will never change this fact. Humans have inherent dignity and worth simply because they are created in God’s image—this is true of all humans, regardless of any earthly label.
Because of the reality of the fall (Genesis 3), we expect things like brain abnormalities, disease, relational hardships, and the like. That ADHD exists is not a surprise within the biblical framework. It is also not a surprise that God has provided means of help. In His grace, God has given humanity ways to ameliorate the effects of the fall. As Christians, we can rejoice in sound medical inquiry and proven interventions. We should, of course, also be conscientious consumers. Every field of research has a particular worldview. We should be careful to ensure what is characterized as “health” is in line with biblical truth. Even within the medical and psychological fields, the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD are debated. Be wise and intentional in seeking the best treatment for your case (Proverbs 18:17; 1 Timothy 4:1–10; 2 Timothy 4:1–5; 1 John 2:15–17; 4:1–3).
We also know that we are intricately connected to spiritual reality. ADHD is not simply a brain difference or an attentional or impulse challenge to manage without thought of its spiritual impact. Those with ADHD need the gospel and discipleship as much as those without it. Believers who have ADHD are in no way lesser. All who are in Christ, regardless of background or cultural distinction, are children of God through faith (Galatians 3:26–29). The Holy Spirit indwells all who have trusted in Christ (Romans 8:9–17). He helps believers know, love, and obey God. The Holy Spirit also provides comfort in our hardships (Romans 8:18–30). All believers have access to God in prayer and are exhorted to pray regularly (Philippians 4:4–8; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Hebrews 4:14–16). Believers with ADHD are by no means alone!
Not only do believers have the indwelling Holy Spirit and access to God in prayer, but they have the Word of God to help them know who He is, who they are, and how they are to live. Studying the Bible is important for all who want to grow in Christ. Too, we have one another. Every believer, regardless of any earthly distinctive, needs the body of Christ (Hebrews 10:19–25; Ephesians 4:11–16).
The call for all believers is summed up in the command to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37–40; John 13:34–35; 1 John 3:23; 4:13–21). Scripture assigns us the duty “to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:1–2). We are to put our sin to death (Matthew 5:29–30; Colossians 3:5–8) and participate in the Spirit’s work of sanctification (Philippians 2:12–13; 1 Peter 1:3–25). We all have spiritual gifts to use for the benefit of the church (1 Corinthians 12). We are all called to live lives that reflect the reality of who God is (Colossians 3; Ephesians 4: Galatians 5).
How we follow God’s call will look different in each believer. There are a multitude of methods to love others with the agape love of God (1 Corinthians 13). Speaking truth can be done in many ways (Ephesians 4:15, 29). The way of Christ is open to all who are in Him; a diagnosis of ADHD will not change that.
Some think of ADHD as only a barrier and neglect to see the unique advantages it can bring. But consider the ways a higher energy level might lend itself to more easily inviting others into the faith. Those with ADHD might be more apt to ask questions that prove helpful to others. There is creativity in developing effective coping strategies, and that process might help those with ADHD think outside the box or more readily adapt to other cultures. Having experienced hardships themselves, those with ADHD may be more naturally empathetic and gracious (2 Corinthians 1:3–7).
As believers, we should bear with one another in love (Colossians 3:13–14; Ephesians 4:32) and help carry one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). Managing ADHD can feel exhausting, discouraging, and lonely. Believers can come alongside one another to help ease the burdens, speak truth, and encourage one another to press on. We should all be careful not to put a stumbling block before others with our words, expectations, or behaviors (Ephesians 6:4; Romans 14). We do well to follow Paul’s instructions to “encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone” (1 Thessalonians 5:14).
Resources:
www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889
www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878
mcpress.mayoclinic.org/parenting/busting-adhd-myths-helping-parents-better-understand-what-adhd-can-look-like-and-how-it-can-be-managed/
www.health.harvard.edu/blog/5-things-parents-and-teachers-need-to-know-about-adhd-2017102712643
www.hopkinsguides.com/hopkins/view/Johns_Hopkins_Psychiatry_Guide/787036/all/Attention_Deficit___Hyperactivity_Disorder
