Michael Phelps, the Olympic Gold Medalist swimmer, is another ADHD success story. His mother is an advocate for not only her son but for others who are dealing with ADHD.  In a Time On-line article  she talks honestly about what teachers had predicted for her son: 

"In kindergarten I was told by his teacher, ‘Michael can't sit still, Michael can't be quiet, Michael can't focus.'  I said, maybe he's bored.  The teacher said that was impossible. "He's not gifted," came back the reply. "Your son will never be able to focus on anything."   

It is clear that this teacher was wrong. 

I am betting that a lot of children and adults are told similar things following their diagnosis of ADHD.  Yet the truth of the matter is that there is hope for a bright future.  Don't let anyone take away your dreams just because you have this diagnosis.  As you can see, there are many people, famous or not, who go on to lead productive and happy lives despite having ADHD.  And you or your child can too.

Whether you are an adult who has ADHD, or a parent of a child who has this disorder, ADHD Central can be of help and support to you.  Let me just highlight some links which can give you both information and guidance to cope with this diagnosis. 

If you feel you or your child may have some of the signs of having ADHD but you just aren't sure then please take a look at our SYMPTOMS page to find out more information.   

If you would like some tips about what to do after your child is diagnosed with ADHD please follow this link for guidance.   

The treatment for ADHD is usually a combination of medication and behavior management. To find out more about the different ADHD medications please follow this link.   And here is where you may find information about behavioral techniques.   

If you have a child who has been diagnosed with ADHD here are some parenting tips.  

Adults who have ADHD can find information and guidance geared for adults right here. 

Remember that if you or your child has been diagnosed with ADHD that this label does not foretell the future.  Nobody has a crystal ball so please don't listen to the people who tell you what you can and cannot do.   Please feel free to use our site to gain both information and support for what you are going through.  And know that you are not alone in this!