ADHD Needs a Better Name
Russel SmithShare
Short on time? We get it—check the TL;DR at the bottom!
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is an outdated and overly clinical term that fails to capture the complexity of this unique condition. ADHD is not just a "deficit"—it’s a combination of strengths and struggles, with enormous potential when properly understood.
Enter VAST: Variable Attention Stimulus Trait. This term shifts the focus from disorder to diversity, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the ADHD brain. It also recognizes the emotional highs and lows that are central to the condition, such as rejection sensitive dysphoria and its uplifting counterpart, recognition responsive euphoria.
Why ADHD Is the Wrong Name
The term “Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder” frames ADHD as a disease, emphasizing deficits rather than the incredible strengths that often accompany this way of thinking.
Here’s why ADHD deserves a rebranding:
- Not a Deficit: People with ADHD don’t lack attention; they have an abundance of it. The challenge lies in regulating where and when their attention flows.
- More Than Hyperactivity: Many individuals with ADHD don’t fit the stereotypical “hyperactive” mold. Adults and inattentive types, for example, experience more internalized struggles.
- It’s Not All Negative: While ADHD symptoms can be disruptive, they’re also paired with traits like creativity, curiosity, and resilience.
By renaming ADHD as VAST (Variable Attention Stimulus Trait), we can reduce the stigma and emphasize the balance of assets and liabilities that come with this unique brain wiring.
The Emotional Landscape of VAST
One of the hallmarks of VAST is its intense emotional sensitivity. This can manifest as:
- Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD): Extreme emotional pain from perceived criticism or rejection.
- Recognition Responsive Euphoria (RRE): The flip side of RSD, where positive feedback and encouragement trigger a surge of motivation and joy.
For individuals with VAST, the brain’s Default Mode Network (DMN) plays a key role in this emotional sensitivity. When idle, the DMN can spiral into negative thoughts and amplify feelings of rejection. However, when met with encouragement, this same network lights up with positivity, energizing and inspiring the individual to excel.
How to Support Someone with VAST
People with VAST thrive in environments that emphasize positive reinforcement. Here’s how to help them succeed:
- Celebrate Effort and Progress: Don’t wait for perfection to offer praise. Recognize small wins and milestones to keep momentum going.
- Create Positive Spaces: Surround them with supportive people who encourage their strengths rather than highlight their shortcomings.
- Minimize Chronic Disappointments: Help them step away from toxic relationships or projects that perpetuate negativity.
- Encourage Resilience: Remind them of their natural ability to bounce back and adapt, even when faced with setbacks.
By fostering recognition responsive euphoria, individuals with VAST can channel their unique traits into success and happiness.
The Case for VAST
Renaming ADHD as VAST reframes the condition as a dynamic trait rather than a pathology. It acknowledges both the challenges and the strengths, offering a more balanced and empowering narrative.
With the right understanding, people with VAST can embrace their traits, harness their potential, and thrive in ways that the term "ADHD" simply doesn’t convey.
TL;DR:
- ADHD is a misnomer; the term emphasizes deficits instead of strengths.
- VAST (Variable Attention Stimulus Trait) is a better name, reflecting the balance of assets and liabilities in ADHD brains.
- Emotional sensitivity is a key part of VAST, including rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) and recognition responsive euphoria (RRE).
- Support individuals with VAST by offering consistent encouragement, celebrating progress, and fostering positive environments.
- VAST highlights the resilience, creativity, and adaptability of ADHD brains.
Do you agree?
Is ADHD an outdated? Don't Like VAST either? How about these...
- Variable Attention Trait Disorder (VAT)
- Dysregulated Attention Disorder (DAD)
- Selective Attention Impulsive Disorder (SAID)
- Neuro-Overload Disorder (NOD)
- Executive Malfunction Disorder
- Emotional Regulation Disorder
- Chronic Overwhelm Disorder (COD)
- Dopamine Attention Variability Executive Dysfunction (DAVE)
- Capacity Management Syndrome
- Exceptional Artistic Ability of the Genius Variety
- Can’t Live Up to Your Bullsh*t Expectations Syndrome!
