Coaching and ADD
Author: Norma J. Heller

This month we will look at the criteria for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Six or more of the following criteria must have persisted for at least six months or more to a degree that impairs you in your everyday situations. The six can either be in the first group of questions on inattention or the second group of questions on Hyperactivity-Impulsivity. These are the questions that you will be asked during a diagnosis. Think back to your childhood and to how long you have had these symptoms.

Inattention

Do you fail to pay close attention to details or do you make careless mistakes in schoolwork, work or other activities? Do you have difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities? Do you seem not to listen when spoken to directly? Is there a problem with following through on instructions or do you fail to finish schoolwork, chores or duties in the workplace? Do you have difficulty organizing tasks and activities? Do you avoid or dislike to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort such as schoolwork or homework? Do you often lose things necessary for tasks or activities? Are you easily distracted by extraneous stimuli? Are you forgetful in daily activities?

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity

Do you fidget with hands or feet or squirm in your seat? Do you leave your seat in the classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected? Do you run about or climb excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate. (in adolescents or adults, this may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness) Do you have difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly? Are you often on the go or act as if you are driven by a motor? Do you talk excessively? Do you blurt out answers before questions have been completed? Do you have difficulty awaiting your turn? Do you interrupt or intrude on others?

Other Factors

Has some hyperactive-impulsive or inattentive symptoms been present before seven years of age? Has some impairment from the symptoms been present in two or more settings such as school, work or home? Is there clear evidence of clinically significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning?

The need for a professional evaluation

If you think that you are troubled by the above symptoms, it is important to see a health professional who can diagnose and help you gain an understanding of your ADD. There are many noted physicians and psychologists who can educate you about the medications that are available.

Your coach

Your coach acts in conjunction with your doctor and supports you in finding out the best treatment available. Your coach assists you in reaching your goals and helps you to develop systems to have your life running smoothly. Coaching is not therapy. Therapy is about fixing the plane. Coaching is getting you to fly the plane. Your coach can help you with more effective communication and systems to help you remember. You will learn to complete tasks easily and effectively. We work as a team to help you to clarify your goals and to learn positive ways to enhance your life and work experiences. Your coach offers support and encourages you to be more focused in order to maximize your strengths, overcome obstacles and actualize your potential.

Top 10 Reasons to Hire a Coach

?Communicate more effectively by articulating what you really want and need
?Experience more happiness and having the time to enjoy it
?Get motivated and complete tasks easily by learning to follow through
?Accomplish projects more quickly
?Take really good care of yourself
?Make more money
?Eliminate the negative self-talk and learn to be positive
?Live in the present moment and enjoy each day
?Recognize your own personal power and build your self esteem
?Learn specific systems to have your life running smoothly

If you would like any questions answered about ADD, please contact Norma Heller at lifecoach8@aol.com or 203-846-2842.

Norma J. Heller is an Advanced Certified Hypnotherapist and Lifestyles Coach with a specialty in Attention Deficit Disorder. She is an instructor in the Continuing Education Department at Norwalk Community Technical College. She has a private practice in Norwalk, Connecticut. For further information, contact the Heller Center for Health and Hypnosis in Norwalk. CT.






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