Laziness or Neurology? An Activation Problem

How individuals with ADHD internalize the 'lazy' label and the neurological foundations behind this struggle.

Wanting vs. Being Able to Do

Laziness is "choosing not to do" something when you have the power to do it. ADHD, however, is an Activation Problem. Even if an individual wants to do a task very much, or even suffers because of it, the dopaminergic signals in their brain fail to perform the "ignition" task that would initiate that action.

Understanding this difference clears away years of accumulated shame. Saying "I have a different operating system" instead of "I am inadequate" allows the individual to show themselves compassion and develop strategies suitable for their neurology (such as body doubling, reward systems, etc.).