A personal perspective on the challenges and rewards of friendship for people with different types of ADHD

Hi, I'm Angie, and I have ADHD inattentive type. That means I often struggle with paying attention, staying organized, and following through on tasks. It also means that I tend to have one or two close friends who I feel comfortable with and who understand me. I don't have many casual acquaintances or social circles, and I sometimes feel lonely or isolated. But I also cherish the bonds that I have made with my friends, and I know that they are there for me when I need them.

My friend, on the other hand, has ADHD hyperactive type. That means he is always on the go, restless, impulsive, and talkative. With a lot of energy and enthusiasm, and he can make friends easily with anyone. He has many "buddies" who he hangs out with, but he doesn't have a lot of deep or lasting connections. Boredom or restlessness with his friends often occur, and he often switches from one group to another. Keeping in touch with his friends is difficult, and he sometimes forgets or neglects them.

As you can see, we have very different ways of making and maintaining friendships, and that's partly because of our different types of ADHD. But we also have a lot in common, and that's why we are friends. We both know what it's like to have ADHD, and we can support each other and share our experiences. We also have similar interests and hobbies, and we enjoy spending time together. We respect and appreciate each other's differences, and we learn from each other. We have a strong and loyal friendship that has lasted for years.

So, how can you make friends with ADHD(I)? Well, there is no one right answer, but here are some tips that might help you:

• Be yourself. Don't try to pretend to be someone you're not, or to fit in with a group that doesn't share your values or interests. Find people who like you for who you are, and who accept your strengths and weaknesses.
• Be honest. Don't lie or hide your ADHD from your friends. Be open and transparent about your challenges and needs and ask for help when you need it. Your friends will appreciate your honesty and trust you more.
• Be respectful. Don't judge or criticize your friends for having a different type of ADHD or a different personality. Don't try to change them or make them conform to your expectations. Respect their choices and preferences and celebrate their achievements.
• Be flexible. Don't expect your friends to always be available or reliable. Understand that they might have different schedules, priorities, or commitments. Be willing to compromise and adapt to their needs and preferences.
• Be supportive. Don't ignore or abandon your friends when they are going through a hard time. Be there for them, listen to them, and offer them your help and encouragement. Your friends will appreciate your support and loyalty.
• Be fun. Don't take yourself or your friendship too seriously. Have fun with your friends, laugh with them, and enjoy the moment. Your friends will enjoy your company and your positive energy.

Making friends with ADHD(I) can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. You can find people who understand you, who share your interests, and who enrich your life. Bonds can be formed that are meaningful and lasting. You can have friends who make you happy and who make you a better person.