How Art Became My ADHD Superpower

Let me tell you something about myself: I’ve always been that “energetic and crazy” person in the room. You know, the one people describe as having “a lot of personality.” I’m Javier, and for most of my life, I just thought being hyperactive and impulsive was who I was. Turns out, there was a name for it: ADHD.

When I got my diagnosis, it was both a relief and a wake-up call. I started taking medication, and don’t get me wrong, it’s been a game-changer. It helps me focus, keeps my mind from bouncing around like a pinball machine, and gives me clarity. But what nobody really tells you is that coming off the meds can hit you hard. And I mean hard. It’s like going from 100 miles an hour to zero. That crash can bring on waves of sadness and self-doubt that, for a while, felt impossible to shake.

Due to the Pandemic, my meds went on back order. Suddenly, I didn’t have that tools I relied on to keep myself together. I needed something—anything—to help me from going completely nuts. That’s when my wife swooped in with a gift that literally changed my life: a five-week art workshop.

Now, let me be clear: I had never painted before. I wasn’t even sure I’d like it. But I was

desperate for something to do with my restless hands and chaotic brain, so I gave it a shot. From the very first class, I was hooked.

There’s something about letting the brush lead the way that feels like untangling my brain. All these wild thoughts, emotions, and even the chaos that comes with ADHD suddenly had somewhere to go. My hyperactivity? It didn’t vanish—it transformed into creativity.

For me, the colors I choose say everything I can’t always put into words. A bright yellow might mean I’m feeling optimistic, while bold reds scream passion (or maybe frustration). My designs aren’t just pretty pictures—they’re snapshots of what’s going on inside my head. And trust me, that’s a lot.

Art has also been a lifesaver for my depression. When those post-medication crashes sneak up, I reach for my paints instead of sinking into the couch. The act of creating something from nothing is like therapy, except the “therapist” is a big, messy palette of colors.

What started as a desperate coping mechanism turned into a passion I didn’t even know I had. Abstract art became my playground, my escape, and my way to process life. Sometimes my work is bold and vibrant; other times, it’s darker and moody. But no matter what, it’s me on that canvas.

So, yeah—ADHD might make my life a little more “interesting” (read: chaotic), but it’s also given me this amazing connection to art. I’ve learned to embrace the crazy energy and channel it into something beautiful. It’s messy, unpredictable, and always evolving—kind of like me.

If you’re someone who’s dealing with ADHD or just looking for a way to sort through life’s highs and lows, I can’t recommend art enough. Trust me, there’s magic in those colors. And who knows? You might even discover a part of yourself you didn’t know existed.