Silver linings of ADHD: a thematic analysis of adults' positive experiences with living with ADHD.

Objectives: To identify and explore positive aspects of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as reported by adults with the diagnosis.

Design: The current study used a qualitative survey design including the written responses to an open-ended question on positive aspects of ADHD. The participants' responses were analysed using thematic analysis.

Setting: The participants took part in trial of a self-guided internet-delivered intervention in Norway. As part of the intervention, the participants were asked to describe positive aspects of having ADHD.

Participants: The study included 50 help-seeking adults with an ADHD diagnosis.

Results: The participants described a variety of positive aspects related to having ADHD. The participants' experiences were conceptualised and thematically organised into four main themes: (1) the dual impact of ADHD characteristics; (2) the unconventional mind; (3) the pursuit of new experiences and (4) resilience and growth.

Conclusions: Having ADHD was experienced as both challenging and beneficial, depending on the context and one's sociocultural environment. The findings provide arguments for putting a stronger emphasis on positive aspects of ADHD, alongside the challenges, in treatment settings.

Trial Registration Number: NCT04511169.