Squirrel is my totem animal
The film "Up" has contributed to a broader understanding of the term "SQUIRREL," particularly when expressed quickly and emphatically. The depiction of the dogs in the movie, who abruptly shift their focus to a randomly appearing squirrel, serves as a relatable metaphor for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I am well past my middle age (technically), but have only more recently come to understand my own experience of attention deficit disorder. I am starting to learn that ADHD is less a problem of attention deficit, and more a problem of attention management. I am also getting resentful about this type of brain (my brain) being classified as “disordered.”
*****Terminology Note: ADHD is the acronym for Attention Deficit/Hyper Activity Disorder. The professional manual that is used to diagnosis mental disorders in the United States (the DSM-5R) says that there are a variety of types of ADHD, meaning some people show more hyperactivity, some are more inattentive, and some people have a “combined type.” Whatever type of ADHD a person has, the overall term used by providers in the field is simply ADHD. *****
I was diagnosed as having ADHD by a medical provider a couple of years ago. I expressed confusion as to why ADHD was not diagnosed when I was younger, and even more confusing, why wasn’t this issue a detriment in my educational experiences? My provider told me about the common pattern of girls having more signs of attention deficit, rather than hyperactivity. She also suggested that having intelligence and good literacy skills overall helped me (and others like me) to still get enough of the material for my classes to do well academically. As we discussed the factors for my own experience, we also agreed that I was socialized to be a rule follower and please my teachers, which also helped me as a student.
As an individual who appreciates nature and pagan beliefs, I resonate with the symbolism of the squirrel, which represents my nature and the classic portrayal of random distractions. In reading more about the symbolism of the Squirrel totem, I was especially pleased to learn that squirrels are constant movers and creators. Squirrels are also never satisfied, and they will scour the ground looking for the best and prettiest object of their desire. In fact, squirrels will drop other items they have gathered for their nest, if they come upon a bigger and better stick along the way. This is a behavior I can relate to!
Being scattered, random, and easily distracted is not always fun, or funny. This ADHD way of perceiving can allow for creative and innovative thinking, but it can also bring frustration and shame when the tedious details aren’t successfully completed. ADHD brains are often brilliant, but also at times too incoherent for others to understand.
Through this blog, I aim to share my journey and insights as a uniquely "squirrelly" woman. My hope is that readers will find understanding, inspiration, tips, and perhaps some humor in my reflections.
Xoxoxoxo
woo