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Famous People With Attention Deficit Disorder

Attention Deficit Disorder, which was officially recognized as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (or ADHD) by the American Psychiatric Association, should not be considered a deficiency in any way. In fact, there is research to suggest those with ADHD's features, notably hyperactivity, risk-taking and a lack of focus, are actually quite the opposite of deficient--disproportionately gifted--and there is also precedent to substantiate this.

  1. Condition

    • ADHD is characterized by daydreaming, hyperactivity and disorganized thoughts. If not channeled properly, it can have a negative effect in many settings--on the job and at home. But, if managed properly and with more organized support systems, the very characteristics that may seem so detrimental upfront can actually contribute to one's success--from disorganization flows creativity, from impulsiveness flows the ability to take a risk on a new idea or venture.

    Historical Figures

    • There is speculation that many well-known historical figures had ADHD but were not officially diagnosed as such during their lifetimes. It's hard to say whether Albert Einstein, Mozart, Winston Churchill or Walt Disney actually had ADHD but, according to One ADD Place, a hub for ADHD information, they all displayed traits linked to this condition.

    The Artists

    • In interviews, performer Justin Timberlake has spoken about his ADHD and OCD--a common mix of conditions that he shares with comedian Howie Mandel. TV home decorator Ty Pennington also helps kids with ADHD, as he was diagnosed with the condition as a teen.

    The Entrepreneurs

    • The founder and CEO of Jet Blue Airlines, David Neeleman, has been particularly open about living with ADHD. He links his ability to think out-of-the-box with his launching the concept of a discount airline. Kinko's founder Paul Orfalea may have flunked second grade and earned C's and D's in college, but now runs a $2.4 billion business, attributing his success in part to the curiosity ADHD breeds.

    The Athletes

    • Michael Phelps and his mother have openly discussed the Olympic super-swimmer's ADHD with audiences throughout the country. Football Hall of Fame quarterback and sports announcer Terry Bradshaw addressed his ADHD in a book, while professional baseball player Scott Eyre was officially diagnosed with ADHD at age 30.

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