Something extraordinary happened this week: I became a grandmother again.

My third grandchild was born a week early, healthy and beautiful, with a full head of dark hair and endless potential in her tiny fingers and toes. After an eight-hour flight, I held her for the first time and felt more than joy—I felt awe. Awe, at her presence in the world and the family she’s been born into—a family where ADHD isn’t just present—it’s part of our shared wiring.

Her brother, father, uncles, aunts, and grandparents (including me) have been diagnosed with ADHD. Some might see this as something to worry about. I view it differently. I consider it a powerful legacy. As powerful as her Native Alaskan culture, a family with strong ties and faith, and a history of purpose-driven women.

I’ve spent over 20 years immersed in the study and coaching of those living with ADHD. One thing that has always been clear is that ADHD is highly heritable—up to 90%, according to the research. This means if a close blood relative has ADHD, it is highly likely that someone else in the family will have ADHD.

So yes, ADHD runs in families, and my granddaughter may one day be diagnosed. But rather than worry about it, I anticipate it with hope. Today, we know how to support those struggling with ADHD. We understand it doesn’t have to define life as a constant battle with repeated failure or constant frustration—it can be a life characterized by creativity, resilience, deep empathy, and a brilliance that breaks barriers and builds something bold. That’s her real inheritance, and I want to celebrate it.

Here’s what I’ve learned about ADHD across generations and what I hope other families experience on their journey:

ADHD in Families: What We Know

• ADHD often runs through generations—if a parent has it, there’s a strong likelihood their child might, too.
• Families with multiple members who have ADHD can often recognize, understand, and support each other, but they can also feel overwhelmed if they don’t have the right tools.
• The earlier we recognize the signs, the sooner we can build awareness, supportive environments, strategies, and relationships that help ADHD brains flourish.

What You Can Do as a Family:

• Get curious, not judgmental. If you notice patterns of restlessness, hyperactivity, difficulty paying attention, forgetfulness, time awareness challenges, or emotional intensity in your kids (or yourself), get curious, ask questions, and find out why rather than assume, blame, or judge.
• Learn everything you can about ADHD. Raising our awareness of ADHD is essential for helping that child in your life understand how their brain works and how to channel their unique brain wiring into a life they define as success.
• Talk openly about neurodiversity. Normalize ADHD as part of the family conversation. Doing so shines a light where shame can’t hide because it increases self-understanding, self-compassion, and self-confidence.
• Focus on strengths. Yes, executive function challenges are real, but so are creativity, humor, hyperfocus, and a passionate drive to do meaningful work—all equally common characteristics of people with ADHD.
• Advocate early. If you see signs in your child or grandchild, don’t wait. Evaluation, early intervention, and diagnosis can be life-changing, allowing you and your child to discover what works best for them so they can become their own advocates.
• Share your ADHD experiences. When you’re open about your own ADHD—your wins, your struggles, your strategies, your success, and your growth—you give your child permission to do the same.

My granddaughter has been born into a world where we no longer have to whisper in corners, feel ashamed of ADHD, or pretend it’s a defect of something. We can name it for what it is: a medical neurobiological difference.

The experiences and behaviors of people with ADHD aren’t something to be fixed, but rather something to build on. By embracing the unique strategies and problem-solving of people with ADHD, we can create supportive approaches that finally work and nurture someone’s strengths so they can leverage them to manage their ADHD better.

Finally, we can change the conversations we have about ADHD and normalize it, just as people with diabetes or vision challenges are not blamed for their differences. We can rewrite the narratives of what it means to have ADHD from one of limitation to one of limitlessness.

To every parent, grandparent, or caregiver reading this: take heart. Celebrate this amazing person(s) in your life. You’re not alone, and neither is your child. ADHD may be in your DNA—but so is brilliance, connection, and the power to create something beautiful.

Welcome to the world, “blessed” one. You’re already so loved. And if you do happen to inherit this part of our family legacy, I promise you this: you’re going to shine bright, break barriers, and live boldly…just like those before you.

If you’re a parent, caregiver, or professional supporting ADHD in your family or community, consider exploring our ADHD Life Coach Training Programs. Helping others thrive with ADHD may be your next great calling. Find out what your ideal training program might be using our quick assessment. 💛