Common challenges for gifted adults

Who is a gifted adult? It is a commonly misunderstood term with a limited traditional definition, often associated only with IQ. The reality is that there are multiple types of extraordinary abilities (including creativity!) not captured in that conventional conception of giftedness. 

Being gifted also comes with its own unique challenges due to the overall experience of feeling misunderstood (and being misunderstood) by others. Here are some common concerns that I see in gifted clients:

• Low self-esteem. Consistent feelings of not fitting in with others in addition to perfectionistic tendencies + strong inner critic may contribute to a negative self narrative.
• Relational frustration. Gifted adults often find others’ interests or conversation to be superficial or dull, which makes it difficult to participate socially in a genuine manner.  This also makes partnering a challenge for gifted adults.  
• Creative issues. Gifted adults may experience a constant sense of urgency about wanting to pursue many ideas at once, which can make it difficult to decide where to put energy and even lead to underachievement. 
• Lack of career satisfaction. Gifted adults may feel bored and ready for the next challenge once they reach a certain point in their career. They also may find it difficult to find career satisfaction when they can see so many issues, see how they could be addressed, and yet feel unable to make an impact.
• Existential concern. Gifted adults’ innate ability to think abstractly may lead them to consider and deeply question issues such as death, freedom, and  the human condition. These thoughts can lead to feelings of hopelessness and meaninglessness.  
• Substance use or addictive behaviors. In hopes to mitigate the intensity of their emotions and heightened sensitivity, gifted people may find ways to attempt to escape or numb. 
• Misdiagnosis. Since many therapists are not aware of the different experience of gifted individuals, they may misinterpret thoughts, feelings, and behaviors typical of gifted adults and inappropriately diagnose.

Gifted Support
Think you may be gifted, but therapy hasn't been helpful in the past? Many gifted people are repeatedly misdiagnosed, so it is crucial that you work with a therapist who has worked with and have a nuanced understanding of your unique challenges, without resorting to labels and categories.

I have had the honor of supporting the unique needs of many gifted clients at Method and would love to work with you.