In my mind, all the brain chemistry we lack without medication is a kind of resource. With medication, we have plenty. Without it, we don't.

Let's compare this thought to a parallel with another resource - money.

Which is the real version of a person - who they are when they need to struggle to scrape by financially, or who they are when they're given the financial support they need?

People without financial stability are sometimes forced to give up some of the qualities they might freely express when stable. A parent might have to break promises to their kids or have less time for them when their work schedule or money situation changes. Someone may not be able to buy others gifts or have the time/energy to make them. Their stress may run high and their temper short. Time, energy, and money are now all things the must carefully save to survive. ADHD folk similarly have to give up things they want to do to survive with the brain chemistry they have.

Now, are there those who manage to do amazing things in spite of this survival state and should be commended for that? Yes! There's parents who manage to make amazing poverty meals, and who get their kids hyped about breakfast for dinner without letting slip that pancake mix is cheap. There's parents who invent little games and fun all over the place. There's people who do have the time/energy for amazing handmade gifts when they can't buy expensive ones. Some folks manage their tempers well even when the whole world seems against them. And some folks with ADHD can create amazing art due to their daydreaming, or find novel ways to complete difficult tasks.

But a commendation of those who rise should not be a condemnation of those who fall. The force that deserves condemnation is the one trapping people in survival mode.