ADHD

Understanding ADHD and How Therapy Can Help​

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ADHD is a natural variation in the way our brains and nervous system are wired that affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels. While it is often framed as a disorder, ADHD represents a unique way of experiencing and interacting with the world. People with ADHD may face challenges in areas like focus, organization, or emotional regulation, but they also bring creativity, energy, and innovation to many aspects of life.

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The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) outlines specific symptom clusters for diagnosing ADHD. While I share the critique that the DSM is often pathologizing, I’m including some information because it is widely used in clinical settings. ADHD symptoms fall into two main categories: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, with many individuals experiencing a mix of both. These symptoms must significantly impact daily functioning and have been present since childhood.

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• Inattention: Difficulty sustaining focus, frequent forgetfulness, disorganization, and becoming easily distracted.

• Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting others, or struggling with patience and emotional control.

• Hyperactivity: Restlessness, excessive energy, difficulty staying seated, or feeling constantly “on the go.”

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ADHD doesn’t look the same for everyone. Traits may vary by gender, age, or context. For example, boys are often identified due to overt hyperactivity, while girls may be overlooked because their traits manifest as daydreaming or quiet inattention. Additionally, the DSM framework doesn’t fully capture the executive functioning challenges many with ADHD face. Emotional dysregulation, sensory sensitivities, and time blindness are commonly reported but not currently part of diagnostic criteria.

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Common Invisible ADHD traits:

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• Emotional dysregulation (e.g., difficulty managing intense emotions)

• Rejection-sensitive dysphoria (heightened sensitivity to criticism)

• Sensory sensitivities and sensory processing differences

• Time blindness and difficulty with task initiation

• Fatigue, restlessness, or sleep disturbances

• Low self-esteem, guilt, and shame

• Racing thoughts, intrusive thoughts, or overwhelm

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Here are ways I can help with ADHD at Open Heart and Mind:

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• Promote Positive Self-Image: I will provide education about ADHD to help you better understand your unique neurodiversity and how to work with it instead of against it. Additionally, I'll challenge negative self-talk by focusing on your strengths and unique perspectives.

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• Enhance Executive Functioning Skills: I will develop personalized strategies for organization, time management, and task prioritization that align with your thinking style.

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• Increase Self-Awareness: I will focus on increasing your self-awareness, encouraging self-reflection to identify your strengths and challenges related to ADHD. I'll help you gain a deeper understanding of how ADHD affects your daily experiences and relationships.

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• Improve Coping Strategies: To improve coping strategies, I'll teach techniques for managing impulsivity and regulating emotions. I will also explore sensory regulation strategies to help you manage overstimulation and enhance your comfort.

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• Strengthen Social Skills: I will provide a safe space for practicing communication and social interactions in various settings. Together we will develop personalized strategies to help you navigate social situations and build meaningful connections.

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• Enhance Focus and Attention: To enhance focus and attention, I'lll implement tailored techniques to minimize distractions in your work and learning environments. We will experiment with different settings and schedules to find what best improves your concentration and engagement.

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• Facilitate Collaboration and Support: Facilitating collaboration and support will be crucial, as I help establish regular check-ins with educators, family, and peers to build a supportive network. We will create a community of understanding individuals who offer encouragement and share experiences.

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• Create a Balanced Routine: Together we will design a daily schedule that includes breaks, physical activity, and relaxation to prevent burnout. I will promote healthy habits such as regular exercise, nutritious eating, and adequate sleep.

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• Communicate Needs and Advocate for Accommodations: I will empower you to communicate your needs effectively, both in requesting accommodations in academic and workplace settings and in discussing your needs with loved ones. 

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These goals can be tailored to fit individual needs and preferences, ensuring a supportive and affirming approach to personal growth and well-being.