11 Struggles for People with ADHD

If you have ADHD, you may experience various challenges that can make everyday life difficult. These challenges can range from difficulty focusing to managing your emotions. It's important to remember that you are not alone and that there are ways to manage these challenges. In this article, we will discuss 10 common ADHD struggles, their definition, examples, and tips to help you cope.

1. Depersonalization : Depersonalization is a feeling of being detached from your own thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations.

   Example: You may feel like you're watching yourself from the outside or that your body is not your own.

   Tip: Try grounding techniques such as focusing on your breath, listening to music, or engaging your senses (touch, smell, taste).

2. Intrusive thoughts : Intrusive thoughts are unwanted or disturbing thoughts that pop into your mind unexpectedly and can cause anxiety or distress.

   Example: You may have thoughts of harming yourself or others, or feel like you're constantly failing.

   Tip: Try practicing mindfulness, talking to a trusted friend or therapist, or using positive affirmations to counteract negative thoughts.

3. RSD (Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria): RSD is an extreme emotional sensitivity to perceived rejection, criticism, or failure.

   Example: You may feel intense anxiety or shame when receiving constructive feedback or when you feel like you've let someone down.

   Tip: Try practicing self-compassion, reminding yourself that mistakes are a natural part of learning, and seeking support from a therapist.

4. Maladaptive daydreaming: Maladaptive daydreaming is a compulsive behavior where a person creates vivid and elaborate fantasies in their mind to escape reality.

   Example: You may find yourself lost in daydreams for hours, neglecting responsibilities and relationships.

   Tip: Try setting boundaries for daydreaming time, engaging in physical activities, and practicing mindfulness.

5. Hyperfocus : Hyperfocus is a state of intense concentration where a person becomes completely absorbed in a task or activity, often to the point of ignoring other important tasks or time.

   Example: You may spend hours on a project, neglecting self-care, eating, or sleeping.

   Tip: Try setting a timer to break up work periods, scheduling breaks, and setting reminders for self-care activities.

6. Time blindness : Time blindness is a difficulty in accurately perceiving the passage of time and estimating how long a task will take.

   Example: You may underestimate the time it takes to complete a task or lose track of time completely.

   Tip: Try using a timer or scheduling app, breaking tasks into smaller chunks, and practicing time-management techniques.

7. Emotional dysregulation: Emotional dysregulation is difficulty in managing and expressing emotions appropriately.

   Example: You may have intense emotional reactions to minor situations, have mood swings, or experience difficulty calming down when upset.

   Tip: Try identifying triggers for emotional reactions, practicing mindfulness and self-care, and seeking therapy for coping strategies.

8. Object permanence : Object permanence is the understanding that objects still exist even when they are out of sight.

   Example: You may forget where you placed your keys, or struggle with organizing belongings.

   Tip: Try using reminders, setting up a designated place for important items, and creating a routine for keeping track of belongings.

9. Fidgeting : Fidgeting is a restlessness or compulsive need to move, often to help with focus or release excess energy.

   Example: You may tap your foot, play with objects, or bounce your leg while sitting.

   Tip: Try using fidget toys or tools, taking frequent breaks to move around, and incorporating physical activity into your daily routine.

10. Executive dysfunctioning: Executive dysfunction is a difficulty in planning, organizing, and executing tasks.

    Example: You may struggle with starting or completing tasks, managing your time, or staying focused.

    Tip: Try breaking tasks into smaller steps, using lists or visual aids, and seeking support from a therapist.

11. Auditory Processing Disorder: (APD) is a neurological condition that affects the way the brain processes sound. In adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), APD may present as difficulty in focusing on relevant sounds and ignoring irrelevant sounds, leading to distractibility and poor attention.

    Example: An adult with ADHD and APD may struggle to follow instructions given verbally, especially if there are competing sounds in the environment. They may also find it difficult to engage in conversations or attend meetings, as they may miss important details or fail to follow the discussion thread.

    Tip: If an adult with ADHD is experiencing symptoms of APD, treatment may include strategies to reduce distractions, such as using noise-cancelling headphones or working in a quiet environment, as well as using visual aids or written notes to supplement verbal instructions or conversations.

Therapy can be incredibly beneficial for individuals with ADHD who are struggling with these challenges. A therapist can help you develop coping strategies and tools to manage symptoms, improve self-esteem, and increase self-awareness. Additionally, therapy can provide a safe space to explore emotions and develop healthy communication and relationship skills.

If you're struggling with ADHD-related challenges, reach out for support today. You don't have to go through this alone. Book a free therapy consultation with me today and let's work together to help you thrive.