Sometimes it’s hard to make it out of the darkness, but with some help, we can reach for the light.
Individuals with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have a neurodevelopmental condition, which means very simply – their brains are wired differently. They are born this way. As a result of this condition, they might struggle with day-to-day inattentiveness, impulsiveness and/or hyperactivity, which can make it difficult to manage relationships, school, work, life transitions and adulting. They are often incorrectly perceived as lazy, unreliable, unpredictable, difficult – the list of negative labels go on. These labels are hurtful (also very unhelpful!) and can become a lifelong narrative for the ADHD individual.
Individuals with ADHD can also struggle with deficient emotional self-regulation (DESR) and rejections syndrome disorder (RSD) – their emotions, both negative and positive, and how they are experienced are intensely amplified.
They may have difficulty managing their emotions; they experience hurt, rejection, sadness, grief more deeply than other people. They often feel like they are never good enough and feel unaccepted for who they are. Many mask their struggles which can be emotionally draining. However, this also gives them the ability to develop deep connections with others, and they possess a great depth of compassion and empathy.
Some people with ADHD engage in risky behaviours, they may struggle with addictions (behavioural and/or substance), and some people live under the stress of a mismanaged existence – the inability to manage finances, appointments, and deadlines. The consequences of such behaviours frequently result in a cycle of depression, anxiety, and burnout. Their quality of life has been significantly affected, and they are left wondering, “How did I get here?!?”
What can counselling/psychotherapy do for someone with ADHD?
Life can sometimes be overwhelming and it is hard enough just to stay on top of things. Unexpected events do happen and it can derail that balancing act – and ADHD individuals fall off the tracks. Sometimes it’s easy to get back up but they can get stuck trying because of ADHD, they may have forgotten a step (or a few).
Counselling helps the ADHD individual figure out what happened and how to cope in a positive way that works for them. The therapeutic process is an empowering one that helps the individual untangle the knots in their head and move forward positively in life.
It helps to have that space to talk, to be seen, to be heard and be emotionally supported.
Reach out, you don’t have to struggle alone.