Do you see reels, tiktoks, or other social media that really makes you wonder if you have ADHD? Or what does neurodivergence even mean? Maybe it seems like it, but you also wonder if you really have a diagnosis or isn’t this just how everyone’s brain works?

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a diagnosis a neurodevelopmental disorder that shows symptoms in childhood and can persist with interfering symptoms into adulthood. Although “deficit” is in the name, often we talk about how folks with ADHD struggle to regulate their attention, often struggling with not enough stimulation or too much stimulation to achieve a focus.

With ADHD, folks can have the diagnosis with either a predominantly inattentive presentation, predominantly hyperactive presentation, or combined type with both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms present. As research continues we’re learning more and more about how these different presentations show up in folks which is why we’ll see terms like “Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria” come up in regards to ADHD, but our diagnosing manual (DSM 5 TR) will have no mention of it.

Regardless of meeting criteria for a diagnosis or not, inattentive symptoms and hyperactive symptoms can be really disruptive in day to day life. My clients will often struggle with not being able to remember if you locked your home, unplugged your hair straightener, or to fill your gas tank when you’re running low. Constantly returning to the grocery store “for one thing” and somehow magically still not being able to obtain it during your trip regardless of how important it may be. My clients feel overwhelmed with their thoughts and it can feel impossible to “turn my brain off” and get a moment of peace in our own heads.

ADHD symptoms can really cause distress in our personal lives as well as workplaces, as the accommodations that benefit folks with ADHD often aren’t commonplace and we’re expected to work at neurotypical paces and environments. Learning how to support your ADHD needs in therapy can be a game changer for your sense of achievement and satisfaction with your job.

Your mental health doesn’t need to be a mystery, let me help you figure out if ADHD treatment is part of what works for you and find solutions that help resolve the struggle of ADHD symptoms.

Reach out today and let’s find some relief!