I'll Get To That Tomorrow...

ADHD

Our fast-paced lives and love for technology tends to make us all a little distracted, and as many say, “I am so ADD”. But what is it, really, and what causes it? Some mistakenly believe it is due to poor parenting skills, the social environment, or a lack of self-discipline. It is due to none of these, but rather stems from a neurological problem: a deficiency of two neurotransmitters in the brain.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is an impairment of the brain’s executive functions. It presents differently but most experience one or all of the following symptoms:

Inattention: difficulty staying on task, sustaining focus and keeping organized.
Hyperactivity: moving about constantly or fidgeting, tapping or talking too much. Difficulty falling asleep or general restlessness
Impulsivity: acting or speaking without thinking. Difficulty with self-control. A desire for immediate rewards. Interrupting others. Making decisions without thinking about long-term consequences.

Left untreated, these conditions can result in underachievement, failed relationships, depression and low self-esteem. Often adults who are diagnosed later in life feel a tremendous amount of relief: they finally have an explanation for many of their life-long struggles.

If you are feeling overwhelmed and struggling in any of the areas mentioned above, or are witnessing these challenges in your child’s life, we are here to help you unravel the complex disorder of ADHD.

I'll Get To That Tomorrow...

3/12/2016

by Deb Toering, LPC, NCC, BCPCC

Deb Toering is a Board Certified Professional Christian Counselor (BCPCC) in private practice at Trinity Family Counseling Center. In addition to working with a wide range of client populations and presenting issues, Deb is also an engaging public speaker. She has spoken in front of various groups across a range of topics including marriage, bullying, ADHD/ADD, and teen leadership.

Putting off the difficult things is something we all do. For some, it is a regular cycle of defeat and shame, negatively affecting relationships, work, finances, physical and mental health. “Lazy” or “incompetent” are labels often attached to procrastinators. So why do some continue in such destructive behavior?

For many with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), procrastination is the go-to M.O. The brain is stimulated when it is interested, under the pressure of a deadline or facing the threat of a major consequence. The mundane things of life like paperwork or cleaning are the kinds of tasks the ADHD brain tends to want to “put off” to do something more stimulating. ADHD and procrastination tend to go hand in hand. It is important to understand the “why” but never use it as an excuse. Medication helps with motivation but isn’t a miraculous cure. Lifelong habits need an aggressive and intentional approach.

The key is: DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT.

SET A TIMER – Just 10 minutes allows you to begin tackling that boring pile of paperwork.

MOMENTUM – Doing the next thing propels you forward. Making that first call gives you the momentum to go on to the next.

ACCOUNTABILITY – Text an accountability partner when you are going to start a difficult project and then text when you are finished.

HAVE FUN – Challenge yourself by beating your last record for minutes taken to empty the dishwasher.

START SOMEWHERE! An ADHD counselor or coach may be just what you need to succeed.