5 People on What ADHD *Actually* Feels Like

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Most people are familiar with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental diagnosis characterized by nine inattentive symptoms and nine hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. However, education and media portrayals of ADHD tend to focus only on one presentation, overlooking the diversity and variance in ADHDers’ life experiences. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision, (DSM-5-TR), an individual … Read more

As a Therapist With ADHD, Here’s What’s On My Dopamine Menu

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Everyone has coping skills and self-care habits that help them get through the day. Activities that we enjoy and boost our mood help the brain release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps us feel pleasure and motivates us. Folks with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) tend to have lower levels of dopamine in our brains,1 so we have to work harder to tap into … Read more

How Is ADHD Treated in Adults?

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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, better known as ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental condition with an estimated global prevalence of about 4%.1 That means about 4% of the world’s population has ADHD, and that number is steadily growing as we learn more about the nuances of the disorder and its complexities. Most of us know someone (or are someone) who … Read more

Marijuana and ADHD: What the Research Says

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Because marijuana is linked to relaxation, there has been a growing interest in how it might benefit certain ADHD traits like restlessness and impulsivity. There is a growing number of individuals who sometimes use marijuana as a self-treatment option for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).1 They state that marijuana usage is therapeutic and particularly helpful in limiting distractions and helping with focus, … Read more

Understanding Binge Eating and ADHD

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Research shows that people struggling with an eating disorder, especially bulimia nervosa or binge eating, are more likely to have comorbid ADHD.1 While those studies haven’t confirmed that ADHD causes those eating disorders, the data suggests that it can put someone at a higher risk of developing disordered eating habits. Here are some factors that explain the link between ADHD and binge … Read more

Justice Sensitivity Is Plaguing Autistic & ADHD Individuals—Here’s What to Know

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Justice sensitivity refers to an individual’s sense of fairness, equity, and inclusion, as well as their need to address and correct injustices. Most people would describe themselves as having some level of justice sensitivity, though the intensity to which they focus on issues of justice and equity will vary, like all traits. Some people experience … Read more

Why Comparing Feelings Isn’t Helpful

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When you are coping with something difficult in your life, it isn’t uncommon for someone else to say “it could be worse.” You might even find yourself thinking, “Well, at least I don’t have it as bad as that person does.” Comparing your own pain and other emotions to others is common, but that doesn’t … Read more

How Depression Can Impact Family Members

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Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders in America, affecting 21 million adults and five million teens annually.1 But people with this condition aren’t the only ones impacted. Family members are affected as well. When we have a family member who is dealing with depression, it’s helpful to understand how this affects the … Read more

Coping With an Invisible Illness

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An invisible illness is a health condition that isn’t outwardly visible but can limit or challenge a person in some way.1 They include chronic medical conditions with debilitating pain and fatigue, such as myalgic encephalomyelitis (chronic fatigue syndrome), lupus, fibromyalgia, and Crohn’s disease. Mental health disorders often fall into this category as well. People with invisible illnesses can look healthy … Read more