What does it feel like to have ADHD?
“I may look just like everyone else, but I know I’m different. I feel the most disconnected and dissimilar when I try — and fail — to communicate my unique perspective. No one understands what I’m talking about; it’s almost as if I’m speaking a foreign language. At these times, I either feel as if I am the only sane and observant person present, or I feel isolated and misunderstood. Or both, especially when I see their eyes rolling as I speak. They don’t say anything, but I know what they’re thinking.

I love people. Conversation is like an indulgent dessert — most days. But on bad days, my racing brain drowns out all sound and paralyzes my brain and my tongue. When I sit among friends engaged in conversation on those bad days, my body is there, but my mind is elsewhere. You think I hear what you’re saying, but all I hear is mumbling. I try to focus on your words, but my darting mind sabotages me. When my emotions are this strong, I have no words. It’s hard to speak; it’s even harder to listen.

The imagination is a wonderful trait when used for good. But my ADHD imagination has a habit of running wild, meandering down harmful paths filled with negative thoughts that stick like Velcro. Catastrophic images appear. Every situation is accompanied by a what-if, worst-case scenario; and that’s when the spiraling cycle begins. How could the same imaginative power that allows some people with ADHD to compose symphonies, paint masterpieces, and develop computer programs, be so crippling? I beat myself up over this some more.” (Silny)

Silny, June. “What Does ADHD Feel like on a Really Bad Day?” ADDitude, 28 Nov. 2016, www.additudemag.com/slideshows/what-does-adhd-feel-like/.

Identifying signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults can be a complex process. However, it’s important to recognize that core symptoms often arise early in life—typically before age 12—and can continue into adulthood, potentially leading to significant challenges. To get an accurate diagnosis, the following constructive steps are usually taken:

1. Physical Examination:
   This is an essential step to eliminating other possible causes of your symptoms, ensuring a focused approach to your health. You should seek out a medical provider with experience diagnosing and treating ADHD.
2. Information Gathering: This involves engaging in a thoughtful discussion about your current medical issues, your personal and family medical history, and the progression of your symptoms. This information is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of your situation.
3. ADHD Rating Scales or Psychological Tests: These tools allow for a thorough collection and evaluation of your symptoms, helping to create a clearer picture of how ADHD may impact your life. 70 West Counseling offers Adult ADHD Assessments by a certified

By following this process, you can work collaboratively with healthcare professionals to achieve a more accurate diagnosis and pave the way for effective management strategies.

If you’re navigating life with adult ADHD, know that you’re not alone, and there is support available to help you thrive. Counseling for adult ADHD often includes psychotherapy, education about the condition, and the development of practical skills to foster your success.

Through psychotherapy, you may find support in:

• • Improving your time management and organizational skills, which can make daily life feel more manageable
  • Reducing impulsive behaviors that may create challenges in various situations
  • Developing stronger problem-solving skills to tackle obstacles that arise
  • Coping with past academic, work, or social setbacks, allowing you to move forward with confidence
  • Building your self-esteem and recognizing your strengths
  • Strengthening relationships with family, co-workers, and friends, as communication can often become strained
  • Finding effective strategies for controlling your temper, contributing to more peaceful interactions.
  • Some common types of psychotherapy that may be beneficial include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

This structured approach provides specific skills for managing behavior while helping to shift negative thinking patterns toward a more positive outlook. It’s designed to help you address the unique challenges you face in work, school, or relationships and can also support other mental health concerns, such as depression or substance misuse.

Marital Counseling and Family Therapy:

This type of therapy supports you and your loved ones. It helps family members understand the impact of living with someone who has ADHD and fosters better communication and problem-solving skills within the household. Engaging in therapy can be a powerful step toward a more fulfilling life, where you can embrace your unique journey and build a brighter future. Remember, seeking help is a courageous and positive decision.

Neurofeedback:

Neurofeedback is a therapeutic technique that trains individuals to regulate their brainwave activity. It works by providing real-time feedback on brainwave patterns, allowing the individual to learn how to increase or decrease specific brainwave frequencies associated with improved focus, attention, and emotional regulation. For individuals with ADHD, neurofeedback aims to address the dysregulated brain activity that often underlies symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Through repeated sessions, the brain “learns” to function more efficiently, enhancing cognitive control, improving attention span, and reducing impulsive behaviors. Unlike medication, neurofeedback offers a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option that targets the root cause of ADHD symptoms by training the brain to optimize its functioning.