The topic of ADHD is in common parlance these days, with many people of all ages feeling that they are affected by symptoms of ADHD. This is because ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is increasingly becoming recognized as affecting many children and adults. It is characterized by patterns of inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity that can interfere with a person’s daily life and functioning.
These symptoms of ADHD typically include struggles with concentration, managing time effectively, or staying organized. People might frequently misplace things, become easily distracted, or feel restless in themselves. For some people with hyperactivity the symptoms can be visible to others such as someone in a meeting shaking their leg and playing with something on the table, restlessness and difficulty with concentrating on what other people are saying. Research has found that ADHD can affect everyone differently, depending on age, environment, and support systems. While ADHD has been seen as common in children, many adults are becoming aware that they may have ADHD and that this has in fact affected their childhood and work/home life.
How I can help
From many years of helping people with ADHD I have found the best therapeutic method is offering a structured approach which helps clients manage their ADHD symptoms. Acceptance therapy and developing ‘high frustration tolerance’ to stressful situations is also a common aim. Therefore, in the sessions we work on:
- Enhancing executive functioning skills like planning, prioritizing, and organization
- Managing emotional regulation and impulsive behaviors
- Identifying and shifting unhelpful thinking patterns
- Building confidence and self-awareness
To do this I use evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), coaching strategies, and psychodynamic therapy looking at the impact that ADHD has had on your life, both the negative and positive aspects. I can also offer EMDR therapy to work through deep seated trauma and difficult emotions. Sessions can focus on real workplace situations and experiences to build up habits, coping mechanisms and structure. This can also be done alongside ADHD medication.
Example: ADHD at work
ADHD can affect people in all parts of their life. However, one of common areas where clients find challenges is at work. This is because there can be many triggers within the working environment that can lead to difficulties with managing behaviour and emotions. ADHD can typically involve perfectionist tendencies and ‘rejection sensitivity’ which is not a good combination. The person goes into a situation looking for threats of rejection and feel that people are judging them as ‘good enough’ or not. This can trigger feelings of inadequacy or panic. When asked to do tasks at work procrastination can be the result because of this kind of negative thinking.
Thought: “If I can’t do this perfectly, there’s no point starting.”
CBT Reframe: “Starting imperfectly moves me closer to completion, it is just a draft!” (the idea that ‘Rome was not built in a day’).
Action: To build up tolerance towards working for 10 minutes and then reassessing the situation.
Therefore, it is possible to develop new skills and techniques to cope well within a work environment through reducing impulsivity and increasing emotional regulation. Through understanding your thoughts, beliefs and behaviours, and how these can impact you on a day-to-day basis, you can work towards a more positive way of thinking and feeling, resulting in behavioural and emotional change.
Suggested reading
Kustow, J. (2024) How to Thrive with Adult ADHD: 7 Pillars for Focus, Productivity and Balance. Vermilion/Sheldon Press Ltd.