Signs and symptoms of ADHD
… and what to do about it
Do I Have ADHD?
Don't you hate it when you’re trying to be productive and you just can't seem to muster up the drive to do it? Especially when you know it’s really really important but your brain says “nah, I’m good.”
So you just innocently scroll through TikTok or Instagram. Next thing you know it’s 11PM and you’re left wondering “what did I even do today?” We get it!
This resource is going to show you signs and symptoms of ADHD AND what to do about it, and how we can help!
What Are The Signs and Symptoms of ADHD?
The three main signs of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity which can show up in ways like:
Real time forgetfulness
Hyper focus but hyper lows
Struggles with retaining information
World-class daydreaming
Procrastination
Affirmation and understanding, first.
Accountability and responsibility, second.
Practical Tips
IIS THERE PRACTICAL HELP FOR ADHD?
Practical Tips For Those with ADHD:
#1. STRATEGICALLY USE YOUR ENERGY:
Do the most important tasks at the most energetic time of day. Curb that inclination to procrastinate by leaning into your natural bursts of energy and focus.
#2. PUT IT ON A CALENDAR:
Don’t leave a moment until you have a specific date and time down on your calendar. It can feel overwhelming, but being consistent with putting everything on a calendar can absolutely help.
#3. PRACTICE COMMUNICATING YOUR NEEDS
Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself! Use your voice and take up your space. Give yourself permission to think through the good, bad and ugly parts of your emotions, needs, wants, and hopes then share those things unashamedly. Words create worlds. you want to launch a business.
How To Support Someone With ADHD
(A note to parents, spouses, managers, siblings, friends or colleagues of those with ADHD)
EXPECTATIONS
The most significant element that leads to transformation are expectations and boundaries. In other words, when you tell them what you want, when you want it, and why it’s important, they can thrive. This is great because it gives them the energy to run wild within the borders. And even if they go outside the boundaries, they have the awareness to say “I went too far outside the boundary”.
CLARITY
The more clarity a person has, the more supported they feel, the more experience freedom to be themselves. An environment that over communicates expectations while giving clear boundaries, is the best place to cultivate health and growth for people with ADHD.
It leads to a healthier view of themselves. Their priorities fall into alignment, strides towards goals are in motion, and a more balanced lifestyle is being fulfilled.
People with ADHD are constantly juggling tasks, responsibilities, things they forgot last week, in addition to everyone else's problems.
Clearly communicated expectations and boundaries free them up to not be bogged down under the idea that all the pressure is on them.
Empathy leads to understanding, and understanding translates to support
Using phrases like “I want to understand” or “help me understand” communicates that you’re interested in the person. Not just what they did or didn't do. Remember understanding = support.
Be An Advocate
People with ADHD often feel misunderstood by the people closest to them. They may have been seen as undependable when they really are trying to be what people need them to be. Use your words and actions to validate the work you see them doing and to encourage them to keep going. Here’s things you could start practicing today.
Don’t constantly use their failures as motivation to change outcomes.
For people with ADHD, verbal communication (aka talking things out) can be difficult at times, especially when they don’t have it all together in their minds just yet. When they do open up about their thoughts, emotions, needs, wants and hopes, don’t shut them down with abrasive words, even if it’s said in a joking manner.
Take the time to listen, and respond thoughtfully.
Use Language That Supports
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Here's what you DON'T want to say:
“When in the world are you going to stick with something?”
“Did you take out the trash... or did you forget AGAIN?”
“Well, it’s about time you talk”
“Well look who it is”
“You wait until the last minute for THIS…?”
“You’re late to everything!”
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Here's what you want to TRY instead:
Say something kind about their thoughtfulness.
Try to connect the purpose behind the activity. (this is huge)
Give specific examples of why they matter to you.
Share their wins proudly and acknowledge when they display patience.
Tell them how you admire them and appreciate them.
Say “thank you for trying” regardless of the outcome.
Write thank you sticky notes.
Encouraging words, create courageous people
Empathy and encouragement goes tremendous ways. Do this regularly. This can be missing piece to helping someone get though current challenges. It opens the door for action, motivation and goals being accomplished.
You’re not enabling them to neglect responsibilities, you’re giving them fuel to fulfill their responsibilities.
Think of it this way, giving empathy and encouragement is like filling up a car with gas. The more fuel in the tank the further the vehicle can travel.
Something that helps everyone, whether they have ADHD or not. Fill in the blank:
“I really appreciate it when you do ______ for us.”
PREOCCUPIED is a team of certified coaches who either have ADHD or love someone who does. For that reason, we are serious about making sure people know there is support available to them!
At PREOCCUPIED we’ve helped hundreds of people (both diagnosed and undiagnosed with ADHD) through workshops and our dynamic one-on-one coaching program.
Can PREOCCUPIED help me?
