Working with ADHD clients has shown me it is never JUST ADHD symptoms alone that clients are trying to figure out.
Yes, understanding and managing ADHD is critical !...but looking beyond the obvious symptoms to address the factors that often accompany it ( and have been for years) such as anxiety, sleep patterns, caffeine sensitivity, depression and co-occurring conditions like autism is essential to feeling better.
Considering how each of these elements can profoundly affect my clients mental well-being forms the basis of my UNTANGLING ADHD sessions.
Using a details and comprehensive approach that considers these overlapping influences can make a world of difference in how clients experience and manage ADHD.
Many clients face additional challenges that can exacerbate ADHD symptoms or make management more difficult.
Such as
ADHD and Anxiety
ADHD and Autism
ADHD and Sleep issues
ADHD and OCD
ADHD and Depression
ADHD and Menopause issues
ADHD and Dyslexia
One of the most common challenges are when ADHD and ANXIETY are both present.
Anxiety is a common experience for those with ADHD. It can play a major part in heightening impulsivity, distractibility, emotional regulation and feelings of overwhelm.
As an intensifier of ADHD symptoms, working on the root cause of the anxiety (often found in the years of poor life experiences undiagnosed ADHDers have endured) supports effective progress in therapy.
Similarly, sleep issues—which are often overlooked—can make it nearly impossible to manage symptoms effectively. A poor night’s sleep due to a hyperactive mind or work addiction can result in heightened distractibility, irritability, and an overall reduced ability to focus.
Understanding the Impact of Lifestyle Choices on ADHD Symptoms
As a British psychotherapist with a specialty in ADHD, I work with clients to identify the role lifestyle choices play in their symptoms.
For example, caffeine is commonly consumed to boost energy and focus, but for those with ADHD, caffeine can be a double-edged sword. While some people with ADHD find caffeine helps them concentrate, others experience increased jitteriness and anxiety, which can aggravate symptoms. Part of my approach is helping clients identify their unique responses to stimulants like caffeine and those in the environment around them.
Addressing Co-occurring Conditions
Many individuals with ADHD also experience co-occurring conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Both ADHD and ASD involve overlapping traits, like difficulty with social cues, sensory sensitivities, and challenges with executive functioning.
For clients managing both conditions, a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work.
The Value of a Holistic, Individualised Approach
My work with clients is centered on crafting personalised strategies that acknowledge their full experience, not just their ADHD symptoms.
By taking a holistic approach, we can address all the moving parts—caffeine use, sleep, anxiety, and more—in a way that empowers clients. It’s this blend of targeted ADHD strategies with broader lifestyle adjustments that enables my clients to see real progress and feel more balanced in their daily lives.
Addressing ADHD effectively means embracing all the factors that impact mental well-being. With the right approach, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms and thrive. My goal is to guide clients through this journey, giving them the skills and insight to lead lives that feel more aligned, focused, and fulfilling.
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