Category: Uncategorized

ADHD Focus Myths: What You Need to Know About Hyperfocus

Misconceptions About ADHD and Focus

Many people mistakenly believe that individuals with ADHD are incapable of focusing, this is simply not the case for many individuals with ADHD. Those with ADHD often experience periods of hyperfocus, where their attention on a particular task is so intense that it can be difficult to distract them. While hyperfocus is not listed as a symptom of ADHD within the current version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, its prevalence in those with ADHD is becoming greatly recognized. Hyperfocus can be both a strength and a challenge for those with ADHD. 

The misconception that people with ADHD are incapable of focusing can lead to misunderstandings and underestimations of the capabilities of people with ADHD. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ADHD, it’s crucial to understand the benefits and challenges of hyperfocus to ensure long term flourishing. 

The Positives of Hyperfocus

1. Enhanced Productivity

• When engaged in tasks they are passionate about, individuals with ADHD can achieve exceptional results, completing work with high precision and creativity.

2. Deep Engagement: 

• This intense focus allows for a deeper understanding and mastery of subjects, making it beneficial in fields requiring sustained attention.

3. Flow State

• Many describe hyperfocus as entering a “flow state,” where tasks feel effortless and enjoyable.

The Challenges of Hyperfocus

1. Neglect of Other Responsibilities

•  Hyperfocus can lead to the neglect of everyday tasks and responsibilities, causing issues in personal and professional life.

2. Difficulty Transitioning

• Shifting attention from one task to another can be challenging, leading to frustration and time management challenges.

3. Potential for Burnout

•  The intensity of hyperfocus sessions can be exhausting, leading to physical and mental fatigue.

Managing Hyperfocus

1. Identify Attention Grabbers

•  Through recognizing what activates your hyperfocus, you can take proactive steps to take control of your time 

2. Set Alarms and Reminders

•  Use technology to set reminders for breaks and transitions to other tasks.

3. Structured Schedule

•  Creating a structured daily routine can help balance hyperfocus sessions with other responsibilities.

4. Prioritize Tasks

•  Identify and prioritize essential tasks to ensure critical responsibilities are not overlooked.

If hyperfocus is impacting your daily life, it’s important to take proactive steps. Setting alarms, maintaining a structured schedule, and prioritizing tasks can help you manage your time better. However, if you find it difficult to manage on your own, speaking with a therapist can be incredibly beneficial. Our team of female psychologists at California Women’s Therapy has expertise in working with clients with ADHD and is accepting new clients.

*****

This blog was written by Corinna Hall – Summer Intern with California Women’s Therapy.

References: 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325681#treatment-options

https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/hyperfocus-flow

Tips for Balancing College with Rehab and Recovery

College students are under a lot of pressure, and many students engage in risky behaviors like substance abuse. If you’re a student in recovery, you can get help even while you attend school. It’s important to make sure you have everything you need to lead a healthy life. Creating a good balance between school and recovery starts with taking care of yourself and knowing that you’re not alone. Here are a few ways you can give yourself every opportunity to succeed.

1. Learn how to manage your stress in a healthy way.

Most college students are dealing with new levels of anxiety and stress brought on by the workload of classes and extracurricular activities. It’s easy to see why young adults justify using alcohol and drugs to help them relax or take the edge off the pressures of higher education. However, there are better, more sustainable ways to deal with being overwhelmed by the academic and social aspects of college. Here are some examples of stress prevention and healthy coping mechanisms:

• Sign up for a manageable class load.
• Set aside enough study time.
• Talk to your professor right away if you fall behind.
• Make time for safe social activities on campus.
• Prioritize regular exercise to improve mood and stay healthy.
• Try meditating regularly to unwind and check in with yourself.
• Get plenty of sleep.

2. Room with someone sober.

Many colleges give students the option of requesting a roommate who is either sober or also in recovery. If you can room with someone on the same page as you about sober living, it’s going to make daily life less stressful. Having a roommate who parties and keeps alcohol or drugs in shared areas might be too tempting or create an environment unsuitable for someone going through recovery. Surround yourself with the kind of people who will help you reach your goals, not hinder your progress.

3. Get involved on campus.

If you’re balancing your schoolwork well and find yourself wondering what to do with your free time, consider taking up a sport or hobby. Join a club that focuses on one of your interests. Not only will this solve the problem of boredom, but being an active member of the school opens opportunities for friendship and a chance to make lifelong memories.

4. Establish and maintain healthy boundaries.

As a young adult in higher education, you want to fit in with your fellow students and make friends, but peer pressure can get the best of anyone and lead down a slippery slope. Establishing boundaries beforehand will prepare you for inevitable awkward situations. Accept that it’s OK to say “no.” Remember, if you constantly find yourself in environments where people who know you’re in recovery still push your boundaries, it’s time to find a new crowd.

5. Seek out safe social spaces.

As fun as it is to go to a party, it’s best to avoid gatherings where drugs and alcohol will be present. There are plenty of other ways to pass time and have fun with friends outside the classroom. For example, many campuses have collegiate recovery programs that put on regular social events for students in recovery. As a two-for-one, you can join a study group for one of your classes and make studying more social and a little more fun.

6. Take care of your mental health.

Issues with drugs and alcohol often go hand-in-hand with other mental health concerns such as anxiety, trauma, and depression. If you or a loved one is interested in exploring treatment, we encourage you to reach out to a licensed professional. Our team would be happy to speak with you about ways we can help.

*This blog post was adapted by Dr. Talia Barach from the following article: Addiction Recovery During Higher Education by Intelligent.com Higher Education Team. To read the full article which covers: which substances pose the greatest risks to young adults, the potential consequences of being caught, how to get better, and recovery resources, please use the following link: https://www.intelligent.com/substance-abuse-recovery-support-guide-for-college-students/.