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Understanding
ADHD and Trauma
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Adults with ADHD may struggle with time management, organization, maintaining focus, hyper-awareness, and a sense of being overwhelmed.
Trauma can stem from various experiences such as emotional, physical, or sexual abuse in childhood, being the victim or witnessing violence, sudden loss, or even long-term exposure to chronic stressors such as poverty. Trauma can significantly impact how an
individual manages their ADHD symptoms.
Key
Strategies for Managing Symptoms
- Awareness and Education: Understand how ADHD and trauma interact. Recognizing this connection can help you develop strategies that are tailored to your unique needs. Working with Trauma specialists to identify your triggers and trauma response system will help you reduce the impact of ADHD and triggers.
- Mood Monitoring: Keeping track of mood changes can help identify patterns related to ADHD symptoms and trauma triggers. This can involve journaling or using mood-tracking apps to record daily feelings, emotional responses to situations, and physical sensations.
- Therapeutic Support: Consider therapy modalities that specifically address both ADHD and trauma, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), but makes sure all treatment includes trauma-informed care.
- Mindfulness Practices: Engage in mindfulness exercises to improve emotional regulation and reduce anxiety. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can promote a greater sense of calm.
- Routine Establishment: Develop a structured daily routine that includes time for work, self-care, and enjoyable activities. Consistency can be beneficial in managing ADHD symptoms.
- Medication Management: Consult with a healthcare professional regarding medication options that can help manage ADHD symptoms, particularly if experiencing symptoms exacerbated by trauma.
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Tool: Monitoring
and Tracking Mood Changes
Mood Tracker Template: Write the following across the top line in a notebook.
|
Date |
Mood Rating 1-10 |
Triggers |
Notes/Reflections |
-
-
-
How
to Use the Tracker
•
Mood Rating: Rate your mood on a scale of
1-10 (1 being very low, 10 being very high).
•
Triggers: Note events or situations that
might have influenced your mood on that day.
•
Notes/Reflections: Write a few sentences
about your day, feelings, and any coping strategies you used.
•
Talk with your Therapist: Bing this to
your therapy appointment so you can target reoccurring triggers and mood
changes with SPECIFIC planned responses.
Conclusion
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Resources for Further Reading and Support
Books:
“ADHD
2.0: New Thoughts About Attention and Learning in Children and Adults” by
Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey.
“The
Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma” by
Bessel van der Kolk.
Websites:
ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association)
CHADD (Children and Adults with
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
Support
Groups:
Local
ADHD support groups and trauma support groups can provide community and shared
experiences. Check local mental health organizations for listings.
If you have any questions or need personalized
support, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional.
Note: This handout is meant for
informational purposes only and does not serve as a replacement for
professional advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for concerns related
to ADHD, trauma, or mental health.
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