Spring has sprung! And it's time for change!
Whether you're graduating, getting a new job, getting into a new relationship, or getting out of one, we know that life changes are... well... challenging.
Listen to our episode "Handling Life Changes With ADHD" for further insight.
Disclaimer: We are not medical professionals, just two girls with ADHD.
Why Are Transitions More Challenging for Those with ADHD?
Of course, life transitions are challenging for those without ADHD, but according to this UntappedBrilliance article written by ADHD Coach Jacqueline Sinfield, "adults with ADHD can find transitions difficult, as it required a large amount of energy and effort to disengage from one activity and move attention to the next. Changing gears like this and shifting focus can leave you feeling irritated, fatigued, or scattered."
This makes sense, because, on a smaller scale, those with ADHD brains hyperfixate on tasks to get things done. Switching things up can completely disrupt our workflow and leave us scatterbrained, confused, and/or irritated, and could even result in us forgetting what we were doing entirely and leaving projects unfinished.
Larger transitions or life changes can take this same course. Yes, transitions are difficult for everyone, neurodivergent and neurotypical, but according to Hilber Psychological Services San Diego, "neurotypical people are a tad quicker and more intuitive than ADHD-brained people in making adjustments when changing circumstances require it."
We all get adjusted to routines, even though those with ADHD struggle to keep the same one overall, and shifting outside of these routines, especially without warning, can leave us feeling all over the place.
So If You're Going Through a Life Transition, What May Help?
Take a Deep Breath! Meditation Helps!
Yes, things are different. Accept that your life is changing and that change is a sign of growth. Get excited for the opportunity opening up for you. Meditation helps, and sometimes we need the time to quietly - we recommend a guided meditation for ADHD - reflect upon whatever's changed in your life. Sometimes our ADHD brains just keep going and going and going, so giving ourselves space to slow down can be a huge benefit in helping us through a major life change.
Write How You're Feeling
Journaling can be a huge stress reliever in times like these. Grab a journal and write out what you're feeling, stream-of-consciousness, and let the words fall out on the page. It may reveal why you're feeling the way you are or unveil new opportunities on the horizon.
Start Each Day With Intention
Set clear to-do lists, check-lists, or even time-block your calendar if you need to. This can help you work your way into the next phase of life you're stepping into and assist you in achieving your goals without freaking out about your past.
Establish Routine
Yes, ADHD is very anti-routine in nature, but setting a routine can help you transition into this next phase of life. Whether you're looking for a new morning routine, night routine, or something in between, it can become a sense of comfort and stability while things around you are changing. We recommend our episode "Waking Up with ADHD" for some tips on an ADHD-friendly morning. It might spark some inspiration for creating your own morning rituals.
Reach Out to Your Support Network
Change is difficult, but at least we have each other. Phone a friend or family member, vent if they're open to listening, and consider therapy to help you through the transition. Sometimes talking to someone else about your life change can be incredibly insightful and help us see the light at the end of the tunnel. Especially if you're going through a more emotional change, like a break up, this can be critical in getting through it and stepping into the next phase of life. Listen to our episode, "Diva Down! Break Ups and ADHD" to co-miserate with us.
Be Kind To Yourself
It's everyone's first time on Earth. We're all going through changes. It's normal to change and grow. Trust that you are in the right place, at the right time, and everything is going to work out for you.
Follow us on socials @AVHDPodcast to continue yapping with us, and share some tips and tricks with the community.
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