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Tips for Helping Someone with ADHD

by | Jan 28, 2025

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be challenging not only for the person who has it but also for those around them. Understanding ADHD is the first step to better relationships, improved communication, and effective support. ADHD can manifest in several ways, notably through issues with concentration, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, but also through less obvious symptoms such as hyperfocus and emotional dysregulation.

Hyperfocus is one such aspect where an individual with ADHD becomes so engrossed in a task that they become oblivious to the world around them. This can lead to neglecting other responsibilities or missing social cues. It’s beneficial to recognize when your loved one is likely to enter a state of hyperfocus and to establish agreements on how to manage time effectively. For example, setting alarms that require physical movement to deactivate can help break the hyperfocus state.

Emotional dysregulation is another challenge. Individuals with ADHD often experience intense emotions and may have difficulty returning to a calm state. This can result from a lifetime of feeling different or misunderstood due to their symptoms. It’s crucial for partners to understand this sensitivity and provide support through clear, compassionate communication and by establishing a predictable environment that helps reduce unnecessary stress.

Rejection sensitivity is a common yet often overlooked symptom of ADHD. Due to frequent feelings of rejection or failure, a person with ADHD may interpret neutral actions or expressions as negative. If you’re in a relationship with someone with ADHD, be mindful of how you express frustration or disappointment. Transparent and affirmative communication can help mitigate feelings of rejection and support a positive relational dynamic.

Organization challenges are prevalent in individuals with ADHD. They might struggle with keeping track of tasks or maintaining an orderly environment. To support a loved one with ADHD, consider strategies that enhance organization, such as using planners, apps, or alarms that remind them of upcoming deadlines or important dates.

Living with someone who has ADHD can also impact your own mental health. It’s important to recognize your own needs and set boundaries that ensure you are taking care of yourself. Engaging in open dialogues about your feelings and experiences, and seeking external support if needed, can maintain the health of your relationship.

Support strategies might include:

  • Setting realistic expectations: Understand the limitations and challenges of ADHD and adjust your expectations accordingly.
  • Creating routines: Regular and predictable patterns can help manage ADHD symptoms.
  • Seeking professional help: Therapy, either individually or as a couple, can provide strategies to cope with challenges and improve relationship dynamics.

Finally, remember that ADHD affects each person differently. A strategy that works for one individual might not work for another. Continuous communication, patience, and empathy are key in navigating ADHD in a relationship. Supporting a partner with ADHD isn't just about managing symptoms but also about embracing their strengths and fostering mutual understanding and respect.