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Writer's pictureBrooke Schnittman MA, PCC, BCC

Breaking the Chains of ADHD Paralysis

Updated: Dec 4, 2023

Many ADHDers relate to the feeling of being STUCK or PARALYZED.

We might feel paralyzed by…

  • Guilt or shame from past social interactions

  • Starting a task

  • Making a choice

  • Waiting for an appointment, a friend to arrive, etc

ADHD paralysis is typically caused by an overload of emotion, information, or both. Decoding the Paralysis Loop: Emotions and Information Overload ADHD paralysis is often rooted in an interplay of intense emotions and information overload. The journey through this loop is familiar:

  1. Information Absorption: Individuals with ADHD tend to absorb a plethora of information, often seeking to grasp every detail.

  2. Escalating Overwhelm: The abundance of information can quickly escalate into overwhelming thoughts and sensations.

  3. Emotional Frustration: As overwhelm sets in, emotions can intensify, leading to feelings of frustration, inadequacy, and self-criticism.

  4. The Vicious Spiral: The culmination of emotional distress and cognitive overload traps individuals in a cycle of paralysis, preventing any meaningful action.


If you're ready to break free from ADHD paralysis, consider trying the following:


  • S.T.O.P. When you are paralyzed in a spiral...

    • STOP

    • Take a few deep breaths

    • Observe yourself and the situation

    • Practice a method that works for you


  • When struggling with TASK INITIATION, ask yourself...

    • Do I HAVE to complete this now or can I come back to it later?

    • What is the most manageable step right now?

    • Can I set a timer and do this for just 10 minutes? 5 minutes?

    • Can I call a friend to talk it out or maybe even get help?


  • IF YOU NEED HELP MANAGING ADHD EMOTIONS...Healing ADHD Emotions is an 8-week group coaching journey to heal the past and develop emotional regulation skills for life.


You've got this,

Brooke



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