In The Arena Therapy

Do not give up today. You are not a burden. They will not be better off without you. It is not hopeless.

People with ADHD tend to be forgetful! This is due to impairments in their working memory and focus. As a kid, each time I’d leave the house, my dad would never say bye, he’d always say, “See you in a minute!”, because I’d inevitably forget something and return to the house as quickly as I’d left. This followed me into adulthood, even though I am now medicated and educated on ADHD. I now understand that it is a disorder of executive functioning. Our brain’s executive functions include things like self-motivation, working memory, inhibition, emotional regulation, planning and prioritizing. No wonder people with ADHD struggle with procrastination, forgetfulness and disorganization! But there is hope! There are great supplements, medications, coaching and life structuring strategies that can help tremendously. Spouses often ask us, “How do I deal with my partner’s frustrating ADHD symptoms?” We suggest: Educate yourself on the condition, encourage treatment, offer gentle reminders, and show them grace and compassion. I think my husband gets it now. This was his note to me this morning, and I am so grateful. ☺️