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neurotransmitters

ADHD: Is Dopamine The Real Problem?

Day 27: The Problem

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ADHD…you think the problem is Dopamine…what if it’s not?

Don’t misunderstand me. When it comes to a formal diagnosis of ADHD, Dopamine, Seratonin and Norepinephrine are often involved. (And by the way I am NOT a medical professional. Should you wish to pursue an ADHD diagnosis, you should speak with your primary medical provider.)

But what I’m asking about is the part of ADHD that’s causing you the most pain. The part that’s giving you the most trouble. The symptoms that show up for you and how they make you feel about yourself.

If I were to ask you “why are adhd tendencies a problem for you?” You may say:

  • I just can’t make myself finish what I start.

  • I feel so disorganized.

  • It’s so hard for me to even get started.

  • Before I know it the day is gone.

  • I can’t find what I’m looking for.

  • I work hard and don’t seem to make any progress.

  • I can get so easily distracted or sidetracked.

  • Sometimes I just feel so bad I don’t want to even get out of bed and do anything.

  • I should want to be more involved.

  • I should be better at gettiing things done.

  • I’m horrible at managing my money.

The list goes on and on.

While Dopamine (and the other neurotransmitters) may be a part of what’s causing the problem.

The REAL problem is what you’re doing or not doing because of those neurotransmitters.

The REAL problem is what you’re making ADHD mean about you and your abilities.

The REAL problem is the shame that you feel and the boredom that you’re afraid to feel.

What I know for sure is that some of that, a lot of that, is actually within your control.

Say what?!

Yes, there is a percentage of ability that we all have to manage our brains better if we want to.

We have the capacity to use our brain as a tool instead of allowing it the freedom to work against us.

Come again?

Very often when we don’t manage our minds, whether we have adhd or not, our minds will work against us.

In an effort to keep us safe. This is true if you have adhd as well.

When you learn how to manage your mind effectively, your adhd symptoms will naturally be affected. They can be lessened.

You can experience your AHD in a new and improved way.

Learning to choose the way that you want to think about things will help you to better manage your feelings.

When you are actively managing your feelings, you will directly effect what you are doing (and not doing) in your day to day life.

Not sure? I’d love to jump on a consult with you so you can experience how it works.