ADHD Paralysis - Feeling stuck?

A figure sits in the water with no sign of shore

Have you heard of ADHD Paralysis?

ADHD Paralysis can include:
- brain fog
- difficulty making decisions (including decisions that might otherwise feel simple) / overstimulation around decision-making
- not knowing where to start / how to prioritize tasks
- trouble organizing thoughts or sharing thoughts with others
- a pull to socially isolate
- anxiety
- avoidance of tasks
- procrastination
- feelings of irritability or being stuck

If the task is reaching the shore, we might have difficulty knowing how to swim or where the shore is.

Initiating and completing tasks can be harder for people with ADHD, especially if the task isn’t something that interests us - without dopamine to help trigger action we can end up circling the drain.

ADHD Paralysis is a normal part of having ADHD - and there are ways to work with it. Building tools that work for you can help - while also giving yourself grace to go with your flow.

Going with your flow might include:
- Taking a break
- Breaking tasks down into steps
- Moving your body
- Finding a low sensory space to reset
- Recognizing that some tasks are more challenging than others and may need more support - and that’s ok
- Finding a buddy to work alongside you
- Make space in your calendar for time to circle around to the task
- Ask yourself: “Where do I find energy?” How can you make space for what energizes you?
- Medication

I’m a counsellor with ADHD and have experienced ADHD paralysis myself - you’re not alone.

I offer virtual sessions across BC and in person sessions in Chilliwack. You’re welcome here. www.thecreativecounsellor.ca

Image made with @jennifer_marie_model