Annual ADHD Conference Takeaways!
The Annual ADHD Conference sponsored by ACO, ADDA, and CHADD was Nov 14 to 16 in Anaheim, CA. This was the first time I went and I am grateful for the opportunity.
It’s amazing to feel part of a community. I returned refreshed, excited, and grounded.
Below are my takeaways.
There is something very nurturing about feeling seen and heard. It was exciting and peaceful at the same time. Find people who support you for who you are!
We are all doing our best in this moment with the information we have.
It’s refreshing to be in sessions where playing with fidgets and moving around is normalized.
Our microbiome are influenced by stress. People with ADHD often have greater stress responses which can lead to increased inflammation. Explore what works for you and trust your gut. (pun intended)
We need short-term mood repair. Try to Name It, Tame It, and Claim It.
Respect the nervous system you have. Be aware of your Window of Tolerance (WoT). To increase your WoT, build a nervous system balancing routine - about 15 minutes/day of something calming - rotate things (meditation, HeartMath, visualization, etc.). It’s not easy.
Many people with ADHD are holding onto shame from earlier in life. Consider Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help heal your internal parts.
Try the 5 P’s: Presence, Patience, Persistence, Perspective, and Playfulness.
SHAME: Should Have Already Mastered Everything
Figure out your energy levels and how to schedule your time accordingly.
People with ADHD are at a higher risk for disordered eating. It’s normal to eat when stressed, but eating can’t be your only method to reduce stress.
Diabetes is also higher in people with ADHD. High blood glucose is not just about the carbs. Stress and other factors are large contributors.
I hope some of these are helpful for you.
