Personal Strategies for Managing ADHD: The Experimentation Approach

This chapter focuses on the individual's journey of experimenting with various methods to manage ADHD symptoms, particularly through personal experiences like cold showers for anxiety relief. It underscores the importance of tailoring strategies to fit one's unique needs and the idea of being one's own 'human guinea pig' in discovering effective approaches.

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Transcript

Episode notes

In this episode, Matt and Andrew discuss how to take control of ADHD. They emphasize the importance of understanding ADHD on a personal level and the need to break down the question of taking control. The conversation covers topics such as anxiety, cortisol levels, challenges with executive function, and the importance of stopping and decompressing. They highlight the significance of reducing fear and paying attention to emotional responses. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of experimentation and finding personalized solutions. This part of the conversation explores the temptation of seeking something new and shiny when faced with challenges, such as time blindness and perception of time. It emphasizes the importance of taking a step back, making rational choices, and facing the consequences of our actions. The discussion also delves into the effectiveness of ADHD apps and supplements, highlighting the need for a scientific and individualized approach. Ultimately, the key takeaway is that taking control of ADHD requires understanding oneself, seeking support, and making informed decisions. In this episode, Matt and Andrew discuss how to take control of ADHD. They emphasize the importance of experimentation and learning, as well as refining questions to prevent repeated mistakes. They introduce the concept of using the five Ws (what, why, when, who, how) to identify the problem and explore different solutions. They also highlight the need to take time, be mindful, and avoid rushing through the process. Ultimately, they emphasize that ADHD is a personal journey and encourage individuals to define what they want to improve or change.

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Topic

03:03 Understanding ADHD and Personal Experience

11:31 Anxiety and Cortisol Levels

25:29 Challenges with Executive Function

38:13 The Importance of Stopping and Decompressing

45:14 Reducing Fear and Paying Attention to Responses

51:26 Experimentation and Personalized Solutions

57:04 Time Blindness and Perception of Time

01:01:37 Living in the Now and Facing Consequences

01:07:31 The Challenges of Decision-Making

01:11:27 Medication and Human Support Strategies

01:17:46 The Reality of ADHD Apps