Understanding Dopamine's Role in ADHD

Dopamine significantly impacts motivation, focus, and reward, particularly for individuals with ADHD who naturally have lower levels. When dopamine levels spike due to a stimulating activity, they eventually crash, leading to a higher baseline that requires increasingly intense experiences to achieve the same satisfaction. This cycle makes it difficult for those with ADHD to initiate and complete tasks, as they may not receive the dopamine 'reward' necessary for motivation. Understanding this chemical underpinning helps explain the tendency to struggle with follow-through and the challenge of finding enjoyment in activities that once brought pleasure.