Emotional regulation — and yelling — as a mom with ADHD (Patricia Sung’s story)
Oct 1, 2024
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Patricia Sung, a mother and podcast host diagnosed with ADHD in college, shares her transformative journey as a parent navigating emotional regulation. She candidly discusses her experiences with 'raging'—the sudden eruption of emotions—and offers practical strategies for better management. Patricia highlights the unique challenges ADHD moms face, the importance of self-compassion, and the need to celebrate small victories. Her insights empower others to embrace their journey, fostering a supportive community among mothers with ADHD.
Patricia emphasizes that motherhood amplifies ADHD challenges, necessitating the development of tailored coping mechanisms for effective management.
Emotional regulation is crucial for mothers with ADHD, highlighting the need to recognize stress levels before they escalate into outbursts.
Deep dives
The Impact of ADHD on Motherhood
Motherhood presents unique challenges for individuals with ADHD, as the responsibilities often amplify existing struggles. One guest shared her realization that the strategies she previously used to manage her ADHD were inadequate once she became a mother. The combination of sleep deprivation and the demands of caring for a child exacerbated her difficulties in organization and time management. This experience catalyzed a deeper exploration of her ADHD and the development of new coping mechanisms tailored to her role as a mom.
The Emotional Toll of ADHD
Emotional regulation is a significant challenge for many mothers with ADHD, as heightened stress can lead to overwhelming feelings and explosive reactions. One speaker described how daily stressors accumulate throughout the day, often leading to an abrupt emotional outburst when the pressure becomes too great. Recognizing this pattern, she emphasized the importance of identifying stress levels before they escalate, allowing mothers to implement strategies to prevent emotional explosions. This journey involves understanding and managing the impact of external stimuli and their effects on one’s emotional state.
Recognizing and Celebrating Small Wins
Recognizing and celebrating small successes can foster a positive mindset for mothers with ADHD. One speaker recounted a moment where she engaged her children with curiosity about a map instead of slipping into mindless distraction by technology. This simple act reinforced the idea that even small, intentional decisions can contribute to better parenting experiences. By celebrating these 'glimmers,' mothers can build a framework of positivity and progress, shifting their focus from feelings of inadequacy to acknowledging the improvements they are making.
Empowerment through Community and Resources
Engaging with communities and resources designed for mothers with ADHD can provide essential support and encouragement. One guest highlighted the importance of connecting with others who share similar experiences, as it can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide practical strategies for managing day-to-day challenges. She shared her own journey of creating a podcast and resources aimed at empowering mothers, emphasizing the importance of accessible information and community support. The message is clear: no one has to navigate the challenges of ADHD alone, and seeking help is a vital step toward self-acceptance and personal growth.
Patricia Sung was diagnosed with ADHD in her first year of college. It wasn’t until she became a mother, and other people relied on her, that she realized just how much ADHD affected her.
Patricia now hosts the Motherhood in ADHD podcast. Join Patricia and host Laura Key as they talk about managing emotions with ADHD. Patricia explains the concept of “raging” — that moment when you go from 99 to 100 and emotions boil over. She also shares strategies that can help.
Want to share your “aha” moment? We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.
Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give
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