David Sitt, a licensed clinical psychologist from New York City and author of "ADHD Refocused," shares his insights on navigating adult ADHD. He discusses the lack of resources for adults, emphasizing the need for mindset shifts and emotional awareness. Sitt explores the impact of technology, introducing the term 'techno ADHD,' and stresses the importance of mindfulness in managing attention challenges. With personal anecdotes, he highlights strategies and individualized approaches for therapy, making it a relatable and informative conversation.
Dr. David Sitt emphasizes the importance of lived experiences in shaping effective ADHD treatment strategies for adults.
The podcast discusses the adverse effects of 'techno ADHD,' advocating for mindful technology use and intentional breaks to enhance focus.
Deep dives
Understanding ADHD Through Lived Experience
Dr. David Sitt shares insights gained from his personal journey with ADHD, which began while he was in graduate school. He encountered difficulties managing academic demands, leading him to seek evaluation and subsequently discover his ADHD diagnosis. This experience prompted him to focus his clinical practice on ADHD, particularly for adults, as he recognized a significant lack of resources in this area. His journey emphasizes the value of lived experiences that inform the clinical understanding and treatment of ADHD, ultimately guiding others toward successful management strategies.
Navigating Emotions and Mindsets in ADHD
The discussion highlights crucial mindsets that individuals with ADHD can adopt to improve their day-to-day management. One key idea is understanding that perfectionism can hinder progress; aiming for 80% success can reduce feelings of guilt and shame associated with missed expectations. Additionally, recognizing and labeling emotions is vital, as it helps individuals not to identify as their negative feelings but to see them as separate entities that they can manage. Implementing daily routines to embrace curiosity and self-forgiveness also contributes to a more constructive mindset when dealing with ADHD challenges.
The Impact of Technology on Attention and Focus
Dr. Sitt addresses the phenomenon of 'techno ADHD,' where contemporary distractions from digital devices disrupt attention spans and exacerbate ADHD symptoms. He advocates for a mindful relationship with technology, emphasizing the need for intentional breaks from devices to cultivate awareness and improve focus. Observing technology use through a lens of the dopamine feedback loop illustrates how social media can lead to constant distractions and diminished attention. By unplugging regularly, individuals can reconnect with their inner selves and reduce reliance on technology as a means of stimulation.
Dr. David Sitt is a licensed clinical psychologist in New York City with extensive experience as a therapist, evaluator, and educator. We talk to him about ADHD, and his book ADHD Refocused.
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