Legendary comedian Shaparak Khorsandi talks about her new book 'Scatterbrain' and living with late diagnosis ADHD. The hosts discuss the concept of a nation of drivers and the ethical dilemmas of accepting money. They also explore the impact of undiagnosed ADHD, improving emotional regulation, and embracing neurodiversity.
ADHD is characterized by executive function problems, leading to difficulties in staying organized, regulating emotions, and following through with tasks.
Undiagnosed ADHD can have significant negative effects, including reduced life expectancy and higher risk of accidental injury, suicides, and divorces.
Coming to terms with an ADHD diagnosis requires self-compassion and acceptance, focusing on the present and future, seeking therapy, and embracing one's strengths.
Deep dives
Understanding the Executive Function Problem of ADHD
ADHD is characterized by executive function problems, which are the skills that help individuals transition from being a child to an adult. These skills include time management, impulse control, attention focus, memory, and emotional regulation. In individuals with ADHD, these executive functions are hampered, leading to difficulties in staying organized, regulating emotions, staying focused, and following through with tasks. It's like having a one-track dirt road instead of a well-functioning data highway in the brain. The communication between the rational and impulsive parts of the brain is not strong, making it hard to control impulses, focus attention, and regulate emotions. This can lead to challenges in various aspects of life, including relationships, education, and overall well-being.
The Impact of Undiagnosed ADHD
Undiagnosed ADHD can have significant negative effects on individuals' lives. It can lead to a reduced life expectancy, as much as 21 years in some cases. With undiagnosed ADHD, there is a higher risk of accidental injury, suicide, and divorces due to emotional dysregulation and other challenges associated with the condition. Many individuals with ADHD also experience misdiagnosis and may be treated for conditions like depression or anxiety, leading to a lack of appropriate support. The impact of undiagnosed ADHD extends beyond the individual, affecting their relationships and the people around them. Addressing and treating ADHD through medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments can help improve overall well-being and reduce the negative consequences of the condition.
Finding Acceptance and Moving Forward with ADHD
Coming to terms with an ADHD diagnosis can bring a mix of emotions, including sadness, anger, and relief. It is essential to provide oneself with compassion and acceptance, acknowledging that this is one's unique journey. Building self-esteem, healing past wounds, and practicing self-compassion are important steps in moving forward. While it is natural to reflect on the past and wonder what could have been different with an earlier diagnosis, focusing on the present and the future can bring a sense of freedom and happiness. Seeking therapy, learning coping strategies, and embracing one's strengths can help individuals with ADHD thrive and live fulfilling lives.
The Challenges of Managing ADHD
The podcast episode reflects on the difficulties of managing ADHD and highlights the impact it can have on relationships. The speaker shares personal experiences of struggling with ADHD while on tour and how it affected their ability to focus and complete tasks, leading to feelings of being overwhelmed and directionless. They emphasize the importance of therapy, medication, and support in navigating ADHD, which can help individuals find peace, regulate their emotions better, and improve their relationships with loved ones.
Neurodiversity and the Unique Cognitive Style of ADHD
The episode explores the concept of neurodiversity and challenges the perception of ADHD as a disorder. The speaker views ADHD as a different cognitive style specific to a unique kind of mind, noting its potential advantages and disadvantages. They discuss the evolutionary theory suggesting that the ADHD brain was developed to thrive in an environment where constant novelty and risk-taking were necessary. However, they also acknowledge that the modern world's demands and structure do not always accommodate this cognitive style. With proper understanding, acceptance, and support, the ADHD mind can unlock distinct talents and excel in areas such as hyperfocus and creative thinking.
“Jon, Mark & Ed talk with special guest legendary comedian Shaparak Khorsandi about her new book ‘Scatterbrain’ and her experiences (and Mark’s) of living with late diagnosis ADHD. Well worth listening to the end of this one 😉”
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