ADHD and Coping with Covid
People with ADHD brains tend to have a hard time with big life changes. In fact, we are all (neuro and non-neurotypical brains) having a hard time adjusting to lifestyle and emotional changes due to COVID.
As a result, strategies previously used to compensate for known or unknown challenges may no longer work (or be available) in the same way. Right now there is limited access to in-person social networks and physical activity outlets. As well as, huge changes in the settings and time for work and family life. Not to mention, the added stressors of job security, food purchasing and family well-being. This experience can come with a landslide of feelings such as overwhelm, anxiety, sadness, or frustration.
We want to share some simple tips to help you get through this difficult time:
Acknowledge that transitions are hard!
We are experiencing daily transitions in terms of what work, family life and leisure time looks like. It is normal to have difficult days. However, remember feelings do not last forever; they come and go like clouds in the sky. So if a day is going rough let yourself off the hook and be kind to yourself. Be in the moment with the difficult feelings. Say to yourself “this is really hard right now.” Try not to exaggerate the feelings by thinking it will always be this way or that you won’t get through it. Tomorrow is another day, with different experiences, and new moments to discover.
You are not alone in this struggle.
This is a difficult time. It is challenging figuring out a new schedule and routine. There are many worries about the future and those in our community. These are thoughts and feelings we share in. When you are having a difficult moment recognize our shared common humanity. “I am not alone in this, others are feeling this way, we are all just trying our best.” This can help you move from a place of isolation to one of connectedness.
Let things go & connect with what matters.
So your home might be messier than usual, you may be less productive, or you may be less active. It is all okay. Ask yourself can I let this go for now? Is this thought/ pressure working for me, helping me be the person deep in my heart? What sort of person do I want to be as I go through this? What do I really want to stand for in the face of this crisis? How do I want treat myself and others? What can I do that would be kind for myself?
F.A.CE. C.O.VI.D
Russ Harris has recently shared an amazing acronym F.A.CE. C.O.VI.D and video for coping and thriving during this crisis.
F= Focus on what’s in your control
A= Acknowledge your thoughts & Feelings
C= Come back into your body
E= Engage in what you’re doing
C= Committed action
O= Opening up
V= Values
I= Identify resources
D= Disinfect & distance
As always we are available for virtual and phone sessions. Reach out to us or someone close to you if you are in need of support or connection.
Be safe, be well,
The Bmindful Team
