ADHD's hallmark symptoms, including dissociation, often go unnoticed. This weekly series focuses on overlooked aspects of ADHD and offers expert advice on managing these symptoms.

Dissociation and ADHD: An Overview

• People with ADHD are more likely to experience dissociation, feeling detached from their surroundings and selves.
• ADHD individuals who have experienced trauma are more prone to dissociation.
• Dissociation is not an official ADHD symptom, but the two conditions often co-occur.

Understanding Dissociation

• Dissociation encompasses various disorders in which individuals escape reality to cope with stress or trauma.
• Depersonalization and derealization are forms of dissociation, causing detachment from oneself or surroundings.
• Dissociative absorption can cause extreme absorption in imaginary worlds, leading to a diminished awareness of oneself and surroundings.

The Link Between Dissociation and ADHD

• Dissociative disorders are often associated with trauma, which is closely linked to ADHD.
• Trauma can induce ADHD-like symptoms in children without the disorder.
• ADHD individuals may be more susceptible to trauma due to bullying, abuse, or negative experiences related to their symptoms.

Managing Dissociative Symptoms

• Seek Therapy: Therapy can help address dissociation as a coping mechanism for emotional pain.
• Grounding Exercises: Focusing on one's senses and surroundings can bring individuals back to the present moment.
• Sensory Stimulation: Engaging the senses can help reconnect individuals with their bodies. Activities like petting a cat, lighting a scented candle, or walking barefoot on grass can be helpful.
• Physical Exercise: Exercise can stimulate the senses and provide positive physical sensations, helping individuals reconnect with their bodies.
• Journaling: Writing in a journal can help individuals connect with their emotions, identify triggers, and develop strategies for returning to reality.
• Self-Care Activities: Building a positive relationship with oneself can counteract dissociation caused by stress or a negative body image. Engage in self-care activities like bubble baths or dance sessions.