ADHD makes listening challenging because it affects working memory, attention regulation, and impulse control — the exact executive functions needed to track a conversation. This is neurological, not a character flaw. Practical strategies like reflecting back what you heard, using fidgets, and pausing before speaking can meaningfully improve presence and connection.
Read MoreThe Pervasive Problem of Misinformation
We're living in an era where misinformation spreads faster than ever before. Social media platforms, while valuable for connection and support, can also become breeding grounds for unverified claims and pseudoscience.
For the ADHD community, this is particularly concerning. People seeking genuine help might encounter miracle cures with no scientific backing, oversimplified explanations of complex neurological conditions, harmful stereotypes dressed up as "tips," and outdated information presented as current.
Just this week, I spotted a post in my Facebook feed claiming that a common household item could "reset" ADHD brain chemistry in just three days. The post had hundreds of shares and comments from hopeful individuals. As someone who serves on my professional organization's research committee, alarm bells immediately rang in my head.
After diving into the research literature and consulting with colleagues, I confirmed what my instincts suggested—there was no scientific evidence supporting this claim. Yet, how many people might have tried this approach, potentially delaying their pursuit of evidence-based treatments?
This is why we need to develop our "misinformation radar" and take active steps when we encounter questionable content. Rather than simply scrolling past, we can choose to investigate further, report harmful content, and gently educate others by sharing reliable resources.
Your critical thinking isn't just protecting you—it's safeguarding our entire community.
Read MoreWhen we capture those important tasks, there are typically a few more steps that our brains require before we can truly get into action. When it comes to planning & prioritizing, what does your brain need most?
Read MoreI personally prefer to focus on goals vs resolutions. I'm a firm believer that words matter. Resolutions feel judgmental to me - like we need to fix something that is broken or incomplete. Where's the joy in that?
Read MoreIf it weren’t for COIVD, I would encourage you to hug your favorite human with ADHD. I’m certain, if you simply ask, they will come up with a better “handshake” than the elbow bump.
Read MoreThe pandemic brain is significantly impacted by chronic psychological stress, which can diminish the brain’s prefrontal-cortex and damage neurons, also impacting dopamine and serotonin production and transmission. Take a deep, cleansing breath. This is not the end of the story. It is just the beginning.
Read MoreThe awareness that this uncomfortable feeling inside many of us is a movement through the grief process resonates with many of us. The lack of structure and finality to this pandemic has rattled many humans who have weathered the storm up to a point.
Read MoreA common observation and question from clients during the pandemic is “Where has my motivation gone to?” This prompted a great conversation with a summer intern here at Coaching Cville. High school senior Lindsay Simpson is no stranger to managing her own motivation, so I invited her to blog for Coaching Cville about the strategies that she finds useful to “get things done.” I hope this post inspires you to uncover ways to move forward when you are feeling stuck.
Read MoreWhile flipping the switch and moving from one task to another is unavoidable throughout the day, understanding how to accommodate for these transitions can empower you to choose how you approach your tasks and accomplish daily goals.
Read MoreIf counting the days - or simply remembering what day it is - feels hard, you are not alone.
Read MoreWhile distance learning may be working for some kiddos, it is not a cakewalk for everyone. Don’t be afraid to take the road less traveled on this journey.
Read MoreSome days, we parents are killing it, am I right? Everyone is fed, educated, and connected to the world. And then there are the days like the above scenario when we are hanging on by a thread, hitting the pillow exhausted, and possibly feeling a little defeated trying to lean into this whole scenario.
Read MoreThe streets are empty. Traffic is nearly nonexistent. Grocery shelves are empty. Toilet paper is being hoarded. Clorox wipes and Lysol spray is nowhere to be found.
Read MoreTo truly let go and follow the flow of the music, the steps, the gentle nudges, and sometimes the missteps. It was, at times, uncomfortable, but when we found our rhythm and flow, it was amazing and joyful and liberating.
Read MoreEvery year, I make a reach goal to do one thing that scares me intellectually. I tend to gravitate towards something that forces me to face a demon and conquer it. This November, I will be speaking at the Annual International Conference on ADHD (formerly the CHADD Conference) with one of my colleagues about fostering better relationships with your partner.
Read MoreHandle it once to cut down on the number of decisions you are making about the paper in your home.
Read MoreClutter is hard - it creeps up on you, often to the point where you suddenly feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the task. Closets are the spaces that hide my dirty secrets, and thankfully closets are small enough to create big wins…
Read MoreFor the majority of shopping struggles, shopping is likely to feel like one of two tasks: a chore or a spree. To tone down the love-hate relationship with shopping, I find it helps to incorporate the PINCH motivators to keep shopping habits under control.
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