I have been re-reading Attention Deficit Disorder; The Unfocused Mind in Children and Adults by Thomas E. Brown, PH.D. A concept he has touched upon is how life changes can exacerbate the symptoms of ADD. Life changes are events such as:
- Marriage/combining households
- New baby
- New job
- Retirement
- Family death
- Changing of the seasons
This is by no means an exhaustive list of major and minor life events. For additional life changes see my video blog: What is Causing my Disorganization? Life changes contribute greatly to disorganization and the need to reevaluate current systems. In the same way, ADD symptoms can change due to changing life needs. Examples given include :
- Going back to school
- Gaining responsibility at work
- Having children
Adults with ADD may find they need help managing their symptoms with the changing life events. Taking medication and/or working with an ADD coach may help folks in these situations. Additionally, working with a Professional Organizer can help people with ADD evaluate their changing needs in the home and create new systems to best accomodate this.
I have been aware of how major and minor life events can cause disorganization, but never considered how life transitions can cause an increase in ADD symptoms. If you have been diagnosed with ADD, consider how changes in your life have effected your ADD.
