You can get your free ADHD Reset Guide here - adhdwithjennafree.com/adhdguide

Chapters

00:05 Navigating Life's Challenges with ADHD
04:56 Understanding Dysregulation and Its Justifications
06:09 The Human Experience of Grief and Regulation
07:16 The Role of Regulation During Hard Times
13:31 Fighting Reality: Acceptance and Moving Forward

Summary

In this episode of the ADHD with Jenna Free podcast, I dive into the complexities of regulating emotions during significant life events (think job loss, illness of a family member etc - but this can also be related to smaller but still impactful things like a stressful season at work, having a baby). I provides insights on how to navigate through hard times while maintaining a sense of regulation and clarity. I am sharing 5 things to consider when trying to regulate through more than the everyday stress of life.

Takeaways

• Regulating through big life events is crucial for mental health.
• Dysregulation can feel justified during tough times, but it's important to recognize it.
• Grief is a natural human experience that cannot be bypassed through regulation.
• Regulation helps in observing and managing survival mode during crises.
• Acceptance of reality is key to moving forward after a setback.

Connect with Jenna

• Instagram
• TikTok

You can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - adhdwithjennafree.com/adhdguide

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Dopamine and ADHD
03:45 The Impact of Quick Dopamine Hits
10:16 The Pursuit of Pleasure vs. Meaning
15:36 Healthy Ways to Boost Dopamine
19:52 Finding Fulfillment Beyond Quick Fixes
26:49 Regulation and Long-Term Happiness

Summary

In this episode of the ADHD with Jenna Free podcast, we explore the relationship between dopamine and ADHD, discussing how dopamine affects mood, motivation, and behavior. I dive into the importance of understanding dopamine's role in ADHD and the potential pitfalls of seeking quick dopamine hits through activities like scrolling and substance use. We are challenging this stereotype by discussing the pursuit of pleasure (hedonia) with the pursuit of meaning and fulfillment (eudaemonia), advocating for healthier ways to boost dopamine through engaging activities that promote long-term happiness and growth. I am sharing the need for regulation and awareness in managing dopamine levels and finding true fulfillment in life.

Takeaways

• Dopamine is crucial for mood, motivation, and attention.
• People with ADHD may produce less dopamine than those without.
• ADHD medications often work by increasing dopamine levels.
• Quick dopamine hits can lead to a crash and feeling worse.
• The brain seeks balance and homeostasis after dopamine spikes.
• Survival mode leads to short-sighted decision-making.
• Healthy dopamine boosts come from activities like exercise and connection.
• Finding fulfillment requires growth and long-term goals.
• Regulation is key to managing dopamine and achieving happiness.

Connect with Jenna

• Instagram
• TikTok

You can get your new and improved free ADHD Reset Guide here - adhdwithjennafree.com/adhdguide

Chapters

00:06 Understanding ADHD Approaches
04:56 The Band-Aid Approach vs. Transformation
14:19 Information Overload and Implementation
23:05 The Three Types of Regulation

Summary

In this episode, I discuss two primary approaches to managing ADHD: the band-aid approach, which focuses on quick fixes, and the transformational approach, which emphasizes internal work and awareness. I highlight the importance of understanding dysregulation and its impact on the effectiveness of ADHD management tools (yes even using calendars can get better with regulation).

Takeaways

• The band-aid approach offers quick fixes but lacks long-term effectiveness.
• Transformation requires internal work and awareness, not just external tools.
• Dysregulation can hinder the effectiveness of ADHD management tools.
• Information hoarding can lead to inaction and frustration.
• Effective ADHD management combines both external tools and internal transformation.
• Understanding the three types of regulation is crucial for managing ADHD.
• Nervous system regulation alone is not enough for lasting change.
• Transformation takes time and patience, not instant solutions.

Connect with Jenna

• Instagram
• TikTok