Managing Mental Load for Individuals with ADHD

00:00 Introduction

Managing the mental load is especially challenging for individuals with ADHD. The mental load refers to the cognitive and emotional effort required to manage daily tasks, which can be overwhelming, especially for new parents. This video features Laura Key, host of the ADHD Aha! podcast, who shares insights on the complexities of mental load and its impact on those with ADHD.

01:41 Guest Introduction: Laura Key from ADHD Aha!

Laura Key introduces herself and highlights her experience living with ADHD as a mother. She emphasizes the importance of understanding ADHD and the mental load, which often leads to exhaustion and emotional stress.

02:50 What We Mean When We Say Mental Load

The term "mental load" encompasses the cognitive work involved in organizing everyday tasks. It often falls heavily on women, who typically juggle not only their own responsibilities but also manage the schedules and needs of others in the household.

04:20 Impact of Mental Load on ADHD

A heavy mental load can severely affect performance, particularly for those with ADHD, who already struggle with executive function and working memory. This can lead to frustration and emotional dysregulation.

07:21 What is Emotional Dysregulation?

Emotional dysregulation is a common issue for individuals with ADHD, leading to intense emotional responses and difficulty managing feelings. This often results in outbursts of frustration and feelings of inadequacy.

17:27 Strategies To Lighten the Mental Load

Key strategies to lighten the mental load include:

• Offer Choices: Simplifying decision-making by providing options.
• Externalize As Much As Possible: Writing down tasks to free up mental space.
• Create Visual Cues: Using reminders like sticky notes to aid memory.
• Have Less Stuff To Manage: Reducing responsibilities to lower mental strain.
• Set Reminders: Utilizing technology for future tasks.
• Delegate Entire Areas of Responsibility: Sharing the mental load among family members.

27:42 Strategies To Manage the Emotional Dysregulation

Managing emotional dysregulation involves self-kindness, prioritizing sleep, and gaining perspective on challenging situations. It’s crucial to adjust expectations to avoid overwhelming oneself.