Breaking the Chains ?? of ADHD Shame ?? : Embracing Empowerment ?? ??

ADHD shame - a feeling I'm all too familiar with. It's a feeling that many of us with ADHD have encountered along our journey, and it's essential to understand, confront, and ultimately overcome ??

But what exactly is ADHD shame?

ADHD shame is a complex emotional state that arises from feelings of inadequacy, guilt, or embarrassment due to the challenges associated with ADHD. It's not a product of the condition itself but rather a response to societal expectations and perceived failures. ?? It is hard to NOT feel shame when you've heard "You're doing it wrong!" your whole life...

How does it come to be, and what may trigger it? ??

ADHD shame can be triggered by various factors, such as:

Social Stigma: Misconceptions and stereotypes about ADHD can lead to self-doubt and shame.

Comparisons: Measuring oneself against neurotypical standards can magnify feelings of inadequacy. (This is big for many of my clients)

Past Experiences: Previous struggles, criticism, or negative feedback can linger in one's self-perception.

So, how can we overcome ADHD shame and embrace empowerment? ??

Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you'd offer a friend facing similar challenges.

Seek Support: Connect with ADHD communities and professionals who can provide guidance and a sense of belonging. (Comment the word "Community" if you'd like me to send you info about how you can join my FREE online ADHD Community.)

Celebrate Your Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Each victory is a step toward self-empowerment.

Advocacy: Share your experiences to combat stigma and promote ADHD awareness.

Remember that ADHD doesn't define us. We are not broken or less than - our brains ?? are just wired a little bit differently ??

#ADHD #Empowerment #SelfAcceptance #ADHDCommunity #ADHDCoach #RyanMayerADHDCoaching #Neurodivergent #Neurodiversity