Living with adult ADHD has always presented its own set of challenges, but the pandemic has intensified these difficulties in unprecedented ways. As someone who relies on the highest dosage of long-acting methamphetamines approved by the FDA, my day-to-day functioning can still feel like an uphill battle. The combination of ADHD and the unique stressors of a global pandemic has turned even the simplest tasks into monumental obstacles at a time when our adulting skills are needed most.
It’s not just me; this is a shared experience among many. ADHD often coexists with anxiety, particularly in women, creating a feedback loop where one condition exacerbates the other. Caffeine has become a lifeline for me, helping to keep my mind somewhat organized, although it often leads to dehydration as I neglect to drink enough water. I frequently lose track of time, forgetting not just the day but also the week.
A Case in Point
As I sit here drafting this article at 3 AM—well past the deadline—I am reminded of how chaotic life has become. Sleep eludes me, a common issue among those with ADHD. The uncertainty and anxiety surrounding the pandemic only heighten this struggle. I often find myself awake in the early hours, racing thoughts keeping me company. As I write, I’m also grappling with the fact that I’ve completely lost track of what day it is; in a world devoid of typical cues, time becomes an abstract concept.
Compounding this is my tendency to forget important deadlines. In a panic, I checked my work schedule amidst a flurry of distractions, proving that multitasking—something those of us with ADHD often excel at—has become even more overwhelming in this context.
Hobbies Turned Obsessions
Writing is my passion, but during the pandemic, it has transformed into an all-consuming obsession. This phenomenon, known as hyperfocus, can be both a blessing and a curse. In times of social isolation, it seems even more pronounced, perhaps as a means of escaping our new reality. My husband, who also grapples with ADHD, is channeling his energy into woodworking projects, building everything from tables to elaborate sterilization boxes made from various materials we had lying around.
Our children, who also share the same ADHD diagnosis, are deeply engrossed in classic video games. Their gaming sessions have taken on a life of their own, with my middle child even incentivizing my oldest to play by offering him money. The dynamics of ADHD during a pandemic can certainly lead to unexpected behaviors.
The Caffeine Connection
My relationship with caffeine has become nearly obsessive. It’s either my sole companion in the morning or the source of my frustration. I consume a considerable amount of coffee to kickstart my day, and without afternoon energy drinks, I hit a wall. Unfortunately, I often neglect to hydrate properly, resorting to sugary drinks instead. The chaos of daily life means that I frequently forget to drink anything at all.
Misplacing Essentials
It may sound trivial, but misplacing everyday items like keys or wallets can feel monumental. In the absence of outings, I lose track of items crucial for leaving the house. I often find myself searching for my vape pens or even pens that my children have mysteriously commandeered.
Distractions Galore
The pandemic has transformed distractions into an art form. I can easily lose hours engaging with friends over video calls or spiraling down internet rabbit holes. The allure of creating a T-shirt with quirky slogans on platforms like Canva can quickly sidetrack me, leading to a deep dive into creative projects instead of focusing on pressing tasks.
In essence, living with ADHD during a pandemic is like amplifying the usual chaos to a new level. Household chores take a backseat to more engaging activities, leaving our living space in a constant state of disarray.
In summary, adult ADHD has become increasingly difficult to manage during the pandemic. The intertwining of anxiety, distractions, and the struggle to maintain focus has made everyday tasks feel insurmountable. As we continue to navigate this challenging landscape, it’s essential to seek out resources that can provide support and guidance, such as those found at this excellent resource.
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