Preparing for the Storm

If you have ADHD, you have probably also experienced some form of emotional dysregulation or Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD).

You are not alone. This is quite common for those with ADHD, especially if you have been diagnosed with Combined-Type ADHD.

What is Emotional Dysregulation?

Emotional dysregulation is a lowered ability to manage or regulate your emotions, or how you behave or respond in certain situations. These can be positive or negative emotions, often experienced on the extreme end of the spectrum over how others might react in a similar situation.

Emotional dysregulation can be frustrating. It can feel like getting caught in a rainstorm without an umbrella, when the weatherperson had predicted sunny skies.

Now you're wet and miserable. If you had known there was a chance for rain, you could have been better prepared.

Living with emotional dysregulation can feel a little like getting caught in the rain when you weren't prepared.

Luckily, there are things you can do now to help you be better prepared in the future.

Self-Care

You probably hear the phrase self-care all the time. Everyone is always talking about self-care and how important it is. That's because it is that important! When you take care of yourself (physically, mentally, emotionally, etc.), it can positively impact your mood and how you react to things around you.

Practice Mindfulness

The practice of mindfulness allows you to focus on the present and those things that are true around you. Exercises like deep breathing can help calm and regulate your nervous system.

CBT and DBT

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) can be helpful in recognizing and even changing negative thought patterns.

Now it’s Your Turn

I would encourage you to learn more about some of the suggestions and strategies provided above. See what you might be able to add to your emotional storm toolkit, and make sure you’re prepared the next time you get caught in an unexpected downpour.

Thank you for your time and attention,

Nikki