This is a collaborative post.
You may find that some aspects of life seem more difficult than they ever used to. While we have all found ourselves staring blankly at the screen, forgetting why we opened a new tab or zoning out in the middle of a conversation, that question of “Do I have ADHD?” is something everybody’s asking these days. It can be very easy to start wondering, is this just how everybody is now, or is this something more going on?
What to Remember About ADHD
ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), at its core, is a real developmental disorder. It’s more than just about being forgetful or easily distracted every now and again. People with ADHD have symptoms that are persistent and started in childhood, and it also makes life genuinely tough, whether it’s at work, school, or in relationships. You may have seen opportunities for an adult ADHD assessment online, and this is something that is worth embracing wholeheartedly if you suspect you might have ADHD. But it’s also important to remember that there is more to ADHD than just the occasional “what was I saying?”
The Modern World and Why It Aids Distraction
Unfortunately, the world we live in today is basically a giant distraction machine. Our emails don’t stop, our phones buzz every few minutes, and there’s always something short-form demanding our attention. Therefore we have to remember that even if we don’t have ADHD, it’s almost impossible not to feel like we do have scatterbrains.
Studies have shown that the average attention span has shrunk over the last couple of decades because we are bombarded by information and our brains are struggling to keep up, and as a result, everybody feels like they have those symptoms of ADHD.
Are We Held Hostage by Modern Life?
The fact is that the modern world is designed in its own way to hijack our attention, because tech companies employ experts to make their apps as addictive as possible. The struggles of trying to make ends meet can make us all feel frazzled, but this is why you need to put in boundaries if you are worried. Sometimes it is about making sure that you think of the following:
- Give your brain a break by stepping away from screens when you can, which of course, is easier said than done, but this is where taking a walk in nature could make a big difference.
- Be aware that decision fatigue is a real thing, so make lists and jot down tasks so you don’t have to remember everything.
- Turn off unnecessary notifications on your phone.
- Rest! Don’t just sleep better; prioritise actual downtime. If you find yourself getting bored after about 20 seconds of doing nothing, this is actually good because your brain is getting some downtime!
“Do I Have ADHD?”
We’re all living in a world that is vying for our attention, but that doesn’t mean everybody necessarily has ADHD. It does mean that we could all use a little less screen time and a bit more kindness. If you are struggling, reaching out for help or looking into an ADHD assessment is something you shouldn’t be afraid to do. And remember, it’s not just you! The modern world is tough, and it’s tougher than ever when it comes to spinning all those plates. You’re doing better than you think!
