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Escape ADHD Defense Mechanisms

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Living with ADHD we learn to deal with emotional and psychological hurdles, and also about the struggles with focus and hyperactivity. Sometimes we develop defense mechanisms to navigate the frustrations and challenges we already endure living with ADHD.

Dismantling defense mechanisms is crucial to your mental well being.   Below are some examples of the defense mechanisms you may be experiencing, as well as strategies to break down these barriers.  

DEFENSE MECHANISMS YOU MAY EXPERIENCE

Denial

Insisting that your challenges are no different than other people's or attributing your difficulties solely to external factors. 

You can break down denial by practicing self awareness and educating yourself about ADHD.  

Rationalization

You may find yourself creating plausible explanations for your behaviors or failures that are actually attributed to ADHD.  For example, attributing chronic tardiness to external circumstances rather than acknowledging your struggles with time management.  

Projection

You may project your short comings or feelings onto others, accusing them of being forgetful or disorganized, not recognizing these traits in yourself. 

Avoidance

Avoiding challenging tasks or situations is a common defense mechanism if you have ADHD.  This can look like procrastination or giving up on something way too soon. 

STRATEGIES FOR DISMANTLING DEFENSE REACTIONS

1.  Medication Management

2.  Therapy 

3. Peer Support

4.  Self Care

Defensive mechanisms are our natural responses to the struggles you face with ADHD. If you are struggling with ADHD, please know assistance is available, mental wealth is achievable .