There are many positive qualities that attract people to those with ADD/ADHD. These include being spontaneous, creative and energetic to name a few. Unfortunately those same traits can make maintaining satisfying relationships a challenge. Below are some strategies to help deal with some of the core symptoms of ADD/ADHD. If your partner or yourself is suffering from ADHD use these tips to keep your life and relationships happy and healthy.
1. Get an accurate diagnosis. There are a series of tests that your doctor can conduct to determine if a patient has ADD/ADHD or not. One test that has become a very beneficial and important part of the ADHD testing process in my practice is called the Quotient® ADHD System. The Quotient Test gives my patients objective measurements of their levels of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity to help determine if ADD/ADHD is present. After you have gotten a proper diagnosis you can obtain proper treatment, which may include medications. Effective medications can improve the core symptoms below, which in turn improve relationships.
2. Distractibility/Inattention – For a person who has ADD/ADHD often conversations are cut short or left unfinished leaving the other person feeling what they said was not important. Maintaining good eye contact and repeating back what was said can help you stay focused and foster better communication with your partner.
3. Impulsivity – People with ADD/ADHD can often be described as being brutally honest. They tend to say what comes to mind before really thinking it through. This can be the most damaging problem with ADD/ADHD in relationships. Being aware of your tendency to blurt things out and then repeating to yourself phrases like “don’t say something I will regret” will give you more time to think before acting.
4. Hyperactivity/Restlessness – Excessive fidgeting such as tapping objects or crossing then uncrossing legs can come across to others that you are not listening or paying attention. All of these movements can also distract others and make it more difficult for them to pay attention to you. Regular exercise and planning frequent breaks into your schedule where you can get up and move around can help decrease this hyperactivity or restlessness.
Following the strategies listed above to address some of the core symptoms of ADD/ADHD can help people with ADD/ADHD experience more satisfying relationships.
Dr. Thomas Moseley
Atlantic Psychiatric Centers
1351 Bedford Drive
Melbourne, FL 32940
Thomas H. Moseley M.D. is a member of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry who specializes in the treatment of ADD/ADHD. Dr. Moseley is founder and Medical Director of Attention Plus located at Atlantic Psychiatric & Counseling Center in Melbourne, Florida. Attention Plus is a regional ADD/ADHD Assessment and Treatment Center for children and adults serving Central Florida. For information call (321) 821-0655 or visit www.attentionplus.net.
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