ADHD and friends
Sometimes it's extremely hard for friends to understand that:
I'm not loosing focus on purpose when they speak sometimes.
I'm not ignoring them when I don't respond immediately.
I'm not trying to forget things, especially in heated moments.
That I don't communicate or respond well when riled up due to my thoughts feeling like they are swirling at mach biscuit.
They are amazing people. They have amazing hearts. They are even supportive in many things. Just sometimes don't know how to respond to my quirks. I don't blame them. Not asking them to adjust. Just to understand that I'm not like everyone they may know. Even if they have ADHD.
This is my life. How's yours?
Hey @ReturnToCenter909, thank you for sharing. I can really hear how much you've been trying to explain what ADHD feels like from the inside to your friends, and how touch it can be when people don't fully get it. The way you wrote it feels so honest and relatable (losing focus, slow replies, forgetting things, get overwhelmed when emotions run high) none of that is intentional, and it's tough when people think it is. It's clear you care about your friends a lot, and you're just wanting them to see that your brain works a bit differently, not that you're ignoring them or don't value them.
I've definitely felt this with my own friends too. Something that's helped me is sending short videos that explain ADHD in a simple way (honestly *** has been my go-to). It's easier than trying to explain it myself over and over, and sometimes hearing it from someone else helps others realise its not just an excuse, it's literally how our brains operate. I think we get frustrated with ourselves too (myself at least) so having something that bridge that gap can make things feel a bit lighter.
You seem like a great friend, and you clearly value your friendships. If you ever want to have some space to discuss in more detail please do connect with a listener, you are not alone 💜
Sending you virtual hugs!