Stacy welcomes licensed clinical psychologist and author Dr. David Sitt to share his story of being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, why emotional management can be just as important as managing daily tasks, and a newer phenomenon of distraction that he calls “techno-ADD”. Dr. Sitt also shares practical and empowering tips that have helped him and his clients bring clarity to the chaos.
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Key Takeaways of ADHD Refocused
Introductions
- Dr. Sitt is a licensed clinical psychologist in New York City, residing in Brooklyn with his wife and 4 children!
- He is a tenured professor at Baruch College (CUNY), teaching both undergraduate and graduate students.
- With his own experience being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, Dr. Sitt now specializes in treating adults with ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders, employing validated modalities and innovative techniques.
- He is the author of his recently released book, ADHD Refocused: Bringing Clarity to the Chaos.
ADHD Refocused
- Stacy shares about her own experience of living in a neurodiverse household.
- Dr. Sitt explains some of the history of the diagnoses and also talks through some of the differences or experiences of someone diagnosed with ADHD as an adult vs. as a youth. If you’ve never been diagnosed it may feel like a novelty, which may be a different experience from someone who has had years of that frustration.
- Stacy shares that one of the biggest misconceptions she finds is that ADHD is just about attention and focus, but , in fact, there are so many pieces of this. Dr. Sitt says that emotional management, like for rejection sensitivity, is paramount. And many clinicians do not factor it in because it’s not mentioned in the DSM. They won’t even ask you about it. They may not even treat you for that element of the ADHD experience.
- Dr. Sitt uses an “ABC” approach (Aware, Bring it Back, Care) for helping with the emotional side of ADHD.
- Stacy notes that the physical and chemical differences in ADHD brains is so important. Dr. Sitt describes the “underground fibers” of neurons in our brains and nervous system in a neurotypical vs. ADHD body. Dopamine has received a large amount of attention in recent years within the ADHD brain.
- Stacy says that the “not now” or “I’ll do it later” approach to those with ADHD can be really frustrating for partners. So Dr. Sitt discusses the inner workings of this process, including a craving for optimal stimulation and a drive to perfectionism.
- He also talks through his theories on “techno-ADD”, and how the distractions and addiction of technology are causing similar presentation of lack of focus in those without a diagnosis.
Next Steps if you have ADHD
- Dr. Sitt says that in addition to medication, other tools, like yoga and meditation can be helpful in the day-to-day.Also, the most impactful tool or teaching he can recommend is to work on your daily task list. He recommends his 3-tier management system that you can find here.
- He says it’s okay that 80% is the new 100%, and shifting your expectation of what it means to be successful. Self compassion and love is the oil that keeps the system moving.
- But there is plasticity in the brain! You live with ADHD and in relationship, there is no lightswitch. It’s more like a dial and focusing on the probabilities of success.
Studies, References & Products
- ADHD Refocused: Bringing Clarity to the Chaos by David Sitt, PsyD
- The Whole View, Season 3, Ep 82: What, Who, and Why Ketamine is Used Medically w/ Dr. Johnathan Edwards
- The Whole View, Episode 481: Attention Deficit Disorders & ADHD in Relationships
- Agave Health
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- TryNom.com/wholeview | Get a two-week trial for 50% off!
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Note: Stacy and her guests are not medical professionals. This podcast is for general educational purposes and NOT intended to diagnose, advise, or treat any physical or mental illness. We always recommend you consult a licensed service provider.
