EP. 10: Finding Calm in Chaos | How to Regulate Your ADHD Brain During Life's Hardest Moments | ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your free ADHD Reset Guide here - adhdwithjennafree.com/adhdguide Chapters 00:05 Navigating Life's Challenges with ADHD 04:56 Understanding Dysregulation and Its Justifications 06:09 The Human Experience of Grief and Regulation 07:16 The Role of Regulation During Hard Times 13:31 Fighting Reality: Acceptance and Moving Forward Summary In this episode of the ADHD with Jenna Free podcast, I dive into the complexities of regulating emotions during significant life events (think job loss, illness of a family member etc - but this can also be related to smaller but still impactful things like a stressful season at work, having a baby). I provides insights on how to navigate through hard times while maintaining a sense of regulation and clarity. I am sharing 5 things to consider when trying to regulate through more than the everyday stress of life. Takeaways Regulating through big life events is crucial for mental health. Dysregulation can feel justified during tough times, but it's important to recognize it. Grief is a natural human experience that cannot be bypassed through regulation. Regulation helps in observing and managing survival mode during crises. Acceptance of reality is key to moving forward after a setback. Connect with Jenna Instagram TikTok
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21:00
EP. 9: Beyond the Quick Fix | The Truth About ADHD, Dopamine & Lasting Happiness | ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - adhdwithjennafree.com/adhdguide Chapters 00:00 Understanding Dopamine and ADHD 03:45 The Impact of Quick Dopamine Hits 10:16 The Pursuit of Pleasure vs. Meaning 15:36 Healthy Ways to Boost Dopamine 19:52 Finding Fulfillment Beyond Quick Fixes 26:49 Regulation and Long-Term Happiness Summary In this episode of the ADHD with Jenna Free podcast, we explore the relationship between dopamine and ADHD, discussing how dopamine affects mood, motivation, and behavior. I dive into the importance of understanding dopamine's role in ADHD and the potential pitfalls of seeking quick dopamine hits through activities like scrolling and substance use. We are challenging this stereotype by discussing the pursuit of pleasure (hedonia) with the pursuit of meaning and fulfillment (eudaemonia), advocating for healthier ways to boost dopamine through engaging activities that promote long-term happiness and growth. I am sharing the need for regulation and awareness in managing dopamine levels and finding true fulfillment in life. Takeaways Dopamine is crucial for mood, motivation, and attention. People with ADHD may produce less dopamine than those without. ADHD medications often work by increasing dopamine levels. Quick dopamine hits can lead to a crash and feeling worse. The brain seeks balance and homeostasis after dopamine spikes. Survival mode leads to short-sighted decision-making. Healthy dopamine boosts come from activities like exercise and connection. Finding fulfillment requires growth and long-term goals. Regulation is key to managing dopamine and achieving happiness. Connect with Jenna Instagram TikTok
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26:47
EP. 8: Bandaids vs. Breakthroughs | The Critical Difference in ADHD Management That Changes Everything | ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your new and improved free ADHD Reset Guide here - adhdwithjennafree.com/adhdguide Chapters 00:06 Understanding ADHD Approaches 04:56 The Band-Aid Approach vs. Transformation 14:19 Information Overload and Implementation 23:05 The Three Types of Regulation Summary In this episode, I discuss two primary approaches to managing ADHD: the band-aid approach, which focuses on quick fixes, and the transformational approach, which emphasizes internal work and awareness. I highlight the importance of understanding dysregulation and its impact on the effectiveness of ADHD management tools (yes even using calendars can get better with regulation). Takeaways The band-aid approach offers quick fixes but lacks long-term effectiveness. Transformation requires internal work and awareness, not just external tools. Dysregulation can hinder the effectiveness of ADHD management tools. Information hoarding can lead to inaction and frustration. Effective ADHD management combines both external tools and internal transformation. Understanding the three types of regulation is crucial for managing ADHD. Nervous system regulation alone is not enough for lasting change. Transformation takes time and patience, not instant solutions. Connect with Jenna Instagram TikTok
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29:49
EP. 7: Smartphones & ADHD: A Complicated Relationship | How Your Device Is Changing Your Brain | ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - adhdwithjennafree.com/adhdguide Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Smartphone Addiction and ADHD 04:29 Understanding the "Alternative Effect" 09:43 Radical Approaches to Technology Separation 15:00 Exploring Practical Solutions for Phone Use 20:35 Flexible Strategies for Managing Phone Addiction 30:59 Mindset of Curiosity and Reflection Summary In this episode of the ADHD with Jenna Free podcast, I discuss the relationship between smartphones and ADHD, exploring the addictive nature of technology and its impact on attention and regulation. I introduce the concept of the 'alternative effect' and share both radical and practical strategies for managing phone use, emphasizing the importance of separating technology and fostering a mindset of curiosity towards our habits. All I'm suggesting is to reflect on your phone usage and consider ways to create healthier boundaries with technology. Takeaways Smartphones are designed to be addictive, especially for ADHD brains. The 'alternative effect' shows how options can lower our motivation. Separating technology can help reduce phone addiction. Using a dumb phone or MP3 player can create distance from distractions. Apps like ClearSpace can help limit social media use effectively. Flexible strategies can help manage phone addiction without drastic changes. Mindfulness and curiosity are key in addressing phone habits. Creating a personal entertainment ladder can help retrain attention spans. Reflection on phone use can lead to healthier habits over time. Connect with Jenna Instagram TikTok
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32:40
EP. 6: Perfectionism: The Hidden Defense Mechanism & Why Your ADHD Brain Craves Impossible Standards | ADHD with Jenna Free
You can get your free ADHD Regulation Guide here - adhdwithjennafree.com/adhdguide Chapters 00:00 Understanding Perfectionism and ADHD 02:52 The Fight or Flight Response and Its Impact 06:05 Perfectionism as a Defense Mechanism 12:02 Challenging Perfectionism and Embracing Imperfection 18:01 Practical Strategies for Overcoming Perfectionism 23:56 Finding Balance and Freedom from Perfectionism Summary In this episode we are exploring the complex relationship between perfectionism and ADHD. We talk about how perfectionism stems from a fight or flight response, acting as a defense mechanism against fear of failure and criticism. I emphasize the importance of recognizing perfectionism as a barrier to productivity and self-acceptance, encouraging you to challenge your perfectionistic tendencies and embrace imperfection (reality). I share practical strategies for overcoming perfectionism and highlight the need for awareness and balance in daily life. Takeaways Perfectionism is often a defense mechanism. The fight or flight response can exacerbate perfectionism. Perfectionism can lead to feelings of disappointment and frustration. Self-criticism and low self-esteem fuel perfectionism. Awareness of perfectionism is the first step to overcoming it. Challenging perfectionistic thoughts can lead to greater freedom. It's important to recognize that perfect doesn't exist. Finding balance in life is crucial for regulation. Embracing imperfection can lead to increased productivity and satisfaction. Connect with Jenna Instagram TikTok
When you're tired of trying the latest ADHD tips and tricks it's time to do some deeper work.
This is what we do here.
No more rushing to get everything over with so you can go lay down.
We are here to regulate and start truly living (and enjoying) your life.
Through ADHD Regulation work we will change the way you experience life with ADHD (think more fun and less dread).
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