One of the most problematic ADHD behaviors is anger, with over half of all individuals with the disorder exhibiting hostile, aggressive, and/or negative behaviors. But are these ADHD behaviors a product of brain chemical imbalances or a byproduct of secondary symptoms such as worry, boredom, loss of motivation, frustration, low self esteem, anxiety, lack of sleep, or a general feel of hopelessness. The answer is actually a little bit of both in most cases. In the world of brain chemicals and ADHD behaviors there are two, and possibly three, players in the game, they are norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. When too much norepinephrine exists a person will be appear agitated and angry paying attention to only things that are perceived as threats or targets of opportunity. Now that we know a little more about anger and ADHD why don't we move on to ways to better manage it.
ADHD behaviors Overcoming anger
While overcoming any of the ADHD behaviors including anger is never easy, it can be done. Realize that by implementing the proper steps you don't have to be held hostage to your anger and the consequences that go hand in hand with it.
*Make a list: Lists are very important for individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Make of list of scenarios, situations, and people that set you off. Next, practice responding to these triggers by counting to ten, taking deep breaths, or picturing yourself actually handling the situation calmly. As you do this exercise a smile might come to your face as you start to better evaluate and process these situations.
*Take a longer term view: Consider the longer term consequences of blowing your top. Will you be suspended from school, will you lose a good friend forever, or will you lose the job you love over something ridiculous. As you are considering these things take a few deep breath and then evaluate what will happen if you respond calmly.
*Set a time limit: Letting anger persist is not only emotionally draining but bad for your health. A good way to embrace anger without being consumed by it is to allow yourself permission to be angry for a set amount of time, say 10 minutes, and then put it out of your mind and move on to something else.
*Distract your attention: Keep a picture of your favorite pet, your children, your family, or your favorite sports figure either on your desk or in a handy place so that when a fellow student or co-worker incorrectly blames you for a mistake you can put things into a clearer perspective reminding yourself what they think really isn't all that important in the overall scheme of things.
*Use your creativity in formulating a plan: Those with ADHD generally have fabulous creativity and can think outside the box very effectively. Use this skill to formulate a plan for dealing with anger.
*Talk it out: ADHD women showing ADHD behaviors such as anger and hostility may need many more spoken words daily to be happy. Additionally, finding a close friend and venting may be all it takes to make you feel better.
*When all else fails exercise: It your pot is about to reach the boiling point walk around the block, do a few jumping jacks, or take the long way to get to your next class, climbing a few stairs along the way.
In summary, listed above are just a few of the ideas for dealing with ADHD behaviors such as anger and hostility, there are many others. Additionally, many individuals struggling with anger driven attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have found natural remedies for ADHD to be a valuable treatment tool, especially when combined with behavioral therapies such CBT or talk therapy.
