Task Initiation, Avoidance, & ADHD
There's nothing like an imminent deadline to help ADHDers get things done. What creates this behavior? If you think I'm referring to "procrastination", keep reading (hint: it's not procrastination).
There is a lot of new research being published that indicates our brains are structured differently, most notably in the pre-frontal cortex (PFC). In very simple terms, our PFCs are different than those who are neurotypical, meaning our executive functions don't work in the same way, e.g. planning, working memory, the passing of time, and self-motivation.
ADHDers have interest-based nervous systems because we don't receive the same chemical rewards as people considered neurotypical (NT). When NTs think about, plan, and execute tasks, activities, or projects—even if these are tasks they don't have interest in—they receive dopamine and serotonin rewards in each stage of planning and execution. WE DON'T, so we have to develop workarounds to get things done.
The adrenaline and cortisol generated from the excitement and stress is a way our brains move us past avoidance, but over time, this is really hard on our overall health, especially for the adrenal glands and nervous system.
Demand Avoidance. In simplest terms, this is a conditioned response related to a desire for control over one’s time, and greater autonomy. It can also be a natural response to what some refer to as neurodivergent trauma. In my opinion, it encompasses things like Revenge Bedtime Procrastination as well. Here’s a wonderful educational piece by Janae Elisabeth, aka Trauma Geek, to learn more.
Neuroscience to the Rescue. Calling avoidant behavior "procrastination" is not accurate and not helpful. ADHDers put off tasks not because of laziness, but because there is something of great discomfort about the thing they're avoiding. Messages from the survival region of the brain tell us we're not capable or will fall short in some way, inducing crippling shame and guilt, and making it feel impossible to make progress. Mental fitness education and training are key to developing the self-awareness and mindfulness tools that help overcome avoidant behavior.
In addition to being a certified ADHD life coach, I'm also a certified mental fitness coach. Please reach out here for more information, I'd love to help!