Andrew Huberman just had the world's top ADHD doctor on his podcast.
He revealed mind-blowing facts about ADHD that 99% of people wouldn't know.
Be prepared to have your mind blown...
Here are my top 8 takeaways: 🧵
1/ ADHD isn't just about focus—it affects life expectancy
Having ADHD reduces your life expectancy by around 10 years—the same reduction as diabetes or major depression.
The main causes? Accidents and suicide, both linked to impulsivity.
But that's just the beginning...
2/ ADHD brains are interest-driven, not importance-driven
Non-ADHD brains respond to importance: "I need to do taxes because they're due."
ADHD brains chase interest: "Taxes are boring, but this cat video is fascinating!"
This fundamental difference explains why willpower alone isn't enough.
3/ ADHD requires external structure but the right amount
The ADHD brain struggles to create internal structure.
Too little structure (working from home) = chaos.
Too much structure (assembly line work) = stultifying.
We need the perfect balance.
4/ The Four Pillars of ADHD Management
Dr. Kruse insists these must come BEFORE work/school commitments:
• Regular sleep (timing matters more than duration)
• Consistent meals (many with ADHD forget to eat)
• Movement/exercise
• Relaxation/meditation
5/ Hyperfocus isn't a deficit—it's a form of flow state
Many with ADHD experience periods of intense focus where time disappears.
This "superpower" is actually the same neurological state as "flow"—just with less control when it happens.
But that's not the only time issue...
6/ People with ADHD perceive time differently
Most people track time continuously. Those with ADHD only distinguish between "now" and "not now."
Laboratory tests show they consistently misjudge time intervals.
This explains chronic lateness despite genuine efforts.
7/ ADHD medication facts most doctors don't discuss
• Amphetamine products (Adderall, Vyvanse) are most effective but carry higher risks
• Risk of psychosis is 1 in 500 with amphetamines
• Non-stimulants work just as quickly as stimulants
What's really shocking, though...
8/ "Cyclic Sighing" calms the ADHD brain in just 5 minutes
Dr. Kruse's top tool for ADHD: Double inhale through the nose, long exhale through the mouth, repeat 20-25 times.
Used before bed, it dramatically improves sleep quality and reduces nighttime wakings.
Simple yet powerful.
These insights flip conventional ADHD thinking:
• It's not just an attention deficit
• It affects fundamental life outcomes
• It requires systematic approaches beyond medication
• It may be tied to our body's internal clock
Which insight surprised you most?
The most effective approach combines structure, behavioral strategies, and sometimes medication.
If you or someone you love has ADHD, remember: the goal isn't fixing a broken brain—it's creating systems that work with your unique neurological wiring.
Thanks for reading!
If you want to know more about this topic, follow me here on X & Substack for sharp, no-fluff breakdowns of new tools related to ADHD and inspiring stories:
andrewhopper.substack.com
I hope you've found this thread helpful.
Follow me @andrewhopper for more.
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