Thread by @dustyexner

Emotional dysregulation is something you really need to watch out for when you have #ADHD. It's interesting to stand outside of an emotionally volatile event and watch your own reactions. I can actually *feel* my nervous system pumping adrenaline. I know I don't have to react.

When something dramatic, upsetting or angering happens and I DONT react, it's like someone is shining a big bright lightbulb in my face. I put down things and immediately forget where I put them. I forget where I'm going and what I'm doing in the middle of doing it.

The physiological reaction to drama is so distracting to my brain that I'm liable to make dumb mistakes so remembering to take it slow and lower my expectations of myself for the next few hours is key. It's almost like being in shock in a way.

The brains physical response to emotional stimuli is so powerful when you have ADHD. I have great compassion for people with anger issues and who make bad choices because it's VERY HARD not to when you have such an overwhelming nervous system response

What are the healthiest alternatives to reacting to some drama bullshit or other negative emotional stimuli? I doubt I'll get much work done; I'm too wound up. I can't nap, my mind is racing. That energy can be put to good use with cleaning or walking my dog / venting to a friend

A really fun and engaging video game isn't on my work agenda today but it's probably strong enough to distract me, which is the most effective way to break the rumination. If I try to force myself to work right now I run the risk of getting frustrated and freaking out.

I think now is a good time to revisit my little #Stardew Valley farm. Stardew is so engaging but also really peaceful and relaxing and fun for me. Probably if I play that for an hour or so this feeling of tension in my brain and the "bright lightbulb" feeling will go away

Thanks for the coaching session, Dusty!

You're welcome, Dusty!

See y'all shortly I'm off to video game it up right now because that actually IS the best use of my time right now. The time to calm down and come back to planet earth!