Published In

ADHD
Aayushi Kapoor August 18th, 2020 · 4min read

How ADHD Affects Relationship and How to make it work

We cannot deny the fact that symptoms of ADHD can have a major impact on relationships. Be it marriage or a newfound romantic relationship, symptoms of ADHD can become really frustrating or irritating for both sides. No wonder maybe this is the reason for more divorces and breakups specifically for people with ADHD. But, if you two are really willing to work out together, the marriage or commitment can be changed into reality and a successful relationship.

To make your relationship happy and successful, first, we need to understand how ADHD actually affects relationships and after that, we will work on how we can make it work. This blog contains: how ADHD affects relationships and how to make it work.

How ADHD affects a Relationship:

1. Distraction

Distraction is known to be a major symptom of ADHD in adults. If you or your ADHD partner does not look interested when you talk or when you expect them to fulfill all the promises, you or your partner might feel ignored, unwanted, and unheard. In reality, you or your ADHD partner may love you but the symptom might create problems in your relationship or marriage.

Strategies to Reduce Distraction

Communication is the only key, therefore, tell your partner about your feelings. If you won’t speak and keep the feelings inside it may turn into anger and resentment. Therefore, try to have a face-to-face talk with your partner and try to dissolve the distractions. In this way, you can have a productive conversation with your partner. Try to keep the conversation question ended to stop the wandering mind.

2.Hyperfocus

Hyperfocus may feel less important. Hyperfocus means time to invest in any activity for an extended time. People with ADHD may become engrossing as they tend to block everyone around them. Meanwhile, Hyperfocus can serve as a gift specifically for more productivity.

Strategies to Handle Hyperfocus

In case, you or your partner are more prone to Hyperfocus to related activities such as puzzles or online games… avoiding doing such activities while you are with your partner. Instead, try to engage more with your partner. Track the time or set alarms while you think you are hyper focusing more so that you can spend your day more productively.

3.Forgetfulness

Your procrastination level might reach a point that your partner may not be able to forgive you such as getting late for the movies or dinner date. From such instances, your partner may start feeling that they cannot even trust you with tasks. Anger and resentment can replace love and trust from both sides.

Strategies to remove Forgetfulness

Understand that this behavior is not your flaw so try to reduce anger and resentment. Moreover, try to remove the tag of uncaring and rude, try to plan dates or simply just help your partner with chores. Or, you can also try day planners and reminders.

4.Disorganization

You or your partner may skip some chores or daily jobs sometimes. Or maybe they misplace some important papers or car keys which can cause stress and anxiety on both sides. Continuous disorganization can create problems between both.

Strategies for controlling Disorganization  

As I mentioned earlier, communication is the only key, therefore, try to talk it out. Make sure when you try to talk with your partner, discuss fixes, not the problems.  Recognize your partner’s strengths and use them accordingly to avoid the cold war. Respect the needs and problems so that they can convert this behavior into a happy relationship.

5. Impulsivity

Impulsivity is the major symptom of ADHD specifically in adults. Impulsive is so strong that people with ADHD do not think before speaking or acting. Impulsivity can come in any form like from blurring inappropriate comments to blowing of money on inappropriate stuff.

Strategies for controlling impulsivity

To control impulsivity, self-control should be adapted. You can also help your partner and teach them how to control their impulses while shopping or during social interactions. Teach your partner to cut out unnecessary temptations.

Note: If all these tips and strategies do not work out for you, Calm Sage strongly recommend to see a therapist or counselor.

I hope this blog helps you to make your relationship happy and successful with ADHD. Comment down and share your experience with us. For more such informational content, follow Calm Sage on all social media platforms.

Thanks for reading!

More Interesting Articles:

Effective Parenting Tips for a Child with ADHD

Self-Help Strategies for ADHD in Adults

7 Keys To Building Stronger and Better Relationships in Your Life

Leave a comment