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“I have a controversial take: I think a lot of what we call ADHD symptoms are actually dysregulation symptoms.”
Intro
ADHD nervous system regulation may be the missing piece behind ADHD paralysis, overwhelm, and executive dysfunction. What if many ADHD symptoms aren’t just ADHD—but signs of a nervous system stuck in fight or flight?
In this episode, I sit down with therapist and ADHD expert Jenna Free to explore a different way of understanding adult ADHD. We discuss why ADHD nervous system regulation can be more effective than relying on productivity hacks alone, how chronic fight-or-flight impacts executive functioning, and why slowing down—not pushing harder—may actually help you get more done.
Highlights:
- ADHD paralysis and task initiation
- Why ADHD feels like fight or flight
- Executive dysfunction and overwhelm
- The connection between ADHD symptoms and nervous system dysregulation
- Why “going analog” can help reduce stress and improve focus
- ADHD in women and why so many receive a diagnosis later in life
Connect with Jenna Free
Jenna Free is a counselor (CCC) for ADHD with ADHD. She specializes in working with the ADHD brain to get it out of fight-or-flight and into working its best, while honoring neurodivergence and all of our uniqueness. She has a focus on making ADHDers lives more enjoyable while also being more productive. She works with clients through her program ADHD Regulation Groups and teaches other mental health professionals theADHD Regulation Method in her Certification program. Jenna lives in Calgary, Alberta,with her husband and two sons. When she isn’t working with ADHDers, you can find her exploring some random new hobby—right now these include acting, tennis, and yoga.
Find Jenna on the web at:
https://www.adhdwithjennafree.com
Resources to Support Your Journey
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THE BOOK LIBRARY:
- The Father Wound (New!): Heal your past and reclaim your future with my latest guide. https://fatherwoundbook.com
- Too Much: A Guide to High-Functioning Codependency. Break the cycle of over-functioning and find your balance. https://hfcbook.com
- Boundary Boss: The essential guidebook for authentically expressing your desires and setting healthy limits. https://boundarybossbook.com
TAKE THE BOUNDARY STYLE QUIZ: Awareness is the first step to change. Take the quiz to discover your unique boundary style. https://boundaryquiz.com
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