Avoidance: A different take on ADHD Struggles with Follow Through

In this episode of the ADHD Support Talk Radio podcast, co-host Lynne Edris takes a unique perspective on common struggles experienced by adults with ADHD, namely poor follow-through, procrastination, and avoidance. Lynne challenges the conventional view of procrastination as laziness or a character flaw and instead explores it as a behavioral habit born of a coping mechanism that has gone awry. This episode originally aired in April of 2021.

Lynne delves into the underlying reasons behind procrastination and avoidance, helping listeners understand the root causes of these behaviors. She emphasizes that individuals with ADHD often struggle with executive functioning, which can make it challenging to initiate tasks, sustain focus, and manage time effectively. Procrastination and avoidance, therefore, become maladaptive coping mechanisms that provide temporary relief from the anxiety and overwhelm associated with tasks.

By reframing procrastination as a coping mechanism, Lynne helps listeners gain insight into their own patterns of avoidance and understand the emotional and cognitive factors that contribute to their struggles. This shift in perspective helps individuals move away from self-blame and judgment and towards a more compassionate and proactive approach to addressing their challenges.

Throughout the episode, Lynne provides practical strategies that listeners can implement to overcome procrastination and improve follow-through. These strategies are tailored to the specific needs of individuals with ADHD and take into account the unique aspects of their cognitive functioning. By addressing the underlying causes of procrastination, such as fear of failure, overwhelm, or difficulty with task initiation, listeners can develop effective tools and techniques to enhance their productivity and consistency.





ADHD Support Talk Radio is an award winning Podcast for Adults with ADD / ADHD. Co-hosts Tara McGillicuddy and Lynne Edris are joined by Adult ADHD experts and they cover important topics related to Adult ADD / ADHD. Podcast guests include Dr. Edward Hallowell, Dr. Stephanie Sarkis, Dr. Ari Tuckman, Laurie Dupar, Terry Matlen and many more.

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[antoinettehowes]

Fantastic insight and advice thank you ❤

[Heyuher]

I feel like procrastination is just putting something off because you can/ feel like you can get away with it. Conversely, avoidance seems to be tied to the emotions & the body -- whether it's due to anxiety, perfectionism, self-efficacy beliefs, etc. I've been able to pinpoint all my lateness within the past year as "avoidance" versus "procrastination" after going through in-person therapy.

[LynneEdris]

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