ADHD & Marriage News - September 30, 2024
Quote of the Week
“People 45 and older who have elevated stress levels have been found to be 37 percent more likely to have cognitive problems, including memory and thinking issues, than those who are not stressed, according to research published in the Journal JAMA Network Open…chronic stress can (also) lead to various physical and mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, headaches, heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep problems…cognitive decline was greater among the most stressed participants, regardless of age, race or sex.”
- Washington Post, 4-10-23
Stress
There are two main reasons to focus on improving your relationship, in my opinion. The first is that a healthy relationship is wonderful to be in while a dysfunctional one is painful.
The second reason is that the stress of being in a dysfunctional relationship can literally take years off your life, add mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, and result in serious cognitive decline.
In my mind, this latter is good reason to set a regular set of dates upon which you will assess whether or not your relationship is working for you and, if not, what your course of action might be to change that. Once every six to twelve months, for example. Ask yourself: Do I feel constantly on edge (sometimes described as ‘walking on eggshells’)? Am I being newly treated for depression or anxiety related to my relationship? Am I having trouble keeping things straight in a way that doesn’t reflect my age?
If the answer to some or all of those questions is yes, then it’s time to modify your course. Consider consulting with a professional, improving your boundaries, making sure you are contributing your best and where you are in the changes you wish to make as a couple. If your partner is also committed to improvement there are many improvements that typically can be made. If not, then change is less likely.
Stress doesn’t just come from our relationships, of course. It can also come from our jobs, financial situations, and much more. But it is important to understand that keeping the status quo in a long-term in a relationship that you experience as chronically stressful isn’t a neutral act for you. It has very real health implications.
Resources For Those in Relationships Impacted by ADHD
SEMINARS, GROUPS:
ADHD Effect In-Depth Couples' Seminar - Is your relationship in trouble? My premier, highly acclaimed 9-session zoom seminar has helped many couples thrive in healthier, happier relationships. (The next live seminar starts January 2025). The Self-Study Seminar is available anytime. Move at your own pace. Includes materials/recordings from the recent '24 live seminar
Non ADHD Partner Support Group and ADHD New Habit Coaching Group - Be part of a community exploring similar issues, successes and struggles and find new, effective ways to be your best self in your relationship.
ADHD & Marriage Consulting group - Consider this group if you're interested in doing individual or couples work with someone who is an ADHD expert. This is a group of professionals who understand the issues faced by individuals and couples impacted by ADHD. (REGISTRATION IS OPEN). We STRONGLY recommend you also take the seminar
FREE RESOURCES:
How to Optimize Treatment for Adult ADHD;
Downloadable chapters of my books;
A community forum with other couples facing similar issues;
A large number of blog posts on various topics;
Social Media: - follow us for tips and resources
ADULT ADHD CAN HAVE A HUGE IMPACT ON YOUR RELATIONSHIP. ADHDmarriage.com can literally change your life!
Question? Contact Melissa.
© 2024 Melissa Orlov
