“Neuroplasticity, the brain’s capacity to grown and change, has been clearly confirmed in human adults. By noticing and making more mindful choices about our thoughts, feelings, and reactions, we can actually change the structure, activity, and connections in our brain. Such changes are associated with increased and more balanced empathy, faster recovery after an argument, and decreased negativity bias.” - Marsha Lucas, Ph.D.

We change our brains as we make specific choices. This is one of the reasons that improving our relationship through making everyday intentional choices about being positive and thoughtful with our actions (what I call an "intentional relationship”) is so useful. According to John Ratey, MD, research shows clearly that exercise helps speed the process of creating stronger and new mental pathways through a process called neuroplasticity. Meditation is another way to change your brain to (eventually) become calmer and inhibit impulsivity.

None of this happens over night. But making time in your schedule for exercise, making mindful choices and meditation have long-term, physiological benefits. Can you create more time for one or more of these activities?

Thanksgiving is a great time to reflect on what you are thankful for. I am grateful to be working with a community of people impacted by ADHD. There are so many seeking ways to love their partner more fully and working to make their lives better...truly it is a privilege.  Thank you!

You can find great resources for couples impacted by ADHD at my marriage and ADHD website, including: a free online treatment overview; free downloadable chapters of my books; a community forum with other couples facing similar issues; a large number of blog posts on various topics; referrals; and my very popular eight-session phone seminar ADHD Effect In-Depth Couples' Seminar.

Delighted to announce that The Couple's Guide to Thriving with ADHD has been named a finalist in the 2014 USA Best Book Awards Psychology and Mental Health category. Available in Audio Book and Kindle, it explores and offers recommendations on what to do about the emotional "Hot Spots" that couples impacted by ADHD commonly face.

Adult ADHD can have a huge impact on your relationship. Please take a moment to investigate the information available to you. It can literally change your life!

Link to ADHD and Marriage website