Activities and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
In a world where leisure activities are often seen as a source of relaxation and enjoyment, people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may approach hobbies in a distinct manner.
According to Google, a hobby is an activity done in one's leisure time for pleasure. However, the experience of hobbies for individuals with ADHD can differ significantly. They can still find delight in activities like reading, but their engagement might be more intense and all-consuming.
People with ADHD are known to go through phases of intense interest in a particular hobby, only for it to gradually lose its appeal. This inconsistency in interest is a common trait among those with ADHD.
However, it's essential to note that having an immoderate relationship with hobbies is consistent with having ADHD. Activities that provide reward and stimulation, such as playing basketball, can be beneficial, while activities like gambling may lead to potential trouble.
The author of this article, who has ADHD, categorizes their highly engaged activities as their hobbies, despite these activities often taking over their free time. They find the traditional definition of a hobby not especially relatable and prefer to classify their activities as either activities they are highly engaged with (hyperfocus) or activities they find enjoyable in theory but haven't pursued yet.
Difficulty unwinding during free time is one of the criteria sometimes used to spot ADHD. For individuals with ADHD, their hobbies can take on a compulsive, expansive quality that monopolizes their attention. This can also manifest in their work if they have a job that can bring out the "hyperfocus."
It's important to remember that just because a hobby may take on addictive undertones for someone with ADHD, it doesn't mean they cannot have hobbies in the more traditional sense. They can still enjoy activities like reading, as long as they are able to manage their engagement and maintain a healthy balance.
The key words in the definition of a hobby are "leisure" and "pleasure." For people with ADHD, the line between leisure and work can often blur, making it challenging to maintain a balanced approach to hobbies. Understanding this unique perspective can help individuals with ADHD, as well as their friends and family, to better support and enjoy shared activities.
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