Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a problem regulating one’s attention span to desired tasks and not necessarily a lack of attention. While hyperfocus refers to a state of intense concentration. People often assume that individuals with ADHD completely lack focus. But did you know that most people with ADHD experience hyperfocus?
Hyperfocus is a condition of intense attention that some people with ADHD experience. This proves that people with ADHD don’t always have a short attention span. In fact, they can focus on a particular task for several hours.
How Does Hyperfocus Affect Children and Adults with ADHD?
For children, the object of hyperfocus might be playing a video game or watching TV. Adults, on the other hand, may be more fixated on social media, shopping, hobbies, or even work. But whatever holds their attention, the result is the same. Unless something or someone interrupts, hours drift as essential tasks and relationships fall by the wayside.
People who think ADHD means having a short attention span misunderstand what ADHD is, A better way to look at it is that people with ADHD have a dysregulated attention system.
Kathleen Nadeau, Ph.D, Psychologist, Author of “ADD-Friendly Ways to Organize your Life”
Much of what we know about ADHD is based on expert opinion or anecdotal evidence from those who suffer. Hyperfocus is a disputed condition because there is now limited scientific confirmation that it exists. It’s also not something that all people with ADHD experience. (Source: Attitude Magazine)
What are the Benefits of Hyperfocus?
Although hyperfocus can be harmful to a person’s life by diverting them from crucial duties, it can also be beneficial, as many scientists, artists, and authors have demonstrated.
On the other hand, others are less fortunate; their hyperfocus may be on menial things like video games or online shopping. Unrestricted emphasis on unproductive tasks can result in academic losses, decreased productivity at work, or broken relationships.
It can be a built-in advantage once you learn to use hyperfocus to your benefit. There are numerous stories about people with ADHD who can focus intensely on a complex project for lengthy periods. (Source: Attitude Magazine)
Can Hyperfocus Be Regulated?
If a child with ADHD tends to get lost in a favorite pastime, parents or teachers should first limit the amount of time the child is permitted to spend on it.
While you can’t simply turn your trait on or off. You can, however, figure out what makes you focus on specific topics. For example, you’re more inclined to lose yourself in things you enjoy. In other words, you can choose whether or not to enter hyperfocus mode.
Take note of what catches your attention and causes you to lose interest. Can you spend an entire day online shopping or researching historical trivia? This can assist you in determining what triggers your hyperfocus. You can take steps to manage it once you know. Others may not realize or comprehend how quickly you can sink into a black hole. Tell them what’s going on and ask for their help. Assist them in assisting you in waking up. For many people, a touch on the shoulder is preferable to be called by name. (Source: Attitude Magazine)