We so often associate ADHD challenges with schoolwork, paperwork, and housework. That means we don’t often think of ADHD as affecting sexual intimacy. In fact, many of assume that’s something that folks can do “in their sleep”.
Ah, but what you don’t know can hurt you.
It can hurt your love life. And it can hurt your ability to get to bed on time, go to sleep, and stay asleep, not to mention leaving you prone to gasping for air (sleep apnea) or dancing the cucharacha with your restless legs all night.
I invite you to visit my blog on ADHD and Relationships to learn a bit more on those two subjects and, best of all, read the many insightful comments from readers that follow. I guarantee you’ll find some kindred spirits.
Please note: These posts are from 2009. That’s how long I’ve been educating on these topics. And guess what? Much of this knowledge is evergreen.
1. ADHD and Sex: No Shame, No Blame
“Gina, sex is difficult for people with ADHD; it’s tough to stay focused!” says a female Facebook friend, responding to my query on this topic.Yes, it’s one of those areas, like sleep, where we often fail to connect the dots to ADHD symptoms. The truth is, ignorance about this critically important connection creates so much unnecessary hurt.
Left with no other rational explanation for intimate difficulties, partners sometimes blame themselves—or each other.
2. To Sleep, Perchance to Turn Off That *&$@# Computer
Being new to the area, my husband and I got lost on the way to our first adult ADHD discussion group in downtown San Francisco. Some heated bickering later (“You said to turn left!” and “I didn’t mean that left!”), we finally arrived and caught our breath.
That’s when a worn-out looking man across the table said something that sticks with me, ten years later:
“I’ve blamed a lot of people in my life for my troubles, but when it comes down to it, I finally realize that I am my own worst enemy. For forty years, I’ve not only opposed what other people want me to do, I’ve opposed what I want to do.”
Enjoy!
Gina
