Emotional Distress Syndrome and the ADHD Brain with James Ochoa

Emotional Distress Syndrome associated with ADHD, was recently identified and named by James Ochoa after 27 years of working with and treating patients with ADHD. He observed in his patients that Emotional Distress Syndrome leads to anger, low-self esteem, and the inability to control resulting emotional storms.
While ADHD medication and behavior therapy help with focus and hyperactivity, they do very little for Emotional Distress Syndrome. Fortunately, Ochoa created strategies for navigating the devastating disruptions caused by the condition. With these groundbreaking pathways, individuals with ADHD can thrive - not just survive - and lead happy, productive lives.
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5:47 A Brief History of ADHD
12:21 What Is Emotional Distress Syndrome?
15:13 Self-Esteem & Self-Identity
16:41 Eight Tools To Help You Weather The Storm
17:41 Acceptance
19:25 Mindfulness
26:00 Spirituality
27:05 EMDR
28:16 Imagination
29:20 Intuition
31:16 Humor
32:45 Daydreaming
39:54 Q&A
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[@fascistscansuckit]

"Most people with adhd don't trust their own internal experience." Wow. Once again, profound learning about myself, in my mid 50s.

[@KiwikimNZ]

Another in my 50s finally learning the most incredible insights about how and why I am the way I am. Diagnosed at 50! Finally I understand myself. We were defiantly missed in our childhood and told we were naughty and dumb. That scars you for life

[@shamanicsoulcoach9588]

This is such a profound session for me as I have retired and am finding my ADHD incredibly difficult. I had a very successful if complex career and I am now lost as I have no purpose. I am intrinsically bored as I have nothing I HAVE to do.

[@KiwikimNZ]

Yes they say major life changes throws us off. We build structures around us to be able to perform certain jobs and tasks and when we have that structure taken away we crumble.

[@sandytherry8647]

Same. I am totally lost and bored since retiring. Also, I don’t make friends easily.

[@ameleh61]

I'm in the process of retiring, and getting through the long list of things I've wanted to do but never could before diagnosis, understanding, therapy, and meds (at 60, last year). When I get to the end of the things on that list that I actually want to do, then what? My therapist says don't worry about that now, it will be much clearer then. I'm trying to go with that. But worrying about everything is the way my brain works.

[@shamanicsoulcoach9588]

@@ameleh61 since this post i have been doing Improv - comerdy improvisation classes. They fulfill all the needs of ADHD. Hope you have some locally. Try it.

[@lillianteplinsky8501]

I've had storms that won't go away. I'm in financial stress and strain. My career choice limits my ability for security. I've been job searching for over eight years and nothing works for me. I have physical limits as well as Learning challenges. This isn't an easy fix

[@Iquey]

Intuition whispers, impulse shouts. Intuition tugs on your leg like a quiet inner child trying to tell you something important. Impulse is like an older kid/young teen who wants something NOW! And begs and jumps up and down for your attention.

[@dfinite4089]

This is great, that he addresses this. This syndrome is a huge element, something that really gets in the way of relationships, and upsets daily life. It’s really difficult to handle and control; for both the person with ADHD and also all the people in the person’s in life,

[@johannariddle9703]

@@JOHNYTRIPS18...oninstagram what kind of mushrooms please?

[@taniyagorelik2326]

שששששש0ף

[@fascistscansuckit]

Dr. Russell Barkley refers this as DESR, or deficient emotional self regulation. Dr. Barkley says this is the third prong of ADHD diagnosis, always present along with inattentiveness and hyperactivity.

[@fascistscansuckit]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJmQeqOpebWcsKs&ab_channel=ADDitudeMagazine

[@ModMINI]

Crap. This is exactly me. How do people here deal with the ESD? I left it untreated for 53 years and it did grow into emotional distress disorder. and now I'm dealing with diagnosis-levels of anxiety and mild phobias that are dictating where my life goes. I did a lot of impulsive stuff but managed to stay out of trouble for decades, They have become have become deeply rooted habits and I never developed the impulse control because I have a permanent poker face and people can't tell when I'm lying to cover it up... I'm afraid to go out of the house because of all the triggers and the impulses are too big. I started a first line stimulant which has restored my attention and organizational ability, but has done nothing to stop the impulses. Have any of you worked on this through therapy or comedication or what? SSRI? CBT therapy? DBT therapy? Efficacy? Side effects?

[@sherrygonzales3434]

Wow I'd like to know the same thing! I do know stimulants relax and calm me which has always been a mystery to me

[@kihntagious]

wonderful comment Im exactly the same

[@kihntagious]

they spoke of guanfesin. Google it for info but I think that's the drug they used.

[@KiwikimNZ]

So pleased you have been diagnosed. I too am In my 50s and diagnosed at 50. After decades of suffering through this, we do have deep ingrained scars and it is very hard to change the habits we have. For me I started guided mediation, mindfulness and I have watched a lot of videos on how to implement tools into my everyday life in order to try take the strain off things. I too struggle, I can’t answer my phone, hate looking at bank statements, put my head in the sand and switch off to try and avoid the anxiety. I think acceptance helps but it is hard to take that first step as we procrastinate over things. I use breathing techniques to try and help with the anxiety. It’s hard isn’t it. Don’t give up on yourself, you can do this. Hugs I totally understand

[@deelistdaisy]

Try EFT tapping. I also like to "allow" the impulse, but add a qualifier to slow me down. For example, I might shop online and tell myself that I'm going to buy it, but I have to wait to order until the morning/tomorrow/whenever, and I shop happily. Sometimes I change my mind, sometimes I don't, but it helps to pause.

[@menarussell]

I hope my bf will get assessed. He's willing to see a therapist for general reasons. He has issues especially when he isn't working, which is a home office + travel job. So, he doesn't have typical office job where problems might creep up. I'm looking forward to getting help for myself and hopefully for him.

[@m.e.l.9335]

Gotta love Drs talking excitedly about a treatment don't you. These two obviously don't suffer Major Depression or CPTSD and been EMDR'd for it. Don't be too excited about EMDR folks. First word that comes to mind is it's BRUTAL. Your Dr. basically a stranger expects you tell your painful stories, relive them in vivid detail and narrate it coherently. It seems a very entitled stance to take with someone that has come seeking relief from that pain

[@SunnyGirlFlorida]

If you want to get better, you need to be vulnerable in order for people to understand your situation, how to help you and accurately prescribe medications to balance your mood. How is it entitled behavior if you went to them to get help and they tried to help you? Is it better to feel emotional pain during a session and begin to heal or suffer all alone for the rest of your life?

[@Tara15869]

Thank you. I think you could also make ADHD-friendly versions of these expanded videos, taking it down to a 5-10 minute summary

[@ashleyfarrell3576]

🤯 this is my unexplainable woe! And now I finally have the words…THANK YOU!!!

[@GrannyGooseOnYouTube]

Most helpful presentation I have seen!! Thx!!!

[@dfinite4089]

Ordered this book on Audible.

[@sallywebb1730]

Excellent!

[@kikki2012]

Could (neurological) Dysregulation be another term for Emotional Distress Syndrome? As far as I know, they look alike, and is a common and debilitating issue for people with C-PTSD.

[@sherrygonzales3434]

Yeah for people with CPTSD from childhood trauma and adding ADHD to the mix.. Geeez I'm just realizing I may have been struggling with undiagnosed ADHD my whole life and have been trying to figure out why traditional treatments for my emotional issues never worked.. knowing there are things I can do to help get my life under control is such a hopeful feeling

[@kikki2012]

@@sherrygonzales3434 Yeah, it's tough with both issues. I do hope you find what will help you the most!

[@MellowBellow1]

There is a real overlap in emotional experience for ADHD and C-PTSD. the symptoms of ADHD can cause C-PTSD in a child. Rejection Dysphoria overlaps with the fearful avoidant abandonment anxiety too.

[@fascistscansuckit]

I commented here about Dr. Russell Barkley, PhD, another ADHD expert, has vids here about what he refers to as DESR, or deficient emotional self regulation. How it is always present in ADHD folks, along with various mix of inattentiveness and hyperactivity, impulsivity.

[@kelsco4039]

Thank you, Mr. Ochoa, for the good lecture. Is it possible to purchase your new book in audio format without purchasing a subscription service for audiobooks in general?As an aside there may be a lot of therapists for EMDR, but not many in this nation, who take Medicare. Thank you

[@jonathanberry1111]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:01 🎙️ *Introduction to Emotional Distress Syndrome (EDS)* - James Ochoa introduces Emotional Distress Syndrome (EDS) associated with ADHD. - EDS comprises anger, low self-esteem, and emotional firestorms. - Overview of the webinar's focus on how EDS affects daily life and strategies for managing emotional storms. 03:26 🌪️ *The Nature of Emotional Stress in ADHD: A Short Story* - James shares a personal story of a six-year-old with ADHD and a photographic memory. - Highlights the missed strengths and the emotional disruption caused by the ADHD diagnosis. - Emphasizes the ongoing challenge of managing emotional and mental stress associated with ADHD. 05:26 📚 *Evolution of ADHD Understanding Over Two Decades* - Brief history of ADHD understanding from the 60s to the 2010s. - Emphasis on the shift from behavior management to neuroscience. - Introduction to James' shift towards a neurological and developmental approach. 08:49 🌐 *Connecting Neuroscience to Emotional Distress* - Discussion on using neuroscience and the science of the mind to understand ADHD. - Personal experience as an individual with ADHD and a professional counselor. - Introduction to the concept of Emotional Distress Syndrome (EDS) as a low-grade post-traumatic stress. 11:36 ⚖️ *Managing Emotional and Mental Stress: The Missing Component* - Identification of the missing component in treating ADHD: managing emotional and mental stress. - Acknowledgment of ongoing challenges even for an expert in the field. - Introduction to strategies for navigating and managing emotional stress. 14:18 🌧️ *Weathering the Storms: Building Pillars of Self-Esteem* - Explanation of the metaphorical storms representing emotional disruptions. - Importance of building pillars of self-esteem and self-identity. - Challenges and strategies for navigating life with ADHD-related storms. 16:42 🧰 *Eight Essential Tools for Managing ADHD* - Overview of eight tools for managing attention-related issues and stress. - Importance of acceptance and ongoing acceptance as a developmental process. - Introduction to mindfulness and meditation as crucial tools for individuals with ADHD. 19:12 🧘‍♂️ *Mindfulness as a Fundamental Practice* - Explanation of mindfulness as hitting the pause button neurologically. - Importance of incorporating mindfulness into daily life. - Separation of meditation into guided, silent, and contemplative forms. 22:18 🌌 *Guided Meditation Demonstration* - Practical demonstration of a brief guided meditation for ADHD individuals. - Encouragement to integrate short meditation sessions into daily life. - Emphasis on the simplicity and effectiveness of mindfulness for resetting attention. 26:19 🌈 *Spirituality as a Tool for Meaning and Connection* - Introduction of spirituality as a tool for finding personal meaning. - Emphasis on spirituality's role in providing a sense of connection to life. - Clarification that spirituality is not necessarily religious but a guide for personal connection. 26:31 📘 *Spiritual Perspective on Emotional Distress* - Emotional distress associated with ADHD requires a personal spiritual approach. - Stress related to attention issues underscores the importance of staying connected to oneself. - Developing spirituality is crucial in managing the chronic nature of ADHD. 27:09 🧘‍♂️ *EMDR as a Therapeutic Technique* - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic technique for stress and anxiety. - Originally used for post-traumatic stress disorder, EMDR is effective in addressing ADHD-related stress. - Certification is required, and it's a therapeutic technique done within sessions. 28:17 🌌 *Harnessing Imagination as a Tool* - Imagination is a powerful tool for those with ADHD, aiding in developing a connection with oneself. - ADHD individuals often have a rich imagination, and channeling it can be transformative. - Using imagination helps in staying connected to oneself amid the stress of ADHD. 29:21 🤔 *Developing Intuition* - Intuition is a tool to help make decisions based on one's highest good. - Developing intuition involves reconnecting to a God-given space within oneself. - The "intuition walk" is a practical exercise to strengthen and trust one's intuition. 31:22 😄 *The Significance of Humor* - Humor is a critical stress-relief tool, providing a release from mental stress. - Laughter, a powerful element of humor, can soften the tough edges surrounding ADHD challenges. - Integrating humor, even in self-reflection, aids in managing mental stress. 32:41 🌈 *Strategic Therapeutic Daydreaming* - Strategic therapeutic daydreaming involves envisioning for mental and emotional health. - Creating imaginary worlds in one's mind fosters confidence, courage, and self-care. - Regular practice of strategic daydreaming contributes to neurological strength. 34:16 🧠 *Clay Mold Brain and Mental Flexibility* - The clay mold brain analogy emphasizes that new experiences reshape the mind. - Understanding how the brain develops along learning lines aids in managing ADHD. - Continuous learning and stretching experiences alter the mind's dimensions. 35:38 ⛈️ *Navigating Storms of ADHD* - Storms in life, representing ongoing challenges, lead to mental and emotional stress. - Acknowledging and managing ADHD-related stress is crucial for effective living. - Education about brain development and the ADHD diagnosis helps in staying grounded. 39:04 🔄 *Ongoing Process of Acceptance* - Acceptance of ADHD is an ongoing process that evolves over time. - Understanding ADHD as a genetic condition helps normalize differences. - Developmentally, acceptance looks different at various stages of life. 47:29 🔍 *Exploring EMDR Therapy in Detail* - EMDR involves bilateral hemisphere crossing, desensitizing stress and anxiety. - Certification is required for practitioners, and finding one can be done through the EMDR Institute. - EMDR is particularly effective for lessening guilt or negative feelings associated with ADHD challenges. 52:29 🌐 *The impact of ongoing progress and maintenance* - Progress in managing ADHD is not a one-time effort; it requires continuous maintenance. - Comparable to exercise, where consistent effort is needed to sustain results over time. 53:12 📱 *Media and Technology's Influence on Attention* - Media and technology are designed to capture and hold attention, posing challenges for individuals with ADHD. - Screen time management, screen vacations, and communication about electronic usage are essential strategies. 55:28 💊 *Connection Between Medication and Emotional State* - Effective ADHD medication can improve focus, concentration, and emotional regulation. - Medication rebound, where irritability may occur as medication wears off, needs attention and potential adjustment. - Discussing observed irritability with a doctor and exploring strategies like breaks, exercise, or mild caffeine intake may help. 57:47 📘 *Impact of "Focus Forward" Book and Listener Testimonial* - Acknowledgment and gratitude for the impact of the book "Focus Forward." - Testimonial highlighting the book's assistance in addressing emotional aspects and thriving without medication. - Recognition and appreciation for James Ochoa's contribution. Made with HARPA AI

[@philuin9594]

What if you had an emotional disregulation since childhood affecting the fight or flight response. Then throughout life having more trauma possible ptsd?

[@NicholasDunbar]

What is the psychological definition of acceptance? Or rather what are the components of acceptance?

[@georgerdunbar]

So what is the definition??

[@ModMINI]

It is defined as "the process of embracing thoughts, emotions and other internal experiences without judgement and without trying to change them," by the American Psychology Association, the organizational body that is universally acknowledged to governs modern Psychology.

[@anumoorthy4239]

I Tried to find the website James reccoomends at the end of program. I Need to distinguis these letter & Abbreviations though. I thought heard james say are many ,30,000 trained therapists and that we can only find them this way! It wasnt 100% clear what letters abbreviations i heard James say. ( i eventook phone of leathercase to hear better) i heard him say this- EMDR Institute.& to google EMDR institute? & google therapists, etc. But If u google EMDR what csme up random desensitize eye movement?? PLEASE HELP CLEAR TBIS UP!! PLEASE respond. Emotional Distress Syndrome EDS

[@Patricia-vd9xh]

Late reply, but yes. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is extremely helpful somatic technique for releasing stress and very helpful in treating old traumas. There are also some similar self-help techniques to use after working with a therapist. But it really takes learning how it works to be able to do it for yourself.

[@eugenemcleod525]

Thank you so much for this clear explanation of adhd. I am a mother whose 54 year old daughter have these symptoms and causes strain in all relationships. Her deniel is painful. She blames every one for rejecting her but do not get her attitude is causing the problem. How can I help her to get tested. Her on line test pointed to adhd. HELP.

[@sherrygonzales3434]

Approach it very carefully.. she probably doesn't realize it's her fault.. I'm reevaluating my whole life realizing just how much the ADHD has influenced my actions and emotions.. she's going to need your understanding and forgiveness when she realizes

[@karenmarshall5444]

It sounds like you are saying you are are rejecting her. That is your choice and your responsibility. Instead of rejecting her why don’t you make it clear it’s the behaviour you don’t like. She is not her behaviour. If you want her to accept her adhd then you probably need to accept it yourself. It’s not her fault she has got it. Would you blame someone with cancer for the difficulties they have in accepting what’s happening for them.

[@eugenemcleod525]

I appreciate all response. I am not bla.ming. she is in denial and cursing mom out blaming her for rejection. I love my daughter dearly but her behavior has almost driven me to .......

[@sandytherry8647]

EMDR doesn’t work for me. Is there anything else you can recommend?

[@KiwikimNZ]

Guided meditation, reiki, accupunture, breathing techniques have helped me

[@deelistdaisy]

Eft tapping

[@annak29]

The first study of 6 year old with "photographic memory" defies the problem of working visual memory deficits in ADHD. The child has HFA, with his meltdowns, hitting, and anti-social behavior.

[@ModMINI]

It is common for ADHD people to have amazing abilities that can be only applied to narrow areas of intense interest, yet fail completely in disinteresting aspects of life. They also be broadly capable but have little control over impulses and emotions to a serious degree and be incapable of long-term change. The thing they are good at is what keeps them going. It's what maintains their state of wellness. While others find enjoyability in many life activities, ADHD people enjoy have fewer activities, with more intensity. Other activities are unwelcome distractions.

[@gillrobinson3517]

Yeah well he has a wife who reminds him. I don't have an external source to remind me of things. So yes he has learned how deal with his stress but still he has the wife to help.

[@eastchchkea6475]

Was turned off by his use of spirituality

[@KiwikimNZ]

Why? If we close our minds off then we we only closing options which may help us. Be open to anything :)

[@standuser9696]

As soon as I heard the word "spirituality" I was skeptical about finishing the video then I heard "god-given" and just couldn't do it.

[@groadybones]

14+3=27

[@marybaksheeva2874]

I mean I love all the theoretical stuff and understand the benefits but honestly hate all the breathing and relaxing and meditating whatsoever. Happy for all those practicing but .. No way for me 🥲

[@taradaves3096]

I'm not a "woo woo" person either! I don't do "affirmations" because it just feels so fake. But I have noticed that physically stimulating the vagus nerve in two specific ways does clear both my body and mind to do what I need to do. One is by smiling - just the biggest, fakest, forced grin I can muster! Holding that for several seconds or a minute does something, I don't know what, to help my thinking and attitude. The second is to sit back and relax (if I lie down I'm liable to go to sleep), then breathe in almost as deep as I can, hold it for a few seconds, then breathe in again to bursting, hold, then slowly exhale, pushing out all the CO2 all the way down to my diaphragm. This expands the farthest alveoli and expels stale air, and the vagal nerve stimulation makes me feel calmer.

[@KiwikimNZ]

I used to too as I didn’t have the patience to do it and it didn’t seem to help. I thought it was all bullshit and thought it was easy for people that do not have adhd or anxiety to say do it! But I did continue to practice and it had helped me so much.