What is Executive Function and Why Do We Need it?

[@Maddddddddy]

My laundry has been sitting on my bed for a week now. It's my most complicated task.

[@CannedTunas]

F LAUNDRY

[@categodfrey4722]

I'm horrible about this too but I just started sorting things before washing them by type, like shirts alone and pants next, so that when they come out there is less mental burden. It's easier to just fold everything when everything folds the exact same way. At least for me. Feel free to tell me to STHU

[@springcrow]

And it NEVER ends.... laundry, the ultimate Bossfight, never to be won

[@KevinStamps22]

@@springcrow Thank you Mario! But our princess is in another castle!

[@oreoh_no6858]

Ah yes, my chairdrobe is in a similar situation

[@DaBetaDog11]

“Ah, interesting.” I think, as I sit on the toilet watching my 20th KZbin video instead of completing the single simple task I’ve had a month to do that is due tomorrow. “I wonder if I’ve got issues with executive function?”

[@ennvee3354]

That not funny, but you sure make it sound soooo ,typical .

[@-TSApril-]

OUCH BECAUSE SAME

[@toobossforchuck]

wowww I feel called out😂

[@joselineramos8100]

Yeap same.

[@LeedleleedleDae]

Mood. Just mood.

[@Kpop0223]

This channel has allowed me to overcome some shame I had trying to finish college with undiagnosed ADHD. After I've realized I have it, got medication, and work with my brain differently, I am in such a better place.

[@Zalamandar]

Always such an awesome thing to hear. Don't let your guard down though! ADHD will be waiting... 😛

[@penelopefp]

I'm 53 and still working on college. I was diagnosed 7 years ago. No shame in slow and steady....!!

[@knightofthewind1000]

I'm in my first year of college and just started my first, lower dose of meds, still feeling like I have such a mountain to climb, is nice to hear that you have managed to get to a better place 😁

[@whatever-ou2he]

Which medication are you taking?

[@thiseconomyiscra_y]

Congratulations❤😍

[@arianne2670]

I spent hours yesterday trying to get myself to step away from my phone and do something I enjoy (learning embroidery) - I failed. Sometimes it feels like I'm holding myself hostage, and that really sucks. At least when I watch these videos I know I'm not alone in it :)

[@Bozeman42]

I feel that! I have been wanting to work on some electronics stuff, but IT IS DOWNSTAIRS. What an impassible gulf. Instead of taking 5 minutes to bring the things I need up, let's scroll twitter for 3 hours!

[@madlycountingsheep139]

God do I relate to this. As an artist I have so many projects I want to work on and things I want to try but I can't get myself to move and do it and I just sit there in bed on my phone SCREAMING AND BEGGING TO MOVE. It's so hindering.

[@musicislife7464]

I can only avoid my phone for so long 😭😭😭. My watch helps me to not check it as often . I can’t read I can’t sit down and read a book ever :(it’s super annoying :(. . I’m going to get re tested in a few weeks . To see if I still have it? Lol. Don’t think you can grow out of it.

[@nicholekennedy362]

@@madlycountingsheep139 OMG IKR, I’ve just been asking myself WHY JUST WHY!!

[@ahumuzamuzoora]

I’ve been struggling with this for so long!

[@kritikataank]

“We can do hard things but we don't need to do them in the hardest way possible.” Jessica

[@foxwaffles]

I read online a few weeks ago that wanting to get something done yet somehow it's not getting done and WHY AM I SITTING HERE WHY CAN'T MOVE MY BUTT AND DO THE THING is actually not procrastination it's just executive function leaving the room...

[@HowtoADHD]

hahaha "executive function leaving the room" is AMAZING

[@susanzoeckler4926]

Hah! I've considered buying a leash for mine

[@SlickVicRM]

I'm visualizing a board meeting where the CEO walks out and the other board members just stare at each other in awkward silence because they no longer know what to do

[@coregoon]

This about sums up my life. 😅

[@Ryan2020]

I didn't know this thanks!

[@ems9616]

Irony, this poped up right in my feed after I just found out I missed my second vacciene due to my adhd... welp, one for the algorythm

[@jasmint3207]

Omg you made me laugh 😂 the algorythm is watching ... at least it showed you something helpful, right? 😁

[@rev.rachel]

Oops! I hope you can get it sorted without too much executive function hassle :)

[@benwh6540]

Yes, it’s what ADHD reWired coined as “ADHD-tax” 🤦🏻‍♂️every missed booking, every fine overdue, every lost item, every thing I broke because I got mad at it!

[@Bozeman42]

"iF iT'S iMPorTaNt YoU wilL rEMemBeR." /s No. No I won't.

[@xdperrinette]

@@Bozeman42 yesss I feel you....but I must sya sometiime it slipped out and I say it to other (with a bit of sarcasm here and there)

[@katieannrocks7947]

I was literally just thinking about how I can't function correctly in this moment and boom your video showed up.

[@Zingius]

same here. Delaying work right now. Feel paralized

[@Ginamations3267]

Literally sameeeee

[@kimberlypence2615]

One thing that I have learned is that if I need to do something "weird" in order to accomplish things then I should just do that. I used to think that if I just kept trying to do things the "normal" way eventually it would click and I would get it, but if I let myself do things the "weird" way I am much more likely to get them done. Like installing a program that blocks me from my computer two hours before bedtime. Or having a continual list on my phone, or making people write notes instead of just telling me, or buying a certain kind of sock because its the only kind that doesn't set off my sensory issues. These things make my life so much easier

[@susanzoeckler4926]

You touched on something VERY important. Yes! We do have to be willing to be "weird". Our ADHD challenges demand creativity, innovation, bold experimentation, & brave exploration. I've learned to claim weirdness as a superpower🦸‍♀️

[@SweetStuffOnMonarchLane]

YES, so true! Took me so long to come to that conclusion too! They need to teach that to the younger kids with ADHD so they don't waste half their lives trying to conform to things that don't work for them.

[@Plethorality]

yes!! i have wasted decades trying to be normal, and for what? it got me nowhere and blocked the creativity. weird is the way forward.

[@Catlily5]

@@Plethorality Better weird than boring!

[@jhonellemcguire760]

This. This right here. You nailed it.

[@sullennessa3819]

At 72, I watched this and almost cried. I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression but can now see that, while they were right that I had both of those, the missed the underlying reason why. Better late than never. I will be looking for a adhd specialist. Thanks.

[@LegionOfWeirdos]

I have routines set up for the kids. One has ADHD and the other doesn't, but I make them both do them to reinforce the idea, as having a routine isn't going to hurt a neurotypical kid... They've been massively helpful to me as an adult. People who've known me have called them "quirks," but whatever. Those "quirks" often let me perform better than neurotypicals in many areas.

[@prethambbs5087]

Hi, would you mind sharing some of the routines you use? I'm struggling for ways to organize my life. But I'm always willing to learn.

[@JudgeyJudgeyable]

Yes! Routines are such lifesavers! Gretchin Rubin’s book on routines turned me onto it. It can be hard to get into them but once you do, you’re flying. Your kids are lucky you are helping them get into routines early.

[@MarsellaFyngold]

Dude, routines are like.....the original lufe hacks. Regardless where you are on the neurodivergence-typicality spectrum.

[@lilianzelaya-coria1509]

Do you mind sharing the routines?

[@parasocialshepard7067]

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for your videos. I'm recently coming to terms with some mental health problems I've had for my entire life, ADHD being one of the suspects. So thank you very much for the hard work, and all the support you show for those of us that are struggling.

[@beepbeep6500]

:D

[@therubbergymnast]

Am I the only one that had to go back and re-listen to the definition of what executive function meant 20 times in a row until my executive function actually could focus and hone in to understand what executive function meant

[@krg98]

​@@therubbergymnastI just rewinded it for the second time 😢

[@bia7932]

perfect timing.... just sent an email (the body was only 1 phrase) that I've been procrastinating off writing for 2 days..

[@susanzoeckler4926]

Yesss!

[@arianne2670]

Honestly, I'm proud of you! I know how much effort it can take.

[@bia7932]

@@arianne2670 aww :(( this made my day thank u ily

[@arianne2670]

@@bia7932 ❤️

[@Mads_Hatter]

Smh we should make a petition to change ADHD’s name. It should just be renamed “executive function disorder” because I feel like the name ADHD only covers like two things about it.

[@azlizzie]

Definitely describes it better.

[@Mads_Hatter]

@@azlizzie yeah, “attention deficit hyperactivity disorder” just sounds like a kid who can’t pay attention and is bouncing off the walls

[@AlexandarHullRichter]

@@Mads_Hatter that's exactly how my mom characterized it, and that's why I'm now in my 30s withouta good foundation on how to manage myself.

[@Hwelhos]

yeah cuz were ef'd

[@alienspacekitten6187]

That just makes efd like imagine you explaining your efd to your neurotypical friend and they say "yah that's efed for you lol get it?"

[@BreGrant98]

For anyone who has trouble showering: Buy a Bluetooth speaker, start music and lock your phone outside the bathroom. Don't leave the bathroom until the thing is done. Trust me, it helps!

[@FireflyAereids]

Omfg thank you will try

[@OnServantsWings]

This explains so much about why I only started recognizing myself as an adult in the past couple of years. I've kept pushing myself to do "adult" things but only recently started experiencing myself as an adult despite being 31. Thank you!

[@mariezguitar5029]

I’m over 50 and still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. Pretty colour sticky notes help.

[@debspayne2668]

Snap, I'm 34 and always use the word adulting, omg it's just executive ummmmm I forgot the other word.......damn it!! Lol

[@anthonyyork3216]

ive struggled with adhd my whole life and nearly cost me my apprewnticeship which at 17 is everything including my education and after watching so many of your videos ive been able to cope better and socialings has become easier. i just really appreciate the effort you put into all your videos cause its makes a difference and you make a difference to other people in so many ways.

[@Artecus]

Can you explain more? What kind of apprenticeship? How did it almost cost you the apprenticeship? Examples? What did you exactly change to get better?

[@misteegraham4172]

Hiring a house keeper who’s primary job was the laundry was the smartest thing I ever did. Miss Patty has been part of our family for almost 10 years. My 3 children (now ages 18,21,23) had a much better childhood because of her! I could always wash & dry the laundry… but it was just the folding & definitely the putting it away that got me stuck. So everyone in our family (including a then 8 year old) would wash & dry their own laundry & Miss Patty would arrive to 5-6 baskets of clean laundry & she’d fold & put away mine & my husbands laundry… but the girls were required to put away their own. She then tackle the bathrooms & floors if time… but laundry was always the main priority. I appreciate this woman so much. Plus, knowing she was coming on Thursdays… forced me to straighten up every Wednesday. Find you a helper. Your mind deserves it!

[@greenqueenn]

I am an adult at university and, yes, I still use a sticker chart... I genuinely don't know if I'd have managed to get any of my work done through quarantine without it😂 And I buy extra super exciting stickers for courses I don't like to make doing the work seem more exciting!!🎉

[@susanzoeckler4926]

I'm 62 & my university days are long past -- but I am going to buy glittery silly stickers the next chance I get! Believe it or not -- this kind of thing still works for me. Good luck to you!

[@blazertundra]

I sometimes bribe myself with a trip to the gas station for candy and a slushie when I need to do a hard thing, so I totally understand. 😂

[@susanzoeckler4926]

@@blazertundra Yup! For me it's ice cream & jewelry designs, but yours gets you out of the house. Even better

[@penelopefp]

I designed my own planner. Splurged on a $10 reem of really nice paper to print it on. (I can print my own planner for YEARS now!) And treated myself to my favorite pens. Now calendaring and habit tracking is WAAY more rewarding!!!

[@Dancestar1981]

Does it work well for you?

[@rosewhipple7513]

Wow, I literally just missed the deadline for my online quiz yesterday and I’ve been so frustrated that I couldn’t do any of my schoolwork anymore... perfect timing.

[@susanzoeckler4926]

You are doing great! Remember that there are excellent reasons -- REAL reasons -- why this happened. Don't beat yourself up. And letting your teachers know you have ADHD does not mean you're looking for an excuse or special privileges. It's giving them valuable information that they (the good ones anyway) will appreciate. Be well

[@celestewatson8351]

I swear no matter what the video is about, I always end up weeping due to the validation.

[@OkieCam16]

...and then again when reading the comments.

[@siyandadlamini496]

❤ It hurts so much realising the torturous lives we’ve lived without diagnosis of this disorder. Makes me furious and weep at the same time

[@QuinnytheDM]

I keep trying to start this video, but then I get distracted, look away, and realize the video is half over and I still haven't listened to it. 3rd times the charm. After finishing the video, I struggle a lot with the idea that the executive function behaviors are being an adult. I understand why it is said, but it just results in me constantly feeling childish. This channel is an amazing resource and has been a big help in realizing just how much of my life is affected by ADHD. This has easily become on of my favorite channels Keep up the good work

[@susanzoeckler4926]

Hah! Exactly. I would take notes but where oh where is my notebook? And a pen I need a pen ...?

[@whatisahandle221]

Please don’t look down on yourself-or buy into others’ opinions of “what is normal” or what you “should” be able to do or not do without some external aids. It’s like if you were 5’ 5” tall and needed a book from the top shelf of a 7’ tall shelf in the library of congress: would you feel ashamed of yourself for using a ladder? Would you really bother to cate about some 6’ 6” tall guy from making fun of you for using a ladder while he sits comfortably at his own desk with the books he was able to easily reach? Does it matter that he didn’t need a ladder but you do? Suggestions: Lookup the How to ADHD Fish Song. And, if you can/are interested in dipping a toe deeper: lookup Dr Russel Barkley’s “This is how you treat ADHD based off science”. And, really, start getting to know yourself-your strengths, your weaknesses, your gifts, and your common hiccups-with a lot less judgement about what is “adult” or “supposed to be able to do without [such-and-such-help]”, and start learning what and how you can work _with_ your brain versus trying to make it work exactly like everyone else expects.

[@savannahhodson15]

I myself do not have ADHD but my husband does. I stumbled across your channel when I was trying to learn more about ADHD so I can help my husband find ways to keep him on track and make life more ADHD friendly. I hate when people get so angry at him because of how his brain works because at one point in time he began to be afraid to do anything or try anything because he didn't want to fail or disappoint or really just upset anyone in general. I showed him the video of you on Ted Talk and he cried because he related to everything you spoke about so deeply. These videos you are making I believe is so so so great and they truly are very helpful not only to those who have ADHD but for people like me who dont have it but are willing to learn more about it so they can try and help someone they love struggling with this. This channel has helped my husband make his days a little easier each day. Thank you so much. Please never stop what your doing ❤

[@lisawhitehall1870]

❤

[@JuhoHartikainen]

I’ve created a sort of a dopamine menu as a color-coded word cloud of routines and possible things to do; written a lot of lists; kept journals; created timetables and charts and so on… but I keep polishing them too much and I’m having a hard time actually getting any of them affect my actual day-to-day behavior. Writing things down or talking about doing them makes me feel like I kind of almost did them already, but then I don’t follow up on that. Suggestions warmly welcome! ❤️

[@heiditaylor3514]

I do the same thing! Reminding myself to do something turns into thinking I already did it!

[@xdperrinette]

@@heiditaylor3514 SAME omg

[@howcomeitsbeeping]

Having a set of routines is great. But learning to follow them consistently takes a really, REALLY long time. I feel like my routines never become completely automatic, but remembering to use them does get easier, eventually. Don't try to do everything at once. Pick one very, very simple routine, like getting the dishes done. Put the steps on a post-it note above the sink, and set a timer to remind yourself to look at it each night. For me, steps 1 and 2 are generally "put on apron" (it's cute and it reminds me that I'm cleaning when I inevitably wander out of the room) and "music", because music helps me initiate new tasks. In a month, maybe the dishes are getting done more often. If not, you adjust and try something new.

[@cheerfulbutterkitty9598]

I'm happy to say I got sent to this channel yesterday after getting diagnosed with inattentive ADHD. My counselor actually recommended watching you. You're doing an awesome job at this KZbin thing mate 👍👍👍

[@mamasaidno1749]

I learned that I have ADHD last year at the age of 63. While at first it sort of 'threw' me, once I got over the initial shock, I was THRILLED. I now understood why I did or didn't do things, why I am so freaking funny and creative, and why I sometimes feel that I am being rejected, when I am really not. I am not sorry that it took so long to discover this about myself. I have had a wonderful life, even with the ups and downs of ADHD, and I intend to continue doing so. I am learning to work with my brain, not try to force it into a 'normal' mode, and it is working. I have a lot to be thankful for, and YOU, my dear girl, are a big part of that. You explain the different aspects of ADHD in simple, funny and practical ways (the pomodoro technique is life changing). God bless you, and I look forward to more videos.

[@shanemcgirr3667]

Hey i just wanted to say thank you, i literally have gone through my whole life feeling out of step and like a fog and pretty much wasn't sure what was going on with me, i came across your videos and i just watched them and alot of what i learnt from you clicked with me and i went to the doctors to have a look into this possibility, it took a year and alot of appointments and assessments but it turns out i was right and have now started adhd medication last week and its like for once i feel so clear and for once that i can breath. Im 25 and it took me this long but finally things make sense and i feel for once in control and i really just wanted to thank you for helping me and educating me, you really helped me change my life and for that i will never be able to show you how much i appreciate it. Keep doing what you do, because you really are helping so many and just seriously thank you 😊

[@susanzoeckler4926]

The best is yet to be

[@hunterpearson892]

Congrats on everything!

[@shanemcgirr3667]

@@hunterpearson892 aww thank you 😊

[@shanemcgirr3667]

@@susanzoeckler4926 Thank you 😊

[@Plethorality]

you have me in tears. big hug and congratuations. i was diagniosed last year, at 55. finally feeling like a grown up.

[@PetersonRyan97]

1.7k likes and not a single dislike. You can tell we really appreciate your videos! You've helped so many of us better understand and work with our ADHD. Thank you :)

[@benjaminlamptey1867]

Being an adult in university, I still need lists and charts to operate so I make a bunch (not that they work). Having other people keep me accountable has really kept me afloat. If no one cared I'd prob have dropped out a while ago (and shocked pretty much everyone who knows me, claiming I'm smart 😂). Thanks so much for doing this, I can imagine how hard it is. Know that it's extremely helpful. I'm almost wondering what I'd do without this channel 😆.

[@ny020]

I really appreciate these videos. My wife is adhd and it helps me to understand what she is going through to support her better. We have been dating since we were kids and to watch her grow through this has been a real blessing. I wish I understood this better when we first met but better late then never right?

[@Dancestar1981]

Absolutely

[@kariccio]

“We can do hard things, but we don’t need to do them in the hardest way possible.” WOW. Great words! Do the things that work for you, in the way that they work for you🙌🏻👏🏻

[@TheSaneHatter]

I just got off of three days struggling with "executive function": got my bicycle fixed, did SIX loads of laundry (with a bad machine), ditched the trash & recycling, survived walking home without the bus, met online with my ABA guy, and juggled three huge pieces of business & therapeutic correspondence . . . and I'm not sone yet. My head HURTS!!!

[@treefrog1018]

Wow. The next time I feel embarrassed writkng a list for myself in a place where NO ONE else is, I'll just remind myself: Would I be embarrassed using a ramp while in a wheelchair? 🙃

[@ericasmith5531]

As an undiagnosed ADHD brain I know I’ve been coping with my executive dysfunction by trying my hardest to write important things down on my calendar or agenda every day AND make sure I constantly re-organize my stuff to make daily tasks easier on on executive function, as well as re-evaluate my executive function tools like white boards, digital calendars, notepads, to-do lists, sticky notes, etc to see what’s working best for me *right now*... it’s such a struggle to keep up with my demanding brain just to do the simplest tasks, but seeing these videos are extremely validating and motivational. Thank you for making me feel welcome and supported! Thank you for educating, and doing your best while you do! ❤️

[@ich_musste_das_fur_komment5897]

I needed that. Yesterday I had one of those "Why can't I be neurotypical"-days? Today, I'm happy again to be a fellow brain. Thank you for rallying us up. I helps incredibly to know, I'm not alone with it.

[@MsHedgehog]

I have autism, not adhd (i think) and your videos have been really helpful. There is much overlap and even the things that do not are intresting in contrast.

[@rachelleverone9268]

executive dysfunction almost ruined my life, getting diagnosed and on meds has improved everything tenfold

[@1QueenAliquippa]

Thank you! What confuses me is that, as I get older, it seems like it's getting worse. I didn't find out I had ADHD until around 43 years old, but when I did everything made so much sense! I really appreciate your videos because you break things down in a way many can understand and you're very relatable!

[@SweetStuffOnMonarchLane]

I'm 52, diagnosed at 48, and yes, it does seem to get worse. I find that I do much better if I eat well and really get my sleep. If you're female, it (especially memory!) can get much worse around perimenopause and menopause with the hormonal changes. Rick Green at TotallyADD just had a video about that where he talked with a doctor who specializes in it. She said the ADHD medications typically don't help with the memory problems, but hormone replacement might. He had interviewed another doctor awhile back and she said a lot of people in nursing homes being treated for dementia really have undiagnosed ADHD... including her own sister because the doctors won't believe her! She even brought them studies to prove what she was trying to tell them! Her sister is getting much worse because she is not getting the correct medications. I feel so bad for those older people that were never diagnosed and continue to suffer. We have come a long way, but there is still so much to be done!

[@ShadowRaven66669]

The longer that your downstairs/primitive brain is stuck in survival mode, the worse it becomes.

[@nekkomemes3647]

I've been studing clinical studies on this, and man, i will give credit to the work she puts in finding the truth.👍

[@martinweir4007]

I vividly remember taking tests at the age of 40 to see if I have ADHD. Turned out yes, inattentive type. My executive function came to a screeching halt when the “working memory” test came up. Pre-diagnosis, off course, so I beat myself up something awful. Love this show, love that you call us “brain”! Thank you!

[@jasmint3207]

I'm so happy you made this video! I struggle a lot with executive functions and also often don't know how to explain to others what the problem is. Instead, I often feel ashamed that I can't "just" do things that seem so basic and easy to virtually everyone I know. Thank you for giving me the words! Looking forward to more videos about this :)

[@settembrini3301]

I feel like the executive function bit is what impairs my life the most. I'm writing an essay for university which is due in three days. I had three month and I was highly motivated in the beginning, than I got sidetracked, switched topics a few times, got way to many books from the library and forgot to give them back on time... Yesterday I finally started writing, because now its urgend enough for me to do it, even though I know, it will not be good enough and that I messed up, what could have been a really good essay. Your videos are very encouraging. Thanks for your great work and sorry for my bad english.

[@Dancestar1981]

Definitely I have Aspergers and ADHD Inattentive so doubly affected by the executive functioning being impaired

[@KP-rh5qz]

Perfect timing, this is a great reminder for me and my son.

[@butterflyeffect6298]

popped up in my recommended while I was struggling to study for a chem test... another point to the algorithm!

[@spencerhodgson4540]

It’s been a literal year since I’ve watched one of these videos because I’ve been so overwhelmed by everything

[@Heothbremel]

That moment when you have to rewatch this because you tried to pay attention and your brain retained basically none of it... This is a really great one!!!

[@litoaranda1810]

Thank you, your videos, Tips and experiences help us understand our own obstacles and challenges, and let's us have empathy to know we are not alone in this world.

[@skankinthecomments]

My therapist sent me this video! I've been subbed for a while, but the fact my therapist recommended you to me just goes to show how much research/care you put into your videos ❤❤❤

[@anthonydepaula7176]

I'm 32 year's old my cognitive thinking process didn't fully come in till 29, along with a cleaner diet and cognitive herbal supplements. I also didn't start taking medication till 27 when my son was diagnosed. it's really insane how much of a shell i used to be i was always raised taught that I was "lazy"... anyways I just wanted to say thank you! for doing what you do & bringing more awareness to ADHD in adulthood.

[@historiansrevolt4333]

When a video on executive function comes up as I am having issues with it to get work done... hello brains!

[@Agowns94]

I was diagnosed last week and your videos have helped big time - I don't even know where to start attempting to explain how my adhd feels to my loved ones but you do it so perfectly!!

[@shrander68]

Saliency Determination (prioritizing: what's on fire? what's burning hottest? which fire is closest to me?) is another aspect of ExecFunc. I wish she'd included that, too. Maybe she'll do an episode on that 1 alone.

[@kseniiab5733]

After being diagnosed with ADHD 2 years ago (at the age of 30), I’m still in the process of learning and understanding my condition properly. And this video (as of course so many others on your channel) just very quickly and shortly explained most of my struggles with “being an adult”. I’m still shocked every time things that I’ve always been viewing as flaws of my character (“laziness”, lack of self-control and self-discipline etc.) turn out to be ADHD symptoms and not facts confirming that I’m a useless human being 🤷‍♀️ Also, I’m definitely having a “bad brain day” due to a lack of sleep, since I’ve binge watched “How to ADHD” videos till 3 am last night 😅😅

[@viviennecarty2418]

Can relate 🙂

[@victoriagolden4233]

My parents said I didn’t get things done because I was lazy or I didn’t care. Learning about executive dysfunction (as it relates to autism) has explained and helped so much. It’s great to replace guilt with strategies for success.

[@Grifta]

My job needs me to fill in a daily timesheet, but if I leave it until the end of the day then it just grinds my life to a halt. I did the things and moved the project forward, but it just always seems impossible to remember what I did or how long it took afterwards.

[@RetepElpmet]

Similar situation with my job. I ended up just writing everything down but then I also started using my phone to take pictures of the time (from a computer screen, time clock, whatever) so I could narrow down exactly what time I was starting and stopping a task. It helped with jogging my memory.

[@susanzoeckler4926]

It still surprises me (years after diagnosis) when the seemingly simplest things are not so simple for ME! There's a little five-year-old inside who stomps her feet & has a mini-tantrum because "It's not fair!" Good luck to you! Trust Miss Jessica -- she's almost always right.

[@510amy5]

@@susanzoeckler4926 I have issues with this! I really struggle with change sometimes and then when I haven't slept well and have had a hard day someone at work comes up to me saying hey we are changing this small thing and my whole brain just throws a fit. I struggle to remain calm until the convo is finished before I send my husband angry texts lol. The worst part is when I know it's an unreasonable reaction and part of my brain is saying whoa chill it's no big deal but most of my brain is just screaming incoherently -_-

[@susanzoeckler4926]

@@510amy5 Yup. SO familiar! It sounds like you have an understanding husband -- me too & it helps a lot

[@Dancestar1981]

@@RetepElpmet oh god yes working memory issues but once the information is transferred to long term memory it’s easier to recall it

[@reinorivers854]

This channel is bringing me sooo much peace. Ive wanted answers to my ADHD for YEARS!! This makes sooo much more sense.

[@mushymarz2341]

i love these videos as i may have adhd but got Diagnosed with anxiety keep it up

[@amritas-edits]

the same thing happened to me too originally

[@yourfriendlyneighborhoodsaiyan]

I will say that as a person that has ADHD, The immaturity side of ADHD goes away for most individuals once they reach mid teens and especially Adulthood. I forgot the precise age where the brain stops growing, but I do know for a fact it stops growing in your teens, which would explain why ADHD gets significantly less severe. And a kind note: Impairment doesn't mean you cannot be smart. in fact, you can become smarter than people that have no learning disabilities.

[@dane.dagreat]

Thank you for posting this! I am still struggling but these vids help. GOD Bless and keep going.

[@saitamablackgoku2889]

This channel really has helped me with my adhd I swear I be telling my mom this and she just thinks I’m using my adhd for excuses for things normal people can’t understand what we go through 😭

[@viviennecarty2418]

So true

[@mistyarcher802]

As an ADHD mom trying to navigate raising an ADHD child, my life is sometimes a literal circus 😅 These videos help me in a lot of ways, for myself and my kiddo! Thanks for making them and keep up the great work!! 💕

[@maryannryan9423]

Great video! When I feel that general blankness that comes over me when I get mentally paralyzed, which is at least once a day, this is where I now come to get unstuck.

[@user-iw4lj6vg6o]

Some teachers have mastered the art of making homework questions that you won’t find answers from any of the course materials or even from google, the amount of executive functioning needed to answer decently and on time.. haven’t seen 👀

[@leumasecir9369]

Your honesty one of my biggest heros. Your content has changed my life Keep up the amazing work. -Lummy

[@dorkyderpterio8649]

, I've put off so many chores, work and essential tasks and this explains it so much 🥺

[@Everin04]

Thank you. Been wanting to talk to social worker and nurse colleagues so we can be more compassionate and more helpful :) Been looking for a short high quality video like this

[@laurenink8953]

I can’t wait to see you go more in depth on this! 💕💕💕 I love your work so much!!!

[@HowtoADHD]

Oh yay! Good! The video I'm writing now is going to be more about working memory :)

[@whatisahandle221]

@@HowtoADHD - Could you include some of the source citations for where you get your latest research? (I’m reading a book from 2011 of Dr. Barkley’s on how no one agreed-or properly measured-executive function, but I’m not quite sure where his working theories are these days.)

[@redhotredhead101]

This makes so much sense now. I was diagnosed with ADHD 22 years ago- I just got fired from a job due to my issues with executive functioning! I’m super bubbly and energetic, so I’m really good with people, but when I was told to do something, I would either immediately forget what I was told, or only remember a portion of it. So when I had to deliver, the final product would be missing key items. I would also have so much trouble with not forgetting things while trying to juggle multiple tasks! It’s so frustrating, because I would try SO hard, and it seemed like no one else was having these issues but me!

[@briansforzo2607]

This is the best explanation of EF I've seen! Thank you!

[@staceywashere9]

Yup. 💯. I research endlessly on what to do next, gathering evidence, making decisions, and then 💥. I can't move on to the next obvious steps. Thank you for the knowledge!

[@pnut9995]

I needed this today. Realized I was out of my ADHD meds last night. UGGGGG! #BadBrainDay!

[@susanzoeckler4926]

Been there. Very UGGG!

[@BloomzMember]

I'm watching 2 yrs after original post ... and crying. Releasing. 😪 Thank you for making this channel and these videos. It's helping me better understand my late-in-life ADHD diagnosis, helping me resolve guilt and shame, helping me find ways to help myself going forward. 🕊✌️🦋

[@gregofthedump]

I'm over fifty, and it's only this month that I've come to believe that I may have ADHD. Although I've always found it difficult to carry out tasks, it's actually becoming harder to do things as i get older.

[@tolstoy21]

Talk to a therapist. I went through this in my 40s. I found life just gets harder and the complications intensify as you get older and don’t seek treatment. That you posted this comment makes me believe you have some reason to think you have a problem that needs working out that you’ve been unable to overcome yourself. I delayed seeking help for my whole life, knowing as far back as my teens something was off. I always knew I wasn’t like other people. Didn’t think like them. Didn’t act like them. Didn’t understand them. Still felt like the child in the room up into my 40s despite being very successful at what I do. Didn’t realize I had ADHD until I had a kid who is classic hyperactive / dyslexic. Learning about ADHD through him made me realize ‘holy sh*t! the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

[@Dancestar1981]

I have heard that female hormones can make ADHD worse at different life stages too

[@xdperrinette]

@@Dancestar1981 Oh non please...

[@SweetStuffOnMonarchLane]

I was diagnosed at 48 and am 52 now. Yes, it does get harder. Medication helps A LOT with focus and motivation for me... not so much with the memory issues... but, still so glad I was lucky enough to be diagnosed as it can be difficult, especially when you're older. Don't waste anymore time... get tested and diagnosed friend! You'll be so glad you did!

[@ivanarbanas6990]

@@SweetStuffOnMonarchLane Hello from Croatia, I have adult ADD and use medication Cocerta, it helps me a lot, in fact it changed my life.., it was extremly hard to live without treatment.. 😉

[@limalicious]

I wanted to tell you that I set up an "inbox" in each room of the house where I am allowed to place miscellaneous items back in January. I haven't lost anything for more than an hour since then because using the boxes is becoming habit and I can check them!

[@user-hb4zz4gh5e]

This channel is honestly such a blessing😭

[@strongpowerty9377]

Every episode i'm once again amazed at how on-point the animations are!! The cognitive processes chart? Genius! How have i never thought about like that

[@dougandcandacebishop7259]

So clear & helpful. Been watching your vlog for about 4 yrs since our son was diagnosed w/ADHD. Thank you SO MUCH! We've now been introducing him to your channel so he can find ways we can help him and he can feel better about dealing with life. Many blessings to you & your team!

[@tamberjune]

Thank you for this video! I keep trying to explain these things to my family and doctors and all the things. No prioritization here... 🤷 Working on it daily!

[@juliegoggans8303]

This has been a very helpful video! Does anyone know what Cognative Flexibility is? How is it different than Set Shifting? Timestamp 2:08 to 2:12 there is a diagram that shows different aspects of executive function. 1. Working memory 2. Set shifting 3. Delay Aversion 4. Cognitive flexibility 5. Response Inhibition Time stamp 0:48 to 1:07 explains the processes that go into Excutive Function and describes 4 of them but not Cognative Flexibility. Once again, great video! Very helpful!

[@jcandnp]

Great video. Such an important topic to talk about at this moment in human history. Although Barkley is a great source of information, I would highly recommend Peg Dawson, the educational psychologist, who frames the executive functioning picture more in terms of executive SKILLS, and then goes DEEP into the treasure trove of strategies to help kids (and anyone) develop those skills.

[@emilyharkness9685]

Here's a tip! Voice typing! I've still got tons of issues with executive processing, but found that voice typing helps. If I've got an assignment where I know the answer and just need to type it out but don't want to do that, phones and google docs tend to have the option for voice typing. It's a great way to get started and is much more interesting then regularly writing stuff out.

[@thelifedyslexic]

My executive function stopped my watching this video until I had finished work for the day. Good job, delaying gratification brain.

[@susanzoeckler4926]

Sounds so easy. But it's not. Not when you have to remind yourself to remember not to forget. Bravo!

[@Bozeman42]

I... watched this video instead of getting ready for work. It is past time to take my ADHD meds!

[@juliaa__.]

literally every time i'm having a SUPER bad adhd day jess ends up posting a video. Life's good!

[@benjaminlamptey1867]

Imho this is the hardest part to deal with when it comes to having ADHD. Cos we live in a world where the ExecFunct is an absolute necessity.

[@benjaminlamptey1867]

(In my honest opinion)

[@skittybug6937]

I found and subscribed to your channel not too long after my own ADHD diagnosis a couple of weeks ago and honestly? Binging your videos in favour of uni work is the kind of irony I'm here for. It helps that you are absolutely goals.

[@brontesaurusrex7235]

Hey! I just found your channel yesterday. I started watching because I've had many questions about my own brain since seeing those "things you didn't know were symptoms of ADHD" memes. Whatever the answer to that turns out to be for me, I'm also an elementary school teacher and your videos have given me a lot to think about when it comes to giving my students the supports they need to be and feel successful. Thank you!

[@jasonsalazar5217]

thanks for this video. I just learned from my partner about executive function. As someone new, I'm appreciative to your vids. It minimizes misunderstanding with my partner.

[@superfluityme]

The analogy should have been having to build a ramp for my access whilst being in the wheelchair.

[@annafutch5842]

So so so so so so glad to have found your channel. I am one of those parents that figured out that I have adhd whilst my kid was being diagnosed. I am relating to your videos so much and already it’s made such a positive impact 😊

[@Jognt]

"You know how you sometimes do something?" "...yeah?" "Well, turns out that's actually a two-part thing, deciding to do it and actually doing it."

[@mariamf.6773]

Wow 30% delayed! This video is so empowering. I just want to show it to everyone so they could get a glimpse at why some things are so hard did me.

[@nimit9575]

Diagnosed with ADHD a couple of weeks back. While it helps me connect the dots and gain self-acceptance, I find myself really impatient with developing healthy habits and better EF. Could you please talk about how ADHDers can better deal with impatience around the new habits/ treatment they are working with? Thanks

[@TheBaumcm]

Imoatience, along with the dopamine seeking need for novelty, can often derail habit forming. She’s made a bunch of great videos on motivation, habits and maintaining it long enough to see benefits that might help. Maybe even look into her videos about rewards since long term goals and benefits are often too far away to serve as motivation. She has said ADHD is very now or not now. Anything you can do to focus on bringing not now to now would help, I would imagine.

[@nebularain3338]

"Being an adult" is just shorthand for "Behave neurotypically". I don't want special treatment, but I do want to be accommodated.

[@andrew4635]

Really looking forward to the rest of the executive function videos! I’m ready to let go of a lot of guilt :p

[@fredrikfarkas]

You are so important! These bite sized videos is just about what i can consume on the fly when i usually discover you put up a new one. Then it lingers in my head trough the day, i end up with questions and need for detail, and go for deep dives into the web when couch time comes at the end of the day. It's just perfect🙏🏻♥️✨

[@chrisbiancanello5851]

I regret this wasn’t a video that was around when I was still a kid.

[@susanzoeckler4926]

Wouldn't that have saved us a ton of grief?🙃

[@chrisbiancanello5851]

@@susanzoeckler4926 Yup

[@brainstew8922]

I just watched your TED talk, and I sat up immediately because I've never been formally diagnosed, but I go through the exact same things you mentioned. Just identifying how I'm wires is a huge deal. A hearfelt thank you from India!

[@-TSApril-]

It’s hilarious how when you were mentioning how every brain can have different impairments, I thought “What about mine I wonder?” and then I spent going back and forth maybe 10 times because I kept forgetting the meanings of each of the executive function processes. 🤦‍♀️😂 Welp- I guess I have confirmed that my working memory is *bad*

[@gingergoatptyltd7168]

Your channel has really made an impact. Please keep going.

[@amberfriend839]

Do you guys have any favorite calendar/to-do/habit apps or hacks that help you actually get things done? I’m so bad at creating that structure for myself!