How Dopamine Affects Learning and Motivation in ADHD Brains

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Ever wondered what Dopamine was and how exactly it affects our brain? In this episode, we explore the wonderful world of dopamine and how it can affect our motivation and even our ability to learn!
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Resource Links for "How Dopamine Affects Learning and Motivation":
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Research Provided By: Farah Mahmud & Dr. Patrick LaCount
Additional links:
mhmatters.com/...

[@dailydoseofmedicinee]

In addition to our mood, dopamine also affects movement, memory, and focus👍

[@HowtoADHD]

excellent tl;dr :)

[@delanimurray8930]

I’ll m m m xpzggno dixnspryrdyydqlmxc. N n ncndoi heh b brbdfhncchuo Utter. Macie and

[@phoenax7]

@@delanimurray8930 R/Ihadastroke

[@randomone8811]

@@HowtoADHD NOOO CUZ THIS IS ME ASKASDFJASKLFSA

[@dolphone6748]

When I'm bored in school, everything is a blur, I can barely remember anything

[@ChanDeereGreen]

I'm 55 years old, and this is the first time anyone has ever used the phrase "trouble sustaining effort toward long term goals" without pairing it with the descriptor "lazy." I've been diagnosed with ADHD since I was 40, but there is still so much I don't understand about why I struggle with things other people seem to find easy.

[@HowtoADHD]

Yep! It's not lazy. ADHDers often work harder than their neurotypical peers! And we're great in a crisis. It's sustaining motivation toward *long term* goals that our brain isn't naturally built for.

[@vickivanyo7222]

Ja I am 55 also and very much struggle with long term anything... I guess I am I just meant to live in the present moment and stop worrying about everything. I was born to be present not off in the future a.stressed... Recently I started meditating and it has made a huge difference in the day to day life. I can actually not feel stuck all the time...

[@mojomike]

@@HowtoADHD have a cyclist get hit by a car in front of me and i just do what has to be done to stop the traffic and make sure they are ok and that 911 gets called but laundry and other normal routines? those are huge hurdles!!

[@simonmichelmore5031]

Something that has helped me a lot with the feelings of guilt about laziness that come from adhd+society is recognising that people who are *actually* lazy are intentionally lazy and they don’t care. Lazy people don’t feel bad about being lazy. We do. We’re not lazy, we’re impaired. And the fact that we’re here in this comment section actually trying to do something about it… that’s gotta be the opposite of lazy!

[@3lmodfz]

I don't even have long term goals, that's way too much effort. I just go with the flow and it drives my bf nuts, he doesn't understand how I have no goals, or plans. I know full well that I won't achieve long term goals, so why make them.

[@joegibson671]

I had my dad's answer that "ADD isn't a real thing!" locked in my head for about the last 30 years. I found your channel at the very end of August. I've watched so many of your videos and a few other channel's and this is the first time in my life that I've felt like someone knows what it's like to be me. Thank you.

[@suec8179]

You are not alone! 😁

[@jeffreysherman8224]

😭😭😭 That comment hits home. I'm sorry you had to go through that.

[@themanbehindthebird121]

I was diagnosed with add adhd depression and ptsd at 16. My pops said man up p****. Whatre u depressed about? Youve never even experienced depression! Ill give you something to be depressed about.

[@cassiedickinson2607]

@@themanbehindthebird121 that sucks! I am sorry that you went through that :(

[@steph0xGx]

I was you over a year ago. Got my diagnosis, settling on meds nsife has changed. Welcome to the tribe xx

[@droidwaller7420]

"Hello brains!" -*Dopamine intensifies* -

[@allisonbrownlee]

This is so accurate. Who'd have thought that feeling known would give such a hit of feel good happy?

[@pongop]

Also the music! =)

[@EricRedbear]

Is it weird that I feel the same way when my favorite true-crime channel guy drops a video??

[@codykrueger796]

@@pongop yes I was just gonna say that

[@emilyloucks5907]

SAAAAAAME

[@historiansrevolt4333]

"Brain smoothy" is actually an amazing way to describe what's going on up there. Same ingredients for everyone, but the proportions are different.

[@HowtoADHD]

Good point!

[@maxvahling3832]

As opposed to a brain salad which is relatively easy to figure out

[@cwf1138]

my brain feels like a smoothie most of the morning at work if I don't have an actual issue to fix (IT support)

[@YumLemmingKebabs]

Ugh now I want a smoothy.

[@sandivernay6569]

Nailed it!!!

[@hannahk4356]

SoI’m a neuroscientist with adhd that studies the effects of dopamine with motivation and reward processing and I just wanted to say that you did a really good job explaining it! Accurate but easily explained :)

[@DonnaMcMasterRiver]

I trust this channel and often recommend it and really appreciate that Jessica always includes references in her description. It’s good to hear someone who actually knows something confirming her accuracy. 👍

[@Helen-rm3ng]

I loved this explanation, that it gets "nommed" (?) up by the brain, I've never really understood what reuptake was!

[@VrejHAI]

Do you think people with adhd are more prone to becoming addicted?

[@jeffevio]

​@@VrejHAIMy understanding of the research (and first hand experience) is an unequivocal resounding yes.

[@CyrusDastoor]

Thoughts on Modafinil please?

[@supervert1491]

I like the part where you said “if you don’t make your own, store bought is fine”. Makes me feel a little better about actually having to take mine. Thanks!

[@marlensalazar1061]

Does it work for you?

[@ht7cs]

Gosh. Me too! I feel like I'm being treated like a criminal every time I request my prescription renewal.

[@mikeslater5483]

@@marlensalazar1061 I'm still in my first week of medication after being diagnosed and, while I'm still learning what dosage is correct for me, "store bought" is a game changer. Before, something as little as a work email asking a simple question could destroy my train of thought and lead to a spiral of unproductivity. Now I'm able to handle everyday mild interruptions with almost no loss of focus or productivity.

[@andieluke1366]

Isn't it brilliant? Am so glad she brought it up again. It was a quote from a commenter in one of her videos, and soooo many people felt validated by that comment.

[@janeldavis905]

Anytime I feel bad about myself for needing my meds, I remind myself that I need my meds like someone with myopia needs their prescription glasses. Have you ever heard of someone stumbling through life half-blind because they feel like they _shouldn't_ need their glasses? Of course not! That would be ridiculous. We recognize that it's not a personal failing on their part that they need glasses to correct their vision, even if there are people out there with perfect vision who don't need them.

[@averycockburn31]

One unexpected positive side effect of ADHD meds was I no longer had frequent sugar cravings. I still enjoy sugar--who doesn't?--but I stopped needing it like air to breathe. I assume this was due to increased dopamine (or increased access to dopamine).

[@natassiatavares4568]

Yesssss this was one of the first things I noticed. Eating only when I’m hungry, not having cravings every half hour. And to imagine that some people just function like this.

[@l-shwerpy-l8748]

Good job

[@W0ndaze]

Wow...okay...that's something that I didn't know🥲😁

[@Shadowsofinkprojects]

The one I didn't expect was coffee working the way everyone always said coffee was supposed to.

[@madelynndodds]

This. I like this so much.

[@becciKeks]

I had a session with my therapist and told her that I suspect that I have ADHD. I was so nervous, because I constantly switch between "you're just lazy and search for an excuse to your behaviour" and "no, your thoughts are valid and this is real". But she told me that I could have ADHD with my problems and although she can't diagnose me she encouraged me to look further into it. And your videos help so much! Thank you

[@justme-qd6qb]

Wow good job for gathering the courage to bring it up, I know it can be so scary with the self invalidation, good luck with your journey!

[@MituDjakarian]

Very similar thing happened to me! My therapist was very interested because she suspects there's something more than depression/anxiety, but hadn't found what yet. So now we're exploring this possibility together and we'll see where it takes us. Good luck to us both! :)

[@maryhall4232]

why couldnt you be diagnosed by your therapist? l ask only because lm feeling bad about seeing the symptoms in myself and as well as OCPD and she wont add them to the treatment work, talk or verify even though l have lifetime examples of the symptoms to provide her? Do l need another office, a higher level professional, and move away this practice? After 4 years l feel a balance in my meds to stop the overstim, but l want to be officially diagnosed for my disability filings.

[@angelina-aisha]

omg me too!! im in the process of getting assessed, best of luck

[@carpdog42]

I don't get the psychiatrist vs therapist thing. It seems like one profession that is utterly useless when split into two. I actually setup an evaluation with a therapist because I am seeking ADHD diagnosis, now I am wondering why I even bothered.

[@0Gumpy0]

It's funny because I knew the gist of this video before, but I love hearing it again (and in more detail). It helps me understand myself, especially because at times I've felt like I might not actually have adhd and I'm just lazy and take stimulants to overcome that. But that's ridiculous. Also - screw commenting for the algorithm. I comment for your dopamine now.

[@HowtoADHD]

Awwwwww! Thanks for the dopamine :D

[@barbarateresarhiannonsreal1756]

HA! Please like, share, subscribe & COMMENT for the DOPAMINE! This awesome!

[@ADHDLove2020]

I love - I comment for your dopamine now. That is awesome!

[@andieluke1366]

That last sentence made me smile so big! :D

[@ThatOneLadyOverHere]

Just some more motivational thoughts/logic to work with what you said. Just thoughts I had, might help, might not, good luck! Stimulants wouldn't help a neurotypical brain, so it isn't made up. 😁 But also knowing you have ADHD isn't an excuse for bad behavior, it's a reason to forgive yourself and look for another way to do things when the way you are doing it isn't working. If an animal or child isn't doing what you want you don't only punish them, you also bribe them. Our brains have enough negative consequences it's time to start bribing and working with it rather than against it, balance out the punishment and reward system.

[@TheXynariz]

I'm still looking into being diagnosed for myself, but whether or not I actually *do* have ADHD, your videos still help me understand myself (and others) better. THANK YOU for this well-thought-out, informative, and also entertaining educational material!

[@HowtoADHD]

Aw thanks!! Happy you're here either way :)

[@92RKID]

@@HowtoADHD Your sense of humor has me literally LOL-ing. The jokes are spot on. It is amazing how much my job is actually suited for me. And that my supervisor who had been promoted to Coach, seems to get it, in letting me figure it out without being all over my case. She has weird ways of indicating that she trusts me. Like making me her messenger for the rest of the team when she wants everyone up front. She did one time tell me that I annoy her every day. The feeling was mutual at that time. Now I actually see and appreciate how much she's doing for me. And this is Walmart we are talking about here. This being my 4th job. I work as a maintenance person.

[@edwardp-s8868]

@@92RKID Lovely story. Glad you are supported.

[@ADHDLove2020]

Her videos have been a turning point for me as I was going through the original path with my children. I would send these videos to my children's teachers so they know there were reasons why my children were saying and doing the things they were doing. It was the beginning of changing my life!! No Joke!

[@emmyygabriella]

This is such a great explanation!! I was trying to find the words to explain to my fiancé what happened last week. He proposed the weekend before and i was over the moon! I experienced consistent rushes of dopamine throughout the amazing weekend he planned for us. As soon as the trip was over and i had to return to my normal routine, i felt so unmotivated. I couldn’t get myself to do anything extra, could only handle the essential tasks. All of that being said, this video was right on time! 🙌🏾🧠

[@HowtoADHD]

Glad it was helpful! Congrats on your engagement :)

[@emmyygabriella]

Thank you! ❤️

[@douglasphelan3008]

My 1st thought was "Ya, I get that motivation progression and decline." Then I'm like "you just got engaged!" Congrats.

[@PichuElric]

@@douglasphelan3008 Lmao I noticed that late too XD Congratulations on your engagement Emerald!

[@cloudyangie5468]

THISSSSSS. Congratulations btw! Me and my partner are in school right now (him in grad school, im finishing my undergrad) and I live on campus and he lives off like 10 mins away. Every weekend i can finally see him but before I know it its sunday and we both have to prepare for the week again and I have to come back to my dorm and it leaves me feeling so unmotivated. Im so glad im not the only one

[@chestersnap]

The dopamine issues explain so much about my life. When my mom would get on me about about my procrastination she'd always say stuff like "but it feels good to get things done" and yeah. It does. It does not feel good to do it, though, and so what she said never really meant anything to me. This also explains why I struggle so much to not go for immediate rewards. One of the ways to trick yourself into doing things is to offer yourself a reward at the end of the task. But if there's nothing stopping me from having it now, why would I not just have it now? And suddenly I understand why it might work for other people I really need that ADHD testing place to contact me back

[@VioletEmerald]

I've also learned that rewards aren't long-term motivating for most people though, the doing of the task has to be intrinsically motivating for everyone...

[@celisev6635]

I feel that... people always say to me that the reward or finished product is worth the struggle to start doing things, but I live in the here and now and knowing what the outcome is doesnt motivate me to do it, even if its something I really wantxD and with the reward yourself after I got the same thing I cant wait if I can get it right now...

[@Metqa]

Such a relevant comment. I am an adult. I can provide myself with what I need and want. I also have some modicum of self control, so I have also denied myself if things I want, for long periods of time ( e.g. Can't play Walking Dead: 2nd Season till the living room is clean. ... 2 years later...) Even if its something I know I like being motivated can be hard. Sticker charts work well for me because stickers are and impulse buy thing for me. Also 15 minute limits with an audible alarm break up long arduous tasks. On KZbin, there is a Mindfulness meditation channel that plays a deep gong every 30 min for 8 hours. When I was in the office, this was the only way to get me to get up from my desk when I was hyper focusing and take a stretch. The gong sound is SO REWARDING and says to me " You've been working hard, take a deep breath, stretch, drink some water and feel good for a moment. It'll be back in 30 min..." Since I can't make time pass faster, the timed meditation gongs are a reward I can't just consume instantly but will come regularly. And sticking to my task means I can display one of my stickers on my calendar or in my journal, or just on a chart I just drew up for this specific task.

[@lunesterv5802]

I was diagnosed as a kid (very young) and they tried Ritalin once with one dosage and then called it quits. I spent my entire life struggling hard bouncing between diagnoses always convinced that something far worse was wrong with me. I failed out of college, struggled to keep jobs, couldn't maintain a relationship, and just fell apart. It hasn't been until the past six years that I have finally felt like life is coming together. I heavily advocated to be rediagnosed a couple of years ago (that is another mess) and am now on meds. I stumbled upon your channel this year and it's the first time in my life that I don't feel broken, damaged, or a mistake. Thank you for the content that you put out and for shining a light for those of us who have spent so much time in the dark.

[@laurabasola4081]

I'm so sorry you struggled so much. Your words about feeling broken, damaged or a mistake echoed my feelings exactly. I am 64 and just this year realised what was wrong with me. Before I just felt shame and blame. I hope you find something long-term to help you. Best wishes ❤

[@jezra4427]

I struggle with self-motivation more than any other ADHD trait. I can be very disciplined when it comes to my jobs and other schedules I'm obligated to follow, but I can't motivate myself using sheer will power.

[@Fernandanatac]

That’s literally me!

[@EmilyDeDakis]

Absolutely the same! Extrinsically motivated is the phrase I’ve heard for this… but also good to remember how ADD is affecting it every day

[@sketchywolfgrl9564]

Same here

[@themorenacoder]

The thing about ADHD is that it’s best managed with structure/organization. Which probably explains why I did really well in high school versus my college days 😅

[@PPCCO.]

MY LIFE!

[@thomasalvarez6576]

I've been having a hard time getting things done lately, although watching your videos always gives me some dopamine, and some motivation, because I think I'm not unable to reach my goals, if you can, I think I can too. Thank you so much for being there for us

[@HowtoADHD]

You got this!

[@bryanwarner9121]

Procrastinating on college applications due in 45 days as I watch this. And I have the lack of dopamine to blame. Such a timely video, I love it!

[@jackson-mq9vm]

YOU GOT THIS!

[@aaronmartin8027]

I knew about the difficulties with dopamine in my ADHD brain, but I had completely forgotten about dopamine reuptake. Explains part of the reason why, during the times when I feel like I've got a better "handle" on my life and life-in-general, it's when I'm keeping myself "calm" 'in the flow" or very "zen-like" and keeping in mind "haste makes waste." Mindfulness, meditation, better breathing, etc, helps keep my dopamine levels..level, and may not "overflood" my motivation on long projects I don't like which kills my spark after an hour. Also helps me keep my attention on the stuff I love doing, too.

[@jessicadaltongoode6019]

I looked at the journal and got really emotional. The sentence ‘I want a better story about my …' just hit home so hard. I’ve really struggled with motivation. This looks amazing and like it might help a lot - Thank you for the recommendation, I have a red dnd style one on the way 🙏

[@theherosjournal]

okay, we teared up reading this!

[@liebemama1429]

Hey, sorry to bother you about this but how did you get the tryout? I only find stuff where I can buy hardcover book and digital version together, but no tryout PDFs. I can't afford the whole thing yet but I wanted to at least try out the first steps 🙈

[@jessicadaltongoode6019]

@@liebemama1429 no worries! I just went to the website to have a look and there was a pop up with the first 72 pages free as a pdf when you register with your email. There’s also a couple good pictures on the product page too. I hope this helps!

[@omasid9641]

I literally cried when I found your channel yesterday. I finally understand what has been wrong with me for so long. Thank you so much!

[@feryortiz3627]

Same here, I’ve been crying every day with almost every video on this channel, I’m glad to know I’m not the only one 🥺

[@ThatOneLadyOverHere]

And the best part is that the answer is "nothing. There is nothing wrong with you."

[@ericpeterson7712]

The recent world events I feel like just a constant hole of motivation, its weird. I'm employed, have been the whole time, which is good, but also burned tf out! Love this video! I'm off today so I get to work on the book I"m writing and read/finish the latest Sarah Kuhn novel so that's good!

[@allisonbrownlee]

Yay NaNoWriMo! Good luck! You're doing great!

[@craven5328]

Me too, totally. I'm a very visual person to boot, and I've found that the past year and a half of working from home has led me to crave newness visually. As a result, I've found that of late I'm changing up my decor a ton lol...peel and stick wallpaper, new cabinet pulls, painting existing furniture a new colour...mostly inexpensive things, but just something that changes up what my eyes look at 24 hrs a day!

[@ADHDLove2020]

Good luck on your book!

[@sophiecourt5006]

I'm sending this to some of my teachers so show them how I struggle with motivation and getting started with tasks, thank you Jessica!!

[@rifz42]

getting started is a huge problem for me.

[@neveduff]

Your videos were a massive part of me figuring out what was up with my brain. I got diagnosed last year at age 20 and just got my results back for my final university assignments 🙌 through finding new methods to study and navigate my rewards systems, I went up to an A+ average in my chosen major and nothing below a B through my other papers. I just want to say thank you, because even when my family didn't believe me, having your videos meant I had someone in my corner and made me believe myself. I probably wouldn't have graduated my bachelors without them ❤🎓

[@GreenGorgeousness]

Congratulations!!!!!! That's so wonderful to hear. I want this for everyone.

[@neveduff]

@@GreenGorgeousness Thank you!!

[@Nazia642]

Congratulations! This just made me smile because it shows that we are still able to achieve greatness regardless of our mental state. It just takes a different approach. This was inspiring. Thank you for commenting it! ❤️❤️❤️

[@WildflowersCreations]

These videos are so helpful in understanding ADHD, teaching how my child's brain works to him and our family learning this together as a journey. Thank you!

[@arikm8430]

I was just trying to explain this to my BF last night. He always comments about how I have so much time, why don't I just finish my homework during my free time. It's because after my medicine wears off, my coping skills don't work as well, which means that if I use my "productive time" to study for an exam but then try to do homework after that productive time has passed, it's miserable. Unless I know that the homework is due that night, it's really emotionally taxing and time consuming to try and do homework outside of my productivity window. It sucks that it's limited to 8 hours combined time a day because if 4 hours are spent in class, that's only 4 hours to study/do homework effectively. "Effectively" means that I remember what I'm studying and I understand what the problems want me to do. Otherwise, it's like I'm not wearing my glasses. My memory shuts off, I get frustrated easily, and trying to understand textbooks, especially complex math, is hard. I envy people who can just study all day into the night and then remember things for their exams.

[@HowtoADHD]

Yes! I was having trouble with this last year and talked to my doctor -- he added a "homework pill" (a short release stimulant) I could take in the afternoon if I needed to work longer hours than my extended release meds would cover. Maybe something to ask about?

[@arikm8430]

@@HowtoADHD I already take an extended release stimulant twice a day because one pill only lasted me 4 hours 🙃 maybe my metabolism is just really high? It definitely helps me feel better, it just doesn't last as long as it is intended.

[@ugh_2729]

Well, I envy people on whom medication works and who can have glasses at least those 8 hours a day. I (for example) feel like I don't have any (I've build up tolerance on medication in just few days) and can't use it because it just makes no sense. I'm not saying "stop worrying, people have it worse", because of course your pain is valid, nor that you should aprreciate that, because nobody can tell you what you should do with it. I just think that the fact that medication works for you it's a great reason for appreciation in life. Maybe it will make you feel better if you think that "at least I have those 8 hours instead of none". I know it's hard to think this way because we would still rather be neurotypical, but besides neurotypicals there are also for example people medication-resistant. I'm sure you are smart and talented even when you can't force yourself to do your homework💕

[@TheBeatOfMyHeart89]

I've been experiencing a lot of issues and have been called lazy, forgetful, unreliable, selfish, and told that I don't care or I'm not trying hard enough. Having trouble getting an actual diagnosis because I have trouble explaining what I'm going through and when I get anxious my forgetfulness gets worse -_- . I'm feeling super defeated. I keep coming back to your videos to remind myself that there are people who understand ... So ... thank you ... I'm thankful I came across your channel.

[@remingtonfrog3170]

Similar for me, I’m 45. I try to keep a note book or something handy. It’s difficult to explain what you’re going through. When I make an odd mistake, or when you notice you’re confused, write it down. I’m trying to, and I’m bringing it to my Dr. (when I get one )🌞

[@TheBeatOfMyHeart89]

@@remingtonfrog3170 Thanks Aubrey for the helpful tip. I'll do my best.

[@jimmaloney4111]

Thank you for consistently communicating complex subjects in a way that is accessible for everyone. It's always great to learn more about the science behind ADHD. And brain smoothie is going into my vocabulary now. :)

[@HowtoADHD]

haha love that my blooper explanation is now a thing that's catching on 😆

[@legion9615]

This is why I am in so many Dnd games, I live for that dopamine hit I get when I play a fun fantasy character

[@heycrisper]

Ah, I wanted to share that I was pleased as punch when I was finally given a diagnosis last week for ADHD by my psychiatrist and the first online resource she listed for great information was your channel!! I have already been subbed for awhile and have learnt so much. Thank you for being amazing and doing what you do.

[@tinghwazintimbani2414]

I was a really smart kid in school and I had potential until ADHD caught up with me and messed up my life. For so many years I wondered what was wrong with me and then I saw a video on what was ADHD so I watched it and I got diagnosed at twelve and it started to make sense as to why this happened.

[@dsostringbean]

I was only recently diagnosed and started stimulant medication. One HUGE amazing thing that I was not expecting is the massive effect it has has on my pain levels. But it totally makes sense if dopamine has an effect on pain perception.

[@VioletEmerald]

I'm curious for more details on how this worked for you!

[@ottercuddlepuddle]

I have chronic pain and that's wild. I'm not on meds yet. Could you share more?

[@Ritsuka55]

I have been following you for around a year at this point, and In my 'abnormal' psychology class the professor showed your first TedTalk! I never actually knew your story that well and I felt like crying after because of how much I could relate to it thinking about my own childhood and adhd. Amazing videos' as usual!

[@Big_T429]

I always thought that I was just lazy and had no motivation but now I know it’s my ADHD. This channel has helped me learn so much about ADHD and how to help myself control it.

[@anna20812]

this was really helpful to understand why there’s such a frustrating lack of motivation compared to nt people, it makes me feel so incapable when i compare myself to others

[@bjvoorh2962]

I love this! I refer your channel to every person I can! I don't know what a stranger is! Ha ha. Talking about long term goals, a previous video of your "not sure what long term goals are.." I told my boss that and he laughed but said as long as you're doing your best and happy that's what matters! This video helped me alot! I work from home and it's difficult tons of distractions😒. Thanks for all your help! Wisdom and being the amazing person we all love!!

[@diceykitty2542]

Thank you for your videos. Your humanity, compassion and experiences are inspiring. I am in the process of being diagnosed. I shared your videos with my wife who was taken aback by how accurately the characteristics described me. The relationship videos also highlighted that we had figured out many coping strategies instinctively. We were lucky. I am 57 and have had a successful legal military career despite the many challenges. I learned strategies and coping mechanisms to induce hyper focus so that stuff got done but i still struggled with most long term organizational task management, procrastination, endless distractions, and a pervasive state of messiness, amongst other challenges. Not all coping mechanisms were healthy unfortunately. For example, I smoked for many years. Dopamine levels were increased and the smoking fidget helped me to focus. Sadly, It took me many years to quit and it damaged my health. Not recommended. The past two years of retirement have been a struggle because I was outside the structure and organization of the military, where there was a tyranny of the urgent over the important. Dealing with the immediate was always easier. Now I have to organize myself and it is extremely difficult and upsetting. I realized that these experiences have been with me since childhood. Thank you for helping me understand and feel less alone in terms of how I am.

[@kibatail]

I just wanna say that I've struggled with ADHD my whole life and was put on every medication you could think of as a kid until 8th grade. I've been scared to take medication because I remember being a zombie and not feeling myself but you have really made a difference. I do my best to absorb as much info you put in videos as I can even though alot slips out right after. You put so much effort into this down the line I am going to start my own ADHD help channel. I've just had my first psychiatrist appointment in years and will be working towards finding that balance you mentioned because sustaining long term goals feel impossible right now and trust me I have the drive, motivation, and determination but that really tall wall stands sturdy and I'm trying to climb it. Hopefully medication will be a latter for me. I would've never in a million years thought about trying medication again of it wasn't for you breaking down the processes of the brain and telling me it's okay.

[@emilybaum6192]

I have the inattentive type so I would daydream and not be able to start tasks- usually I’d be sleeping to avoid. I started taking medication Feb 2021. I can now clean up after myself (I see my mess), remember things better and complete small tasks. That being said, I’m now struggling to completing larger projects. If there are a lot of steps- I loose motivation and want to move to a new idea. Staying on tasks is a skill I never practiced. So medication helps, but it’s not an instant solution- working with an adhd coach/learning skills from the channel have helped me so much!!

[@jupiter1217]

The first meds they give you are the stimulant ones. If you find they don’t quite do the trick, or the side effects overwhelm the benefits, you might find that there’s an antidepressant that works. I was in a clinical trial for Trintelex and discovered it worked far better for me than the stimulant ones I tried did. Bonus is that it also helped with my anxiety. It’s a little on the pricy side and not all insurance companies will allow off label uses. There may be other brands or even a generic one that does it for you. So keep that in mind as your doctor tries to find the right medicine for you.

[@d.t.e80]

My experience is similar. I found out I had ADHD when I was around 23 or so. Tried some meds, didn’t like my experience with them, my family didn’t want me taking meds anyway, so I quit, and tried to just thug ADHD out without help. Bad idea. The past 7 years have been brutal. ADHD is no joke. But I recently got connected with an ADHD Treatment Center and got prescribed Adderall again, which I had before but only took one of them and was scared to try any more. Best decision I have made in a LONG TIME. I’m so happy I can focus and study and read for hours at a time now. I know my life is going to change for the better with this ability.

[@TheAstrogrl]

I think medication for adhd now is different and there's more options. My sister took medication as a kid and stopped because of zombie feeling. I was diagnosed as an adult and am so happy for the medication. I feel like I can actually accomplish what others can. Now, I asked for a lower dose because the first dose they had me on was too much too soon.

[@N1976DL]

ADHD, anxiety, and depression make me feel like a zombie with all the crippling brain fog. I’d love a medication that helps with that.

[@4philipp]

I’m just now learning about ADHD, but a while back (before the pandemic), I encouraged people who struggled with getting a positive start in their day to do the following: - spontaneously jump out of bed - take a deep breath - pound on your chest - and let out a aaarrrrggghhhh scream In theory it supercharges your body with energy and positivity. Kind of akin to you emotionally hulk-smashing that wall of aweful. Only you do it at the start of the day without any wall yet being there.

[@derpingywonderfullthellama961]

''its like even if we have the intellect to say that we need to do something so something good instead of bad happens, our brain does not light up and give us motivation'' I feel so understood I might cry T-T

[@pr9177]

I haven’t even watched this video, but “ALL THE DOPAMINE!” had me cracking up. You need to make a t-shirt with that graphic. *Edited to add: I watched the video. Amazing as always! Thank you!! You definitely make the world a better place.

[@thezeias91]

Hi, I've been recently diagnosed (actually, in the process of being diagnosed) and got to this channel recently by suggestion of a friend. I watched the playlist "What's ADHD anyway?" and I'm really learning a LOT! It's SO good and it's bringing a whole lot of emotions. This channel is like, a really warm and cosy hug that also gives me a lot of knowledge! A KNOWLEDGE HUG! THANK YOU!!!

[@Malcolmdeeb]

I think I’ve liked nearly every comment on this video, because every one of them sounds like something I would say. I want to hug everyone on here and tell them it’s not their fault that they are the way they are. ADHD robbed me of who I was “supposed” to and wanted to be, and t he life I could have had. At 50, I still don’t have it “under control”.

[@random_programmer]

I am so grateful for this channel. I finally did the adult thing and went to a doc. His exact quote? "I don't know how you got through school." My response? "Because I actually LIKED school." This exchange still makes me laugh thinking on it. He prescribed stimulants, and the difference it made! I'm not constantly fighting my brain so much anymore; it's a relief. I can finally take that deep breath and just DO my work.

[@shiniangie]

Hi, I am dropping this comment here to thank you. This channel made me question myself on whether or not I might have ADHD and I got out and got diagnosed at 31. I will be on a non-medication treatment and for the first time in a long time feel hopeful and seen!!! Thank you for making ADHD interesting and comprehensive enough, so I could understand it and confirm ^^

[@sweetpeabee4983]

Man, I never really thought about it before, but yeah! Being on medication isn't so much a quick fix as a longer term aid to retraining the brain to react like, _properly_ to stuff? Especially after a long time of being unmedicated and ignorant of that fact. Dang, that's some helpful insight right there -- thanks Jessica and co!

[@lyndas232]

Yes! This..

[@VioletEmerald]

Thank you so so much for this.

[@lalocura1828]

I get dopamine hits just watching a total stranger with adhd telling me things about myself that I never knew and how much it actually makes sense. I cry too ❤😭

[@missshelley7986]

Jess you are amazing, this is exactly the information/inspiration I needed today! Have a wonderful week!

[@ivychatelain]

I love you channel! I have ADHD and Autism and your channel was a life changer for me. I found it when I felt at my lowest and most misunderstood, it’s been so frustrating feeling like I couldn’t communicate because I couldn’t express what I didn’t understand - your channel has made me feel so understood while also teaching me about my brain in a way that I can understand and relay to others 🙏🏼✨ thank you for this you’re really helping so many

[@Rasnashri]

I totally get it! Looking at the number of drawings and fanfiction I have incomplete rn, and the ideas I have but don't develop on cuz of the lack of motivation breaks my heart cuz I really want to finish it but I can't bring myself to. Doesn't help the double guilt when I start something and leave it unfinished when my fixation is gone 😭

[@Ocker3]

I have a diagnosis appointment in Feb (earliest I could get), mentioned it to a friend of mine and he put his hands on my shoulders and said "as someone diagnosed with ADHD, Yes!!!"

[@jefferylittleton1005]

I always get excited for your videos! Thanks for being so helpful.

[@jessvinnicombe9695]

I’m so glad you touched on the neural pathways involved in ADHD - thank you!! You’re great at simplifying complex ideas and language so that it can be understood by (and appeal to) a broad audience :D

[@roberthudson9923]

I was diagnosed with adhd when I was 8 in 1993. I was on medication from then (3rd grade) till I graduated high-school (2003) I chose to come off meds on my own. Life has been very challenging but I never thought about my adhd much until I made enough mistakes...so here I am 36 yrs old and my doctor suggested I go back on meds. Took my first dosage today.....I never should have come off....all things considered, I did well for myself....but I think the last 18 years could have been a lot easier....wish me luck....I'm glad you have made this channel....I wish something like this was available to me when I was growing up and frustrated all the time

[@edwardp-s8868]

Great video. So clear and concise. Perfect for my ADHD brain and those of my students. Thanks again. Worth my Patreon donations just have you all keep doing these videos. 💪🧠

[@msaijay1153]

Because of finding this channel I scheduled an appointment with a PMHNP to get a diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Thanks for everything.

[@DemetriPanici]

I've been noticing lately that when I let myself get dopamine hits during workouts that I have a harder time working out without music or electronics

[@sync3471]

I don’t have enough dopamine to work out in the first place

[@IzzySarru]

@@sync3471 It's hard. I've been super stressed out lately and tried getting back to the gym...I just...couldn't muster any motivation while there. Felt like I had no real strength in my limbs. Didn't even get that nice feeling after I was done. Very disappointing.

[@centralflife891]

I cant workout well enough without music. The only way I don’t get discouraged is looking at my progress pics. And flexing in my mirror lol

[@raapyna8544]

Listening to music helps me get motivated to go out on a walk/run.

[@DonnaMcMasterRiver]

I also have found that listening to my favorite music while I work at the computer helps keep my spirits (and presumably my dopamine levels) up. This has been especially true working from home the past two years.

[@Richard-Tipper-Davies7220]

I live in the UK 🇬🇧 and life's been a struggle I'm 34 now and I asked my mum why am I like I am unintentionally getting in trouble with jobs, friends and family I can't ever keep focus always going to the next thing, very emotional taking everything to heart and getting upset or exploding with rage in a split second She said that's because you were diagnosed ADD and your older brother was ADHD I asked my Dad he said oh you grew out of it? (Mum and Dad are divorced) I'm so happy to see I'm not alone. I have asked my doctor for my medical records to find out exactly when I was diagnosed and to seek help now. Great channel 👏 👍

[@cinderblockstudios]

I had a mentor in college that for my program would offer long-term rewards for the end of the semester. It worked for other students, but not for me. Frustrating that I only know why in retrospect, back then I was just "not a good student."

[@sonyabruns]

Girl, I love you! You are so fun and honest about what it's like to be an ADHD brain. You've helped me a lot by talking about the the things that help you do better and I just love watching you! Keep it up!

[@dovebair]

"Where that dopamine is taken back out of your brain smoothie". 👏 Excellent! I love how your brain works! "Cocktail" and "smoothie" are very categorically close to each other! I knew EXACTLY what you meant! Thanks for another helpful and heart forward video ❤

[@ccaatttiraffe]

I am grateful for your channel! I started to question whether I had ADHD about a month ago, and am really fortunate that my doctor and counsellor were receptive and supportive. I started stimulant medication yesterday, and I finally have the motivation to write my master's thesis and hopefully graduate in a few months 🥳 I think you mentioned in one of your older videos how when you first took meds your brain was clear - I can fully relate to that! It's amazing having the chatter stop for once.

[@zfhggzz]

I’m so glad you’re one of us. You’re an inspiration 🙏🏼❤️

[@katetoolate234]

Ooh great explanation! I feel like what I did know of dopamine already was nicely elaborated on, so I appreciate that!

[@HowtoADHD]

yay, good to hear! Was surprisingly challenging to explain, glad it worked :)

[@VioletEmerald]

@@HowtoADHD thank you so much for your hard work on this! It was so much clearer than so much of what I've come across so far.

[@1unlucky4leafclover]

i love how she makes the videos short and quick and bright- it rerally helps keep my attention

[@FINGERB4NGING]

This video gives me the dopamine to get through my day of work! Will also check out the hero’s journey journal looks so fun and I can really see how it’s ADHD friendly! Super excited to check it out

[@HowtoADHD]

Yay! It's SO FREAKING COOL. Dopamine just from opening it :)

[@Michaelk30]

Thank you for making all the good videos and I love your fish Song i’m really glad that you were able to continue making videos and also I am glad to be a part of helping you make videos as a Patreon supporter

[@ancientplayer3409]

Very wise for making this content very easy to watch ( someone with ADHD) great editing, didn’t get distracted. Thanks

[@Kaninjäveln]

I've been called lazy, wasted potential, poor listener, spaz, roller-coaster (in terms of mood) and many other synonyms throughout my entire life (24). Then I found this channel and my understanding of my flaws has increased tremendously. I just wish I would've found it sooner.

[@susanzoeckler4926]

Informative and entertaining as always! Anytime I feel alone in ADHDLand, I can tune into your channel! Thank you for all your hard work.

[@pkrippr3]

This is a great video, thank you for helping me better understand what’s going on in my brain!

[@shofisstar]

Not me about to buy that journal knowing I have 3 unused ones at home because buying journals gives me dopamine but not enough to actually use them 😂

[@heladamama92]

Has anyone ever looked at the relationship between systemic candidiasis and adhd? Many people talk about diet and reducing sugar. Through the years, different holistic healers, through different diagnostic techniques have diagnosed me with systemic candidiasis. I'm struggling to self medicate using bariatric appetite suppressants. They help me so much by reducing my sugar and starch and adding a stimulant. I appreciate your advice to try over the counter dopamine, because I know that even though I'm under a physician's care, this form of coping isn't healthy. Finding your KZbin space has helped me see why I live like I do. These videos give me hope.

[@manasjoshi8079]

When i watch this channel my dopamine hits really hard ☺️

[@lukasschreiber9320]

I have Adhd since childhood. Im studying medicine right now anddd because of you I learned how to deal with the symptoms and how to approach them in the right way. The best thing is because of my study Im able to learn and understand how an Adhd brain works ( even if there is limited understanding overall). Keep going. I hope to help other people in the future on diagnosing it early so that children and adults can deal with it in the right way early. Much love :)

[@tanyabaldwin636]

I was watching your glitter video earlier this morning. It actually calmed me down so I could focus on my work! 🙂

[@HowtoADHD]

Love that!

[@meganjoho]

“Getting enough sleep helps you manage your ADHD.” Me watching this at 2am:

[@VideoCesar07]

I wish more people would pay attention to the science behind ADHD instead of dismissing it was lack of focus and motivation. The way I go about tasks is to do the unpleasant or difficult ones first and the ones I really like last so I have something to look forward to. It's much harder to ADHD today with all the social media that is specifically designed for quick dopamine hits. I can waste endless hours browsing YT for video about things I like and only something like a more attractive task or a necessity like hunger will snap me out of it. Gonna look into that Journal, looks like fun. I installed a quest game task app on my phone to give myself something to look forward to each day as well. You should really look into making a Brain Smoothie T Shirt, I sure would like to see it. 😁 Only thing I can say about motivation is that even for normal people it can be hard, doubly so for ADHDers. I follow the suggestion Mel Robbins gave of counting back from 5 so once you hit 0 you will get up and start doing whatever it is you need to do. Only problem is that sometimes I will avoid counting back because I have already developed the habit of getting up and starting a task when I hit 0. Damn I need to learn to write shorter comments.

[@TheAstrogrl]

Lol I do the same thing. I hyper fixate on my replies.

[@VideoCesar07]

@@TheAstrogrl 😂

[@duncanbug]

KZbin is BRUTAL for me. Doing Pomodoro timers with the “breaks” being an episode of something that has an END is really helpful. Like… 40 mins study. 20 min episode rinse and repeat.

[@Justin--ze6qq]

Thank you so much for making these videos. I've had ADHD my whole life and everyone I talked to told me it wasn't real. Every aspect of my life I've tried so desperately hard to improve has improved 0-100 in the last month after starting treatment. I know there are a lot of people out there undiagnosed, that just think they have depression. They're used to suffering because it's become the normal. If you're reading this and you can't get things done until you are overwhelmed with stress, get tested for ADHD. There's a bunch of internet companies that don't cost too much. ADHD is very real and very treatable. I lost 12 years because of people spreading the wrong information, don't let it happen to you.

[@ilenastarbreeze4978]

when you said brain smoothy i totally got where you were going with it , it makes sense!

[@Inferno118899]

THANK YOU! Finally some nuance teaching on dopamine that adds some complexity and emphasises the complexity of dopamine and other neurotransmitters. Thank you so much and great job 😊

[@randljuliansawesome]

Motivation... The eternal struggle. Thanks for making this understandable for all of us! I adore your channel! Here's to 1 million! ❤️ Also, the bloopers were 👌🏻.

[@Ishmia]

I was just having this convo with my sons dad yesterday. We took our son to the doctor yesterday and the doctor said he dose have adhd we are now on the waiting list to get him some help (my son is 4) sadly the doctor said it is very rare to actualy get help so we are trying to do as much reserch we can so we can help him at home. Your videos are so helpful. They are so easy to understand and have been fantastic for me to better understand my son. Thank you for posting and I look forward to more of your videos.

[@markzeitzmann1884]

I love your content, it is very concise, informative, and engaging. Could you also consider doing video(s) on the roles of norepinephrine and serotonin in ADHD?

[@charlieshepard5802]

My store bought dopamine helped me retain more information from this video about dopamine!

[@HowtoADHD]

meta 😎

[@charlieshepard5802]

@@HowtoADHD Very meta indeed

[@lauraede7451]

OMG THAT HERO"S JOURNAL HAD MY BRAIN SO EXCITED.

[@espeed623]

“Dope-a-memes” 😂

[@Q269]

H̵̡͕͙͂͊́͐̐͝e̴̢͍͈̫̺̱̜̺̭͌̃h̷͚̋͌̆̑̾̑͒̾̿̕ ̷̨͙̭̭̣͈́̈́͂̇h̷͍̒̀́̆̌̍̚͠͝ę̵̨͖̩͕̝̰̤̃̅̏͝h̴̨̼͎̮͂͊̀̐̊̏̈̕͠ ̶͍̻̞̥͐̋͌h̸̡̙̙̮̖͉͕̞̒̉̽̎̅̇͂̕̕e̵̤̭̲̠̪̩̠͂̏̃̈͝h̴̞̤͛́́͆̑̑

[@jonathanjollimore7156]

Saving throw I do a saving throw

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

Not to mention the pacbrain.

[@dwilson518]

I recently found your channel and I must say thank you, for the 1st time in my 25 yrs of life I finally feel I'm starting to understand my brain and how adhd has had an severe impact on my life. It makes me feel more normal in a way. So thank you very much

[@Matt_Seddicia]

Thanks for this video, always clear and great, now I am curious about the 3 possible pathway scientists have found! But I will check this articles another time, I am already late!!! (bad time management combined to the immediate reward to see this video >

[@emmath5226]

"if you don't make your own, store bought is fine" - I loved it. Thank you, it's very informative, and the ending is really cool

[@mo0okayla]

brain smoothie is a great metaphor

[@halitun]

My 20 yr old son (and probably me too) have ADHD. Your Ted talk and all of these amazing KZbins have helped us better understand what he has been going through all of these years. It’s now easier to have constructive conversations. He is now adapting better and also finding his superpowers.

[@SweetStuffOnMonarchLane]

Amazing that someday they could have specific medications for specific symptoms... if they are learning the pathways this seems possible anyway. Better targeting means maybe less side effects for people, too...? Love the "sciencey" stuff Jessica, keep it coming please! 😃

[@rankfall15]

3:08 can you make a video explaining how does serotonin (and norepinephrine) affect/ affected by ADHD? It would be very informative

[@cmdranipsycho1548]

Thank you for the videos! I've learned so much from you. Looking forward to seeing what comes next, (still watching this one 😂)

[@dannicm137]

26 year old female who was only diagnosed this year. Thank you Jessica for helping me on understanding my brain. I feel less alone. Your explanations help me educate my partner and loved ones without drowning them in psych jumbles.

[@nehamaw]

I get it... Brain smoothie. Makes perfect sense.

[@hollywaller1265]

I'm in the process of trying to get diagnosed but I'm fairly sure I have ADHD so I'm taking your advice in many areas of my life. And oh my goodness it has helped so much! Just having gloves to do washing up, slippers because I don't like feeling of cold floor. Learning above motivation bridge and so many other things that I have completely forgotten right now. My whole life is better because of this channel so thank you.

[@nataliedubious5241]

Learning about dopamine =moar dopamine! Literally chirped, "ooh thank you" out loud. Brb, going down the google scholar rabbithole!

[@elizabethpotter8621]

THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO!!! THIS WORK OF YOURS HAS CHANGED MY LIFE!!! YOU HAVE WHAT I HAVE AND I AM NOT WHAT I THOUGHT I WAS.

[@mo0okayla]

Hah my roommate just tried to suggest to me long term goals being the main motivation for assignments and short term tasks..... maybe pitch that idea to my dopamine levels ma'am