On the surface, women who have successful careers, a steady income, and a stable home life appear to have it all, but appearances can be deceiving. Clinical therapist Kristen McClure sheds light on a specific group of women who may look put together on the outside but are prone to suffering from debilitating stress and burnout – high-achieving, high-masking ADHD women.
McClure, drawing on her 28 years of experience, explains that women who suffer from anxiety and ADHD are often the ones who seem to be functioning the best. However, behind closed doors, the weight of perfection crashes down on them, leading to a downward spiral of stress and burnout. Many of these women face relentless demands and expectations to fit into a neurotypical world, leading to behaviors like perfectionism and silencing themselves.
Perfectionism, as McClure points out, stems from low self-esteem and feelings of shame. Women with ADHD strive for perfection to assuage their fear of failure and meet the same standards as their neurotypical peers. However, this pursuit of perfection often sets unrealistic goals and expectations, ultimately causing additional stress and exhaustion when they inevitably fall short.
The experiences shared by TikTok users who suffer from ADHD confirm McClure’s observations. The road to diagnosis is often long and challenging, and many high-achieving individuals reach a breaking point and experience burnout. The exhaustion is palpable, and their ability to work full-time or maintain their previous levels of achievement may become compromised.
Not only do women with ADHD often neglect their mental health while juggling multiple responsibilities, but they also struggle to embrace the idea of slowing down or taking a break. There is a common misconception that slowing down equates to laziness or unproductivity. However, taking regular breaks is essential for maintaining clarity, overall wellness, and preventing burnout.
Looking ahead, these insights into the experiences of ADHD women can highlight potential future trends and implications. As awareness grows, it is crucial for society to acknowledge the unique challenges faced by these individuals and offer support systems that cater to their needs. Employers and institutions can implement initiatives that encourage self-care, prioritize mental health, and provide resources for managing stress and burnout.
Moreover, this understanding of ADHD and its impact on women’s lives may lead to changes in education systems, healthcare services, and workplace environments. It is essential for educators and healthcare professionals to recognize the signs of ADHD in women and provide appropriate support and accommodations. Additionally, workplaces can become more inclusive by fostering an environment that encourages open dialogue, flexibility, and understanding of individuals with ADHD.
As for individuals who have ADHD, it is crucial to give themselves grace and prioritize self-care. Slowing down or taking breaks is not a sign of failure, but rather a means of preserving mental well-being. Embracing self-compassion and seeking support from friends, family, or therapy can make a significant difference in managing stress and avoiding burnout.
In conclusion, the experiences of high-achieving, high-masking ADHD women highlight the stark reality behind the facade of success. Their struggles with stress and burnout underscore the need for greater awareness, support, and accommodations. By recognizing the unique challenges faced by these individuals and implementing changes in various sectors, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society that helps individuals with ADHD thrive.