Tearing Down the Wall of Awful: Insights from Brendan Mahan on ADHD
"The Wall of Awful is the emotional barriers that those of us with ADHD can easily build into from our experience with others and also our own internal experience."
Ever felt like you're hitting a wall with your ADHD? Brendan Mahan knows that feeling all too well. In this eye-opening episode of 'ADHD Focus', host Dr. David Pomeroy sits down with Mahan, an executive function coach and consultant, to discuss his innovative concept: the Wall of Awful. This metaphor represents the negative emotions and self-talk that build up and often paralyze those with ADHD, making even simple tasks feel insurmountable.
Mahan, who also has ADHD, shares his personal experiences and professional insights on how these emotional 'bricks' stack up faster for people with ADHD compared to neurotypicals. He doesn't just stop at identifying the problem; he offers five practical strategies to break through this wall, with two being particularly effective. From recognizing and managing guilt and shame to improving communication in relationships, this conversation is packed with actionable advice.
Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or someone living with ADHD, Mahan's wisdom and empathy provide a roadmap for navigating these emotional hurdles. Tune in to learn how to dismantle your own Wall of Awful and move towards a more productive, happier life.