ADHD Intrusive Thoughts: Causes, Triggers, & How to Cope

Can ADHD Cause Intrusive Thoughts?

Individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are prone to ADHD executive dysfunction, which involves difficulties with the ability to regulate thoughts, focus attention, and filter out irrelevant information. This can lead to an overactive mind and intrusive thoughts. ADHD intrusive thoughts are racing, repetitive, and unrelated to the task at hand, causing significant distress and difficulty in maintaining focus and productivity.

Here are some examples of ADHD intrusive thoughts:

• Excessively thinking about past mistakes or embarrassing moments
• Having recurring, unwanted thoughts or images that are distressing
• Difficulty letting go of negative thoughts or worries
• Jumping from one unrelated idea to another in rapid succession
• Feeling overwhelmed by a flood of ideas or thoughts that are hard to control
• Uncontrollable urge to blurt out inappropriate comments or thoughts
• Having intrusive thoughts that interfere with daily tasks or activities
• Obsessive thoughts about specific topics or themes
• Persistent worries about forgetting important tasks or obligations
• Engaging in repetitive mental checking or reassurance-seeking behaviors.

ADHD Co-Occurring Disorders & Intrusive Thoughts

ADHD often co-occurs anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, which can contribute to or worsen ADHD intrusive thoughts. For example, anxiety can lead to excessive worrying and ruminating thoughts, while depression can result in negative and self-critical thoughts. The presence of these co-occurring disorders adds complexity to managing ADHD symptoms and highlights the importance of treatment approaches that address both ADHD and the associated conditions.

ADHD co-occurring disorders that can cause intrusive thoughts include:

• Anxiety: The combination of ADHD and anxiety can create a cycle where the symptoms of one disorder, such as difficulties with concentration or impulsivity in ADHD, further intensify the anxious thoughts, making it challenging to manage and control intrusive thoughts.
• Depression: Depression can lead to feelings of hopelessness, low self-worth, and negative thoughts about the future or one’s abilities, which can manifest as intrusive thoughts. The presence of depression alongside ADHD can exacerbate the impact of intrusive thoughts on a person’s overall well-being and mental health outcomes.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts that result in compulsions. When an individual has co-occurring ADHD and OCD, their intrusive thoughts can be magnified by the two disorders, resulting in severe thoughts that disrupt day-to-day functioning.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): People with ADHD can also experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can cause intrusive thoughts about past traumatic experiences. These thoughts can be related to scary, distressing, or traumatic events from their past, and they can make it difficult to focus or feel calm.

Triggers for ADHD Intrusive Thoughts

Stress is a common trigger for ADHD intrusive thoughts, and it can cause thoughts to become more frequent and intense. Individuals with ADHD are prone to overstimulation, which can overwhelm them and lead to intrusive thoughts. ADHD emotional dysregulation can lead to intense reactions and intrusive thoughts. Another trigger is not getting enough good-quality sleep, which can make it harder to focus and manage thoughts.¹

Impact of ADHD Intrusive Thoughts

ADHD intrusive thoughts can have a significant impact on work or school because they make it challenging to concentrate and stay focused on tasks. This can lead to difficulties completing assignments on time, affecting performance.² Relationships can also be affected as the person may become easily distracted during conversations, leading to misunderstandings or feelings of disconnection.

How to Cope With ADHD Intrusive Thoughts

Coping with ADHD intrusive thoughts can be challenging, but there are strategies that can help. Practicing self-care, such as engaging in activities that reduce stress and promote relaxation, can also be beneficial. Building a strong support network, whether through therapy, support groups, or online communities, can provide a sense of belonging and validation.

Here are seven ways to cope with ADHD intrusive thoughts:

1. Practice Cognitive Defusion

Cognitive defusion is a technique that helps individuals detach themselves from their thoughts and see them as passing events rather than fixed truths. It can be particularly helpful for managing ADHD intrusive thoughts. One technique to practice cognitive defusion is to imagine your intrusive thoughts as clouds passing by in the sky. Instead of engaging with or trying to suppress the thoughts, simply observe them without judgment or attachment.

Here are some other cognitive defusion techniques to try:

• Labeling thoughts: When ADHD intrusive thoughts arise, label them as “just a thought” or “mental noise.” By recognizing them as transient mental events, you can create distance and lessen their impact.
• Thought bubbles: Visualize your ADHD intrusive thoughts as bubbles floating away. As each bubble surfaces, watch it drift away and dissipate.
• Writing thoughts down: Take a few minutes each day to write down your ADHD intrusive thoughts without judgment. This helps externalize them and provides a sense of release.
• Singing or humming: When ADHD intrusive thoughts arise, distract yourself by singing or humming a favorite song. This can help shift the focus away from the thoughts and bring you back to the present moment.

2. Incorporate Mindfulness & Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation for ADHD involve intentionally bringing your attention to the present moment without judgment. When ADHD intrusive thoughts arise, you can practice observing them without getting caught up. One way to do this is through mindful breathing, where you focus on the sensation of your breath going in and out, gently bringing your attention back whenever your mind starts to wander.

3. Try Thought Stopping

Thought stopping involves mentally saying “stop” when intrusive thoughts about ADHD arise and then redirecting your focus to a more positive or productive thought. Imagine a mental stop sign or push a mental button to interrupt the ADHD intrusive thought, and then consciously shift your attention to something else, like a happy memory or a favorite activity.

4. Visualize a Protective Shield

Picture yourself surrounded by a protective shield, like an energy bubble or a suit of armor. When ADHD intrusive thoughts come up, imagine that they bounce off the shield and have no power over you. This visualization can help create a sense of safety and resilience against the thoughts.

5. Repeat Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations are statements that can counteract intrusive thoughts related to ADHD. Create a list of affirmations that resonate with you, such as “I am in control of my thoughts” or “I am resilient.” Repeat these affirmations to yourself when ADHD intrusive thoughts arise to shift your mindset and promote more positive thinking.

6. Engage in a Distracting Activity

When ADHD intrusive thoughts become overwhelming, engage in a distracting activity to redirect your focus. It could be something you enjoy, like playing a musical instrument, painting, reading a book, or solving puzzles. By immersing yourself in a different task, you can break the cycle of ADHD intrusive thoughts.

7. Utilize Grounding Techniques

Grounding techniques can help bring your attention back to the present moment. One technique is the 5-4-3-2-1 method, where you identify and describe five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This sensory focus helps anchor you in the present and distracts from ADHD intrusive thoughts.

Treatment for ADHD Intrusive Thoughts

There are several ADHD treatment options that can help with ADHD intrusive thoughts. Medication, such as stimulants or non-stimulants, can be prescribed to regulate brain chemicals and reduce the frequency and impact of intrusive thoughts. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is also effective in managing ADHD symptoms, including intrusive thoughts. Medication and therapy can be used individually or in combination to provide relief.

Here are some effective treatment options for ADHD intrusive thoughts:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD focuses on identifying and modifying unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors associated with ADHD symptoms. It helps individuals develop coping skills for ADHD to manage their symptoms, including ADHD intrusive thoughts. By challenging and reframing negative thoughts, CBT can reduce the impact of ADHD intrusive thoughts and improve impulse control, attention, and overall mental well-being.
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): ACT is a therapeutic approach that aims to help individuals accept and embrace their thoughts and emotions rather than trying to eliminate or suppress them. By fostering a sense of acceptance and mindfulness, ACT can reduce the intensity and impact of ADHD intrusive thoughts.

• Medications: Medications commonly used for ADHD, such as stimulants (i.e methylphenidate) and non-stimulants (i.e atomoxetine), have been found to be effective in reducing ADHD intrusive thoughts. Stimulant medications work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals (i.e., dopamine) that help regulate attention and reduce impulsive behavior, which can help alleviate ADHD intrusive thoughts associated with ADHD.
• Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that aims to modify problematic behaviors and teach individuals coping strategies for managing ADHD symptoms. It can involve techniques such as behavior modification, parent training, and classroom interventions. Behavioral therapy can be particularly effective when combined with other treatment approaches.
• Psychoeducation: Learning about ADHD and obtaining support can be crucial for individuals with ADHD and their families. Psychoeducation helps individuals understand their condition, develop strategies to cope with ADHD intrusive thoughts and access appropriate resources
• Group therapy and support groups: Groups are excellent ways for individuals with ADHD to be around other individuals who understand their struggles and can provide suggestions and insight into how they handle ADHD symptoms, including ADHD intrusive thoughts. Group therapy and support groups are available online and in person.

When to Seek Professional Support

Individuals should consider seeking professional support when negative symptoms associated with ADHD significantly impact daily functioning, relationships, or overall well-being. To find a neurodiverse-affirming therapist, individuals can search for professionals specializing in ADHD or neurodiversity through an online therapist directory that offers detailed profiles and user reviews.

Online therapy platforms provide convenience and accessibility to access therapy from home. When considering medication management for ADHD, individuals may consult with a psychiatrist, who can evaluate symptoms, prescribe medication, and provide ongoing medication management. Online psychiatrist options can be a suitable choice for finding ADHD medication management, especially for those in areas with limited in-person options or those preferring online consultations.