Physical and Mental Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity is an intrinsic part of having ADHD and can be incredibly annoying for both the ADHDer and the people they mix with. It’s interesting that when I talk about hyperactivity, most people think of the little boys who can’t sit still, who need to be moving, climbing, bouncing, or just generally doing things. They jump from one activity to another and never really settle down and get engaged in what they are doing, never quite relaxing.  The thing is, that is only one side of hyperactivity—it’s the external and easily seen side.

Hyperactivity is also the daydreamer in the child who has a hyperactive mind. They are easily distracted and lost in their thoughts, leaping three steps ahead in the conversation and thinking way outside the box. They jump from one idea to another and never really settle down and think things through, never quite relaxing.

Interestingly, this is the distinction in the categories of ADHD: hyperactive, inattentive and combined.  They are different presentations of the same thing!

Now, what is going on to cause this hyperactivity?

As I’ve talked about before in previous workshops and videos, ADHD brains have three core differences from their neurotypical counterparts: the chemistry, structure and networks, and each of these plays a role in the hyperactive tendencies in an ADHD brain.

First is the search for adrenaline and dopamine—two neurotransmitters that help messages get through the brain. The novelty of new activities and thoughts, following an interesting trail, provides a lot more dopamine to the brain than sitting with something, unless that something is extremely rewarding (think video games or your child’s latest passion).

Second is the smaller size of the prefrontal cortex, where the executive function, or the CEO of the brain, lives. It exists much more in the present than the neurotypical brain and has trouble managing the body and focusing on what is important rather than interesting.

Finally, the ADHD brain prefers staying within the default mode network rather than changing to the task-positive network.  The parts of the brain that usually engage with deep thinking and concentrated focus don’t kick in, and our brains are free to continue wandering internally and with our bodies.

This month, we are looking at hyperactivity.  Through the Facebook group, you will receive: Monday Mindset tips about managing your restless hyperactivity and your child’s, Wednesday What questions that allow us to combine our collective wisdom and share the tips and tricks that work for us, Friday Fun activities to complete with your child so they have a better understanding of their own hyperactivity and what they can do about it.  There will also be a couple of articles, including one on the benefits of mindfulness.  And on Sunday, the 5th of May, it will all culminate in a live, in-person workshop on Physical and Mental Hyperactivity!  Welcome to the journey. I hope to see you there.