Podcast Summary
Bumble's New Features for Better Online Dating Experience: Bumble introduces new features to improve compatibility, start conversations, and ensure safety in online dating. The ADHD Docs podcast continues to provide valuable insights and support for those with ADHD.
Bumble is making improvements to make online dating easier and more enjoyable for its users. The app is introducing new features aimed at enhancing compatibility, starting conversations, and ensuring safety. Meanwhile, the hosts of the ADHD Docs podcast, James Brown, Alex Connor, and Missus ADHD, discussed their experiences and shared listener feedback. A listener named Hallie expressed her appreciation for the podcast and its impact on raising awareness about ADHD. She also wished for a happy birthday shout-out for her friend Kylie, who was celebrating her birthday on the day of recording. The podcast continues to provide valuable insights and education about ADHD, and its hosts remain dedicated to helping those with ADHD feel understood and supported.
Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors vs. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: BFRBs are distinct from OCD, involving repetitive behaviors towards specific body areas, often due to stress or boredom, and do not necessarily involve obsessive thoughts or compulsive actions to reduce anxiety.
Body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) are distinct from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), although they may appear similar. BFRBs involve intense, repetitive behaviors directed towards specific areas of the body, such as hair pulling (trichotillomania) or skin picking (dermatillomania or excoriation). These behaviors often occur due to stress or boredom and can be difficult to notice because they are sometimes done unconsciously. Unlike OCD, which is characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions aimed at reducing anxiety, BFRBs do not necessarily involve a fear of harm or a belief that a ritual will prevent a negative outcome. It's important to recognize the differences between these conditions to ensure appropriate treatment and support. Additionally, it's common for individuals to engage in body focused repetitive behaviors without realizing it, making awareness and education key in understanding and managing these conditions.
Link Between ADHD and BFRBs: ADHD individuals may have a higher prevalence of BFRBs, but teasing them for these behaviors is not appropriate, and more research is needed on this topic.
Individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may have a higher prevalence of Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) such as hair pulling, nail biting, and skin picking. During a conversation, it was mentioned that a highly published scientist, James, exhibits these behaviors, and they jokingly tease him about it. However, it was acknowledged that teasing someone for these behaviors should not be linked to their intelligence, as dyslexia or other learning difficulties might be the reason for not being able to read. The discussion also touched upon the lack of extensive research on the subject and the co-occurrence of ADHD and BFRBs. The conversation included various jokes and hyperbole, but the underlying message was to raise awareness about the potential link between ADHD and BFRBs.
ADHD and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors: People with ADHD might have BFRBs, but it's hard to determine if it's due to ADHD or other conditions. Medications may not stop behaviors, seek professional help, use techniques like CBT, ACT, and habit reversal training, access support groups, and practice mindfulness can help manage.
Individuals with ADHD may be more likely to have Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) such as nose picking, due to their impulsive nature. However, it's important to note that ADHD often coexists with other conditions like OCD, autism, and more, making it challenging to determine if the behaviors are caused by ADHD or other conditions. Medications like methylphenidate may not stop these behaviors entirely. Instead, seeking professional help from a mental health care provider trained in treating BFRBs, using techniques such as CBT, ACT, and habit reversal training, and accessing support groups or peer support can be effective. Additionally, mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help manage the behaviors. It's also essential to remember that everyone's experience is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Managing urges with deep breathing and relaxation: Deep breathing and relaxation techniques can help individuals manage compulsive behaviors like nail biting, nose picking, and skin picking by reducing stress and anxiety, ultimately breaking the cycle of shame and harm.
Deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques can help individuals manage urges and reduce the frequency of Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) such as nail biting, nose picking, and skin picking. These behaviors often stem from a sense of shame and embarrassment, making it difficult for individuals to seek help. Personal reflections shared in the podcast reveal that these behaviors are not conscious choices but rather compulsive habits. The speakers also emphasized that they don't consume or eat the picked objects, which can be a source of relief for some. However, the repetitive nature of these behaviors creates a cycle of shame and more picking, leading to more harm. The use of deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques can help individuals become more aware of these urges and manage stress and anxiety, ultimately reducing the frequency and impact of BFRBs.
Understanding the Overlap of BFRBs and Stimming: BFRBs and Stimming share similar functions but are distinct behaviors. Understanding the differences can help in managing them and improving overall well-being.
Sam and Alex discussed their experiences with Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) and discovered that some of their habits, such as picking at scabs or nails, could be considered both BFRBs and Stimming behaviors. They found that their impulsive actions, driven by feelings of shame and guilt, often provided them with a sense of relief and dopamine. Despite their efforts to stop these habits, they continued to struggle. Sam also shared his experience with ding patrol, where he felt the need to check for imperfections and pick at them, affecting various parts of his body including his mouth, lips, nose, and eyes. They acknowledged that while some of these behaviors serve similar functions, they are distinct and understanding the differences can be helpful. It's important to remember that these behaviors, while sometimes seemingly trivial, can have negative consequences and impact overall well-being.
Our quirks and habits can impact us in unexpected ways: Accepting ourselves and our quirks, staying calm, and approaching problems with a clear mind can help reduce distress and frustration.
Everyone has quirks and habits, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, that can impact their daily lives in unexpected ways. For instance, one person might have a fear of getting their blood pressure checked due to an embarrassing incident involving excessive nose-picking and loss of blood. Another person might spend hours searching for their glasses, even when they're right in front of them. These behaviors might seem silly or even inconsequential, but they can cause significant distress and frustration. Another important takeaway is the importance of self-acceptance and emotional acceptance. It's not always easy to forgive ourselves for our quirks and habits, especially when they cause us embarrassment or inconvenience. But it's crucial to remember that everyone has unique neurological and emotional needs, and it's important to be kind to ourselves and accept ourselves as we are. Lastly, it's important to remember that sometimes the solution to a problem is simpler than we think. In the case of the person searching for their glasses, they might have been right in front of them the entire time. It's important to take a step back, stay calm, and approach the problem with a clear and open mind. Sometimes, all it takes is a little perspective and a willingness to see things from a different angle.
Exploring ways to keep hands and minds occupied to manage BFRBs: Personalized strategies like setting achievable goals, keeping busy with multiple tasks, using stress relievers, moisturizing, and using antibacterial mouthwash can help manage BFRBs. Self-compassion and realistic goal-setting are also crucial.
Finding ways to keep our hands and minds occupied can help reduce the frequency of unwanted behaviors like nail biting, nose picking, and skin picking. Sam suggested keeping busy with multiple tasks or using stress relievers, while moisturizing and using an antibacterial mouthwash were also helpful for him. Alex emphasized the importance of setting achievable goals and not setting ourselves up for failure. While there is evidence that SSRIs can help reduce some BFRBs, they may not be effective for all types of habits or those that are stress-induced. Overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of finding personalized strategies to manage these behaviors and the importance of self-compassion and realistic goal-setting.
Struggling with absolute commitments due to lengthy perception of time in ADHD brains: Instead of making absolute commitments, set smaller, achievable goals for progress in managing behaviors like nose picking. Use practical methods and acknowledge triggers to reduce shame and seek support.
Individuals with ADHD may struggle with making absolute commitments due to the lengthy perception of time in their brains. This can set them up for feelings of failure and disappointment. Instead, setting smaller, achievable goals can lead to a sense of accomplishment. For instance, someone trying to stop nose picking could aim to do it only three times a day. Practical methods like using a fidget spinner or putting a plaster on the picking finger can also help. It's important to remember that progress, no matter how small, is still progress. Additionally, acknowledging the internal or external triggers and reframing the thought process behind the behavior can help reduce feelings of shame. The conversation also touched upon the shared experiences of having both ADHD and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) and the embarrassment that comes with it. It's essential to remember that these issues are not new and that seeking support and understanding from others can be beneficial.
Replace unwanted habits with rewarding alternatives: Find activities or tools that provide immediate satisfaction and long-term rewards to replace unwanted habits, like nail-biting, for a beautiful and dandelion-free life.
Finding alternative activities or tools that provide immediate satisfaction and long-term rewards can help individuals break free from unwanted habits, such as nail-biting. Sam's experience of using a weed puller in her garden to remove dandelions instead of biting her nails illustrates this concept. The immediate reward comes from successfully pulling out a weed, while the long-term reward is the satisfaction of having a beautiful, dandelion-free garden. This idea can be applied to anyone, even those living in a block of flats, as it involves replacing the habit with a more rewarding alternative. The uncertainty and anticipation of the reward also contribute to the dopamine release, making the activity even more engaging. However, it's important to consider social norms and respect other people's property when implementing this strategy.
Connecting with Others Despite Challenges with Small Talk: People with ADHD can find small talk challenging, but focusing on shared interests, personal growth, and giving back can lead to meaningful connections.
People with ADHD often find small talk challenging, similar to individuals with autism, but the approach to dealing with it can differ. For some, it's a matter of not being bothered and saying whatever comes to mind, while others may struggle more. Regardless, meaningful connections can still be made, and it's essential to focus on shared interests or experiences that hold significance. Moreover, engaging in activities that provide personal rewards or benefits to oneself or others can make even seemingly mundane interactions more enjoyable. In the spirit of giving back, supporting charities that align with one's values can also add meaning to our interactions and make a positive impact on the world. Lastly, the ADHD Allowed Podcast, episode 112, discussed ADHD and Body Focus Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). The speaker emphasized the importance of understanding and accepting these traits as part of one's identity and finding ways to cope and thrive despite the challenges. So, remember, even brief encounters can lead to valuable connections, and focusing on shared interests and personal growth can make all the difference.
