This week I am joined by Catherine Herling. She is a licensed family therapist and marriage counselor. She specializes in Neurodivergent Relationships.

This week we will be answering listener questions relating to her specialization with Neurodivergent Relationships.

Today’s question: I have ADHD and it is really hard for me to ask my partner for support. I sometimes worry that it is becoming like a parent or a child. For example, asking for support with things like helping to remember to pay bills and other things like that. Do you have any tips or suggestions for how to get support with ADHD without becoming that parent, child relationship? 

Answer: This is an executive functioning issue. Executive functioning is very difficult for ADHD people as opposed to neurotypical people. Executive Functions are very difficult for people with ADHD and your partner may be making assumptions. This is where transparency is most beneficial. 

Your partner may be assuming you are poor at what they see as simple. For them these tasks may come easy but for you they may be extremely difficult. 

Everyone needs assistance at some time. Being vulnerable, being transparent and sharing what your needs are is extremely important. Asking for their assistance and getting their support and not judgment is a key to your relationship. 

Asking for assistance is not a measure of your ADHD. Being open about what your needs are is just a part of relational awareness. Remember, the key is vulnerability, transparency and simply asking for their assistance and support.

 

Good Risings is a mindset. Join Elizabeth Earnshaw for a daily dose of Advice.

Presented By: Cavalry Audio. 

Producers: Jason Seagraves & Margot Carmichael.  

Audio Editing: Revision Sound.

Music: Gramoscope Music. 

Show Notes by: Brett Burris

Executive Producers: Elizabeth Earnshaw, Dana Brunetti & Keegan Rosenberger. 

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