Ever wondered why ADHD meltdowns seem so extreme and hard to manage? The answer lies in a crucial but often overlooked aspect of ADHD—emotional dysregulation—which surprisingly isn't even included in diagnostic criteria.

On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Teri dive into some neuroscience behind these emotional challenges, exploring fascinating brain differences that explain why criticism can trigger an emotional tsunami in someone with ADHD. With approximately 80% of adolescents and adults with ADHD experiencing rejection-sensitive dysphoria, understanding these brain-based reactions transforms how we respond to emotional outbursts.

Through a real-life parenting example about screen time limits, we demonstrate practical strategies for navigating boundaries without triggering meltdowns. You'll learn why co-regulation (bringing calm to emotional fire) works better than punishment, how to teach responsibility rather than enforce compliance, and why narrowing choices helps ADHD brains make decisions when they're paralyzed by too many options.

Most importantly, we reframe discipline as teaching rather than punishment. The word "discipline" comes from "disciple," meaning to teach—and our goal should be equipping those with ADHD with skills to navigate their emotional landscape independently. We explain why consistency and repetition are crucial, and why working memory, long-term memory, and processing speed deficits (not just attention issues) create everyday challenges.

Whether you're raising a child with ADHD or managing it yourself, this episode offers compassionate understanding alongside practical, science-backed strategies to transform your approach to emotional dysregulation. Come away with tools to turn frustrating interactions into opportunities for growth and learning.

ABOUT US:
The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her co-hosts have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping moms and kids thrive in life, learning, and relationships. If you love us, add us to your playlist and follow us on social media!

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