ADHD Expert: Why You Feel Motivated But Can't Do Anything
Sep 25, 2026 · 1h 10m
Summary
Dr. Sasha Hamdani discusses ADHD as a regulation disorder affecting emotion and motivation, not just attention. She explains how Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria amplifies perceived threats and offers communication tips like using bullet points and neutral framing. The episode covers diagnostic disparities, the importance of early intervention, and strategies for managing emotional dysregulation in relationships.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: LinkedIn Hiring Pro
Host intro and guest background in ADHD
Defining ADHD: Attention vs. Regulation
Reframing ADHD as a regulation disorder
Is ADHD an epidemic? Over vs. under-diagnosis
Sponsor: Cozy Earth
Holistic view of dysregulation and labeling
When does ADHD emerge? Childhood vs. Adulthood
The ADHD spectrum and presentation types
Socioeconomic disparities in diagnosis
Introduction to Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)
Communication strategies for ADHD and RSD
Navigating conflict: Anxious vs. Avoidant attachment
Guest's personal journey: Diagnosis and Med School
Sponsor: David Protein Bars
Tools for partners: Framing and emotional safety
Formatting advice: Bullet points and brevity
Neurology of poor filtration and sensory input
The link between emotional status and functionality
Misdiagnosis: Effort vs. Neurological blockages
Handling difficult conversations and people-pleasing
Building trust through text and reassurance
Managing over-explaining and context in conversation
The biggest misconception: Laziness vs. Wiring
Household dynamics and supporting deadlines
Why feedback feels like a personal attack (RSD)
Practical tools: Breathing and prefrontal cortex
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