Is avoidance a symptom of ADHD?
Aida Dickinson
2025-07-15 09:51:21
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: 15
The ADHD avoidance loop is a pattern where you avoid tasks that feel too hard, boring, or stressful. But the more you avoid them, the worse you feel. This leads to even more stress, shame, and overwhelm—which makes you avoid them even more. It’s a cycle of delay and dread. At first, avoidance might feel like a relief. You get to escape a stressful task and do something easier, like scrolling on your phone or cleaning your room. But deep down, you still know the task is waiting. Avoidance gives short-term relief. But it trains your brain to expect that relief every time you face a hard task. Over time, this creates a habit. Your brain learns, “If I avoid, I’ll feel better.” But in the long run, avoidance leads to more stress, missed deadlines, and low self-esteem. This loop doesn’t mean you’re lazy or irresponsible. It means your brain is doing what it thinks will protect you—avoiding pain.
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