Wildfires fucking suck! The impact of wildfires, such as those in Los Angeles, on individuals with ADHD/ADD can manifest in several ways. These disasters disrupt routines, increase stress, and make it harder to manage Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) symptoms. This guide can provide some insight into how wildfires affect ADHD/ADD and practical tips to help adults stay on track during wildfire season.
How Wildfires Affect Adults with ADHD/ADD
- Routine Disruptions
People with ADHD/ADD rely on routines to stay organized and focused. Wildfires often cause evacuations, closed roads, or power outages that disrupt daily schedules. Without structure, it’s easy to feel scattered, overwhelmed, and stagnant. - Increased Stress
The uncertainty of wildfires can lead to a lot of worry, fear, and anxiety. For adults with ADHD/ADD, this stress can make it harder to control emotions, leading to inattention, frustration, impulsive behaviors, or depression. - Sensory Overload
Wildfires bring loud noises like sirens, smoky air, constant visual stimulation, and crowded evacuation centers. For someone with ADHD/ADD, these overwhelming sensory experiences can make it difficult to think clearly or calm down. - Interrupted Therapy
Regular therapy is important for managing ADHD/ADD, but wildfires can cause cancellations or make it hard to access in-person care. This can leave adults without the support they need for ADHD treatment and ADHD coaching during a stressful time. It can also make it difficult to gain access to the right medication and medicine needed to better manage your ADHD diagnosis. - Physical Challenges
Smoke from wildfires can cause fatigue, headaches, and brain fog. These physical issues can worsen ADHD/ADD symptoms like trouble focusing, staying motivated, and struggling with sustained mental effort.
Tips for Managing ADHD/ADD During Wildfires
Even during a wildfire, there are ways to manage ADD and stick to therapy goals
- Make an Emergency Plan
- Work with your therapist to create a plan that fits your needs.
- Include a checklist of important items like medications, therapy tools, and sensory aids.
2. Use Telehealth for Therapy
- ADHD/ADD Therapy for adults can be done online, which can help if you can’t meet in person.
- Talk to your therapist and psychiatrist about telehealth options and make sure you know how to use the technology
3. Calm Your Mind
- Learn simple stress-relief techniques like deep belly breaths, mindfulness meditation, or stretching.
4. Manage Sensory Overload
- Tools like weighted blankets, earplugs, or air purifiers can help reduce sensory stress.
- Create a calm space at home, in your car, or in a shelter where you can relax when needed.
5. Stick to a Flexible Routine
- Even if your usual schedule changes, try to build a temporary routine.
- Focus on small, manageable tasks each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
6. Take Care of Your Health
- Stay hydrated, eat nutritious meals if possible, and get plenty of sleep.
- Be patient with yourself if you feel tired or foggy from smoke exposure.
Wildfires in Los Angeles can make managing ADHD/ADD harder, but with the right tools and support like ADHD/ADD Therapy for adults, it’s possible to stay on track. Create an emergency plan, explore telehealth therapy, and use stress-management strategies to handle challenges.
By staying flexible and focusing on self-care, you can continue to manage your ADHD/ADD and build resilience, even during wildfire season.
Let’s Work Together to Help You Manage ADHD/ADD
ADHD or ADD might make life harder, but therapy can give you the tools to take back control. Talk to a therapist about preparing for wildfires and explore online therapy options today. Therapy for Adulting is located in Los Angeles, CA and can provide online services to anyone in the state of California.
Gina is a therapist who specializes in ADHD and ADD, Adulting, and Dating. She has helped adults like you discover their strengths and create strategies that work for them. Let’s work together to help you feel more in control and focused.
Ready to get started? Schedule a free consultation today and see how ADHD and ADD therapy for adults can change your life.
Click the link above or email gina@therapyforadulting.com.
