Dopamine is a neurochemical associated with rewards [1], [2]. When functioning in a neurotypical brain, dopamine is part of a system that provides a surge of pleasure or good feeling, motivating and reinforcing completing a task.
But, when operating in an ADHD brain, this process is disrupted [1], [2].
Academics are not yet clear on exactly why ADHD brains differ. Possibilities include differences in our dopamine receptors, the dopamine (DAT1), or differences in parts of the brain itself [3]–[6]. But essentially, what these observed differences have resulted in is a general understanding that people with ADHD do not seem to receive the same positive feeling and reinforcement for task completion compared to neurotypicals [2]. This might be why the phrase, "you'll feel better once you've done it," doesn't always work for us.
Lets learn about our unique brains and a cool way to check in each month to see where you are at with them.
JOIN FOCUSED: https://ihaveadhdllc.ontralink.com/t?orid=29951&opid=1
SOURCES:
https://www.unconventionalorganisation.com/post/adhd-and-dopamine-five-ways-to-increase-task-motivation
https://www.theminiadhdcoach.com/blog/adhd-executive-function
And information from Dr. Russel Barkley, ADHD 2.0 and taking charge of adult ADHD
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