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Talking to a person who is suffering from ADHD is different from talking to a person who is not. The key symptoms of ADHD, hyperactivity, impulsivity and concentration deficit influence the development of converations too. That may cause problems when trying to create a good understanding. Therefore, it is of utmost significance that one is aware of such behaviour and tries to pay as much attention as possible to it so that it does not influence the conversation. These characteristics are typical of an ADHDer:
• Not talking: ADHDers are sometimes so caught up in their own world of thoughts, feelings and worries that they forget to answer when someone is posing them a question.
• Impulsivity: impulsivity in a conversation may be good thing, because then the other person knows who he is dealing with. Nonetheless, it is not always diplomatic to bluntly express your opinion all the time. ADHDers should try being patient, breathe calmly and speak their mind at the appropriate time.
• Finishing sentences: To show their partner they are listening attentively, ADHDers tend to finish the sentences of their conversation partner themselves. That is meant for the best but may in the long term get on other people’s nerves and lead to frustration and anger.
• Changing the subject: This is a frequent and difficult problem with ADHDers. They start speaking about a particular subject and after one minute they have already rambled on to another subject. Their thoughts are riding a rollercoaster, and as a result, things are never being finished or completely discussed, which in turn causes frustration and the feeling of not making any progress with your partner.
Low self-esteem: When you have been criticised for your behaviour for years, you will automatically adopt a defensive attitude. As an ADHDer you are always on your guard and ready to defend yourself or to counterattack. That creates a tension in communication and hampers mutual openness.
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