The term “islands of happiness” was coined by one of my clients during a conversation about his experiences with his symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). He vividly described how his mood fluctuated depending on whether he had a compelling interest or activity to focus on. During these periods of intense engagement, he felt motivated, engaged, and content. However, he also shared how, inevitably, the passion would wane, leaving him feeling adrift, unmotivated, and sometimes downright depressed. In this blog, we’ll explore the concept of “islands of happiness” in the context of ADHD, examining how passionate pursuits can impact mood and well-being, as well as strategies for navigating the ebb and flow of interest and motivation.
Living with ADHD can be like sailing through “rough waters”, with mood swings and fluctuations in focus making daily life challenging. Yet, within this tumultuous journey, there are moments or periods where individuals with ADHD find themselves fully engaged in a passion or interest. These moments offer a reprieve from the challenges of inattention and impulsivity, providing a sense of purpose, fulfilment and “happiness.”
My client’s experience is not unique. Many individuals with ADHD report similar patterns of mood and motivation tied to their interests and activities. When they find something that captivates their attention, they experience a surge of energy and enthusiasm. Whether it’s a new hobby, a creative project, or a career pursuit, the intensity of their focus during these periods of hyper-engagement can be both exhilarating and transformative.
However, as my client lamented, these periods of intense focus are often fleeting. Eventually, the initial excitement wears off, and the passion fades, leaving individuals with ADHD feeling adrift once again. This cycle of enthusiasm followed by disillusionment can be disheartening, leading to feelings of frustration, restlessness, and even depression.
So how can individuals with ADHD navigate these islands of happiness more effectively? One approach is to embrace the concept of “serial passion.” Instead of viewing each interest as a lifelong commitment, they can embrace the idea of exploring multiple passions over time. By recognizing that interests may evolve and change, individuals with ADHD can approach new pursuits with curiosity and flexibility, allowing themselves to fully immerse in the present moment without worrying about the future.
Additionally, it’s essential for individuals with ADHD to build resilience and coping strategies to navigate the inevitable challenges that arise when their interests wane. This might involve seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals, practicing mindfulness and self-care, and developing healthy routines to maintain stability during periods of transition.
Ultimately, while the journey of navigating islands of happiness with ADHD may have its ups and downs, it’s also a journey of self-discovery and growth. By embracing their passions, learning from their experiences, and cultivating resilience along the way, individuals with ADHD can chart a course towards greater fulfillment and well-being.
