Emotional Tantrums

‘Tantrum’ is a word that I hate to use about adult behavior, but unfortunately in the emotional dysregulation that can come with ADHD, it can sometimes be apt.  I’ve seen grown men jump up and down in one place, face red, with fists balled up.  It’s not pretty.  And it is a tantrum.

I chose this quote because it speaks to a common response to tantrums that doesn’t typically work – trying to calm someone down once the tantrum has started.  At that point, the person’s logical thinking has been hijacked, and calming them is almost impossible.  Instead, you must let the angry partner calm down and make sure everyone (including yourself) remains safe.  The calmer the other partner is, the less fuel for the tantrum ‘fire.’

A better strategy is to create a verbal cue to use before the tantrum starts that keeps emotions from escalating.  I review how to do this in my couples seminar.

I have also recently written a blog post on extreme emotions that provides interesting info on the biology of emotional dysregulation and on RSD. 

If you have wild outbursts in your relationship, I hope you review these resources.

NEWS and EVENTS:

Registration for the next live session will open up in the next week or two.  In the meantime, the self-study is available.

Registration for the January non-ADHD support groups will open up on December 8.

To all Veterans: Thank you for your service!

Adult ADHD can have a huge impact on your relationship. Find great resources for couples impacted by ADHD including free: Online treatment overview; Downloadable chapters of my books; A community forum with other couples facing similar issues; A large number of blog posts on various topics; Referrals. ADHDmarriage.com can literally change your life! 

RESOURCES:

Is your relationship in trouble? Consider my highly acclaimed couples' course: ADHD Effect In-Depth Couples' Seminar - This 8-session phone seminar has helped many couples thrive in healthier, happier relationships. 

Support Tele-groups - Be part of a community exploring similar issues, successes and struggles and find new, effective ways to be your best self in your relationship: Non ADHD Partner Support Tele-group and ADHD New Habit Coaching Group.

How to Optimize Treatment for Adult ADHD - go to the home page for a free download about the best ways to manage ADHD.

Question? Contact Melissa.

- Please follow us for tips and resources.