Is It ADHD or CPTSD? Understanding How Trauma Impacts Focus and Motivation

Clients often come into the office for a first session with a previous diagnosis of ADHD or a concern that they might fit the diagnosis for ADHD. They report a long history (since childhood) of inattention, difficulty focusing, feeling ‘different from others’, failing to accomplish tasks, hyperfocus on certain topics, procrastination, and difficulty with motivation. They also report being fidgety, having difficulty staying in their seats, experiencing a ‘flight of ideas’ (changing topics and moving from one task to another), and often getting in trouble at school for being distracted. These are classic signs of ADHD, but they are also common signs of childhood trauma, especially CPTSD (complex post-traumatic stress disorder, see https://solacecounselingandcoaching.com/what-is-complex-trauma-cptsd/)

A child might have trouble focusing in class simply because their brain is wired neurologically to struggle to stay on task, while another child might appear just as distracted, but be so because they are emotionally or psychologically overwhelmed, disassociating, replaying past traumatic experiences, or worrying about what will happen when they get home. The difference is that one child’s brain struggles with focus due to its wiring, while the other’s brain is consumed by emotional stress or fear from their environment. For children who have experienced ongoing trauma, especially in the form of neglect, abuse, or unstable home environments, their brains are often in a state of hypervigilance, constantly on alert for threats. This state of heightened arousal can make it difficult to focus on anything else, including schoolwork, even when there’s no immediate danger present.

As we grow into adults, many of these same patterns persist, often leading us to seek counseling or clarification of a diagnosis. Adults with a history of CPTSD may continue to struggle with focus, motivation, and productivity, but they may also begin to question whether their difficulties stem from CPTSD, ADHD, or a combination of both. The emotional and psychological toll of unresolved trauma can mimic or overlap with symptoms of ADHD, making it challenging to differentiate between the two. This confusion often leads individuals to seek professional help, hoping to understand the root cause of their struggles and find the right path to healing and growth.

CPTSD can also lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and a sense of being disconnected from others. Those with CPTSD may struggle with self-esteem, have difficulty trusting others, or experience ongoing intrusive thoughts and flashbacks. This constant state of emotional turmoil makes it hard to concentrate, stay motivated, and manage everyday tasks. Unlike ADHD, where the brain’s wiring is the primary issue, CPTSD often involves ongoing emotional pain and the body’s response to trauma, which can feel just as disruptive, if not more so, than the difficulties of focus and attention seen in ADHD.

If you find yourself struggling with focus, motivation, or emotional overwhelm and suspect that unresolved trauma might be at the root of these challenges, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Reaching out for counseling can provide the clarity you need to understand what’s happening and how to begin healing. Whether these patterns have been with you for years or have recently become more pronounced, therapy can offer the support and tools necessary to find peace and restore balance in your life. Take the first step today by scheduling a session—together, we can work through the complexities of CPTSD, help you regain control, and move toward a life of greater emotional stability and well-being.

Schedule online or give us a call/text at 346-901-7309.