ADHD and hobbies research
Navigating Interests: A Study of Hobbies and Engagement in Online ADHD Forums
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) presents unique challenges in how individuals engage with the world, particularly concerning attention regulation, motivation, and the ability to sustain focus over time. The neurological underpinnings of ADHD often result in an "interest-based nervous system," where motivation is intrinsically linked to the level of personal interest rather than the perceived importance of a task. This can significantly influence how individuals with ADHD approach and maintain hobbies, which, being voluntary activities, are especially susceptible to fluctuations in interest and attention. Furthermore, the executive function deficits commonly associated with ADHD can impact the planning, initiation, and persistence required for many hobbies. The interplay of these factors creates a distinct landscape for hobby engagement in individuals with ADHD, where intrinsic motivation and the capacity to sustain focus are paramount.
Despite these challenges, hobbies and interests play a vital role in the well-being of individuals with ADHD. Engaging in enjoyable activities can provide a crucial sense of accomplishment, effectively reduce stress levels, and contribute to improved mental health. These activities can also stimulate the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter often found at lower levels in individuals with ADHD. For instance, creative hobbies have been shown to naturally boost dopamine levels. Moreover, hobbies can serve as positive outlets for the often abundant energy and creativity characteristic of ADHD ; dance and movement classes, for example, offer a structured way to expend energy while enhancing concentration. For individuals with ADHD who may experience difficulties with consistency in various aspects of life, the pursuit of hobbies can provide a sense of structure and contribute to the development of a more robust sense of personal identity. Beyond general well-being, hobbies can function as a critical self-regulation mechanism for individuals with ADHD, providing much-needed stimulation and a feeling of mastery that might be absent in other areas of their lives. The structured nature of some hobbies, such as martial arts or learning a musical instrument, can aid in developing discipline and self-control, suggesting a therapeutic value that extends beyond mere leisure.
This report aims to analyze discussions within online forums dedicated to the ADHD community to understand the typical hobbies and interests pursued by individuals with ADHD, the common questions and concerns they raise regarding these activities, and the strategies and recommendations they share with one another. By synthesizing information from a variety of online platforms, this analysis seeks to identify frequently mentioned hobbies, recurring challenges in their pursuit, and the collective wisdom of the community in navigating these challenges. The scope of this report includes forums catering to adults with ADHD, as well as those focused on specific demographics within the ADHD community, such as women with ADHD.
Popular Online Forums for the ADHD Community
The internet hosts a multitude of online forums and communities where individuals with ADHD can connect, share experiences, and seek support. Among the most popular are Reddit's r/ADHD and r/adhdwomen , both recognized for their vibrant and active membership. ADDitude Magazine also maintains active online forums that complement its online magazine content, fostering in-depth discussions and support related to ADHD. National organizations like CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD) and ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association) offer a range of online communities, support groups, and virtual programs, often emphasizing education and evidence-based information.
Other notable platforms include TotallyADD, known for its humorous and relatable content , and HealthfulChat, which provides an ADHD-specific chat room and forums for peer support. The 7 Cups ADHD Forum offers a general mental health support forum with a dedicated ADHD section where users discuss personal struggles and seek advice. For relationship-specific support, the ADHD Marriage Forums focus on the unique challenges faced by couples affected by ADHD. SimplyWellbeing hosts ADHD news and discussion forums with insights and strategies for living with ADHD. HealthUnlocked also hosts CHADD's Adult ADHD Support community , providing a space for members to learn from shared experiences.
Smaller, more niche communities also exist, such as The Kaleidoscope Society, a community for and by women with ADHD , and Queens of Distraction, a Facebook group run by an ADHD coach for women. Neuroqueer caters to LGBTQ adults with ADHD and autism, offering support from coaches and peers. The existence of such a diverse array of forums underscores the multifaceted needs within the ADHD community, with platforms tailored to different levels of formality, specific demographic groups, and particular relationship contexts. These online spaces serve as vital resources, offering understanding and validation that can significantly reduce the feelings of loneliness and isolation often experienced by individuals living with ADHD. Finding others with similar experiences can be a profound relief , fostering a sense of belonging and shared understanding crucial for emotional well-being and coping with the daily challenges of ADHD.
Frequently Discussed Hobbies and Interests
Discussions within these online forums reveal a wide spectrum of hobbies and interests pursued by individuals with ADHD. These can be broadly categorized into several areas:
Creative Arts: This category encompasses a vast range of activities, including drawing, painting, and various crafts such as knitting, crocheting, embroidery, needle felting, and diamond painting. Other popular creative pursuits include candle making, carving, sewing, origami, model making, pottery, calligraphy, bullet journaling, scrapbooking, card making, jewelry making, digital painting, brewing beer, and even more unconventional hobbies like making basil wood airplanes.
Music and Performing Arts: Many forum members express interest in playing musical instruments such as guitar, bass, saxophone, piano, drums, Djembe, didgeridoo, violin, clarinet, trombone, trumpet, Celtic harp, and mandolin. Singing, songwriting, DJing, dancing in various styles (including pole dancing, ballet, modern, Zumba, and belly dancing), LARPing (Live Action Role Play), and acting in musicals and plays are also frequently mentioned.
Physical Activities and Sports: This broad category includes running, walking, hiking, yoga, mindful stretching, and team sports like baseball and soccer. Martial arts (karate, tai chi, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Capoeira), rock climbing, bouldering, swimming, functional movement, gymnastics, judo, weightlifting, mountain biking, night skiing, shooting pool, fly fishing, rowing, playing with radio-controlled airplanes and helicopters, birdwatching, bush walking, lasertag, Quidditch, puzzling (jigsaw puzzles), airsoft, hockey, canoeing/K1 river marathons, body surfing, skiing, cycling, disc golf, and roller skating are also discussed.
Intellectual Pursuits and Learning: Many individuals with ADHD express a passion for reading across various genres, writing (including novels, poetry, journaling, and blogging), learning languages, and studying specific topics such as space, quantum mechanics, history, law, and science. Solving puzzles (crosswords, Sudoku, Rubik's Cubes), playing strategy games (video games, tabletop games, chess, Magic: The Gathering), building computers, tinkering with technology (reformatting laptops, Linux), reverse engineering electronics, programming, astronomy, collecting (video games, records, hobbies), birdwatching, gardening (including creating wildlife habitats), fermenting food and drinks, and researching various topics (like UFOs or history) are also popular.
Gaming: Video games across various genres, including strategy, single-player adventures, MMORPGs, competitive games, and VR, are frequently discussed. Tabletop games, fantasy pen-and-paper games, solo board games, and even game creation are also mentioned.
Collecting: This includes a variety of items such as old video games, rocks, and even hobbies themselves, a phenomenon referred to as "hobby collecting".
Other: Additional hobbies mentioned include cooking and baking, gardening, volunteering, various DIY projects like building furniture or miniature sets, car and motorcycle maintenance and restoration, and raising pets.
The appeal of these diverse hobbies for individuals with ADHD often stems from several key factors. Many hobbies, particularly those in the creative arts, offer an avenue for self-expression and can be deeply engaging, sometimes leading to hyperfocus. Physical activities provide a much-needed outlet for the energy and restlessness often associated with ADHD, while also improving focus and mood. Gaming, with its constant stimulation, challenges, and rewards, aligns well with the ADHD tendency for hyperfocus. Intellectual pursuits cater to the often intense curiosity and desire for learning observed in individuals with ADHD. Many of these hobbies also offer the potential for tangible progress and a sense of accomplishment, which can be particularly motivating. Furthermore, some hobbies provide opportunities for social connection, either online or in person, which can be highly beneficial. The recurring theme of "hobby collecting" suggests a significant aspect of the ADHD experience: a constant seeking of novelty and a less conventional approach to long-term engagement in a single area.
Common Questions and Concerns Related to Hobbies
Discussions in ADHD online forums frequently involve questions and concerns related to initiating, maintaining, and enjoying hobbies. A central question is how to find a hobby that can be sustained over time, reflecting the common struggle with "hobby hopping". Many users express frustration with the cycle of intense initial interest followed by a rapid decline in motivation and seek strategies to maintain engagement beyond the initial novelty. Cost is another significant concern, especially given the tendency to cycle through various interests, leading to questions about inexpensive hobbies.
The phenomenon of hyperfocus on hobbies is also a common topic. While initially beneficial for deep engagement, users often ask how to manage this intense focus to prevent neglect of other responsibilities. Many individuals wonder if their tendency to have numerous hobbies and leave projects unfinished is a normal experience within the ADHD community. Re-engaging with past hobbies that were once enjoyed but have since lost their appeal is another common desire. Forum members also frequently seek recommendations for hobbies that are particularly well-suited for individuals with ADHD. Finally, many express feelings of guilt and frustration related to their pattern of abandoning hobbies and accumulating unfinished projects.
Recurring challenges highlighted in these discussions include the difficulty in maintaining long-term interest in a single hobby, often referred to as "hobby hopping". This cycle of intense initial engagement followed by boredom and abandonment is a pervasive theme, often resulting in a collection of "Unfinished Objects" (UFOs). While hyperfixation can initially facilitate deep involvement in a hobby , this intense focus can lead to neglecting other responsibilities , and the inevitable decline of this intense interest often results in the hobby being dropped. Understimulation and boredom are also significant factors; when a hobby no longer provides sufficient novelty or challenge, interest can wane rapidly , especially if the hobby involves routine or lacks immediate rewards. The financial implications of constantly shifting interests can also be substantial, with forum members frequently discussing the accumulation of unused hobby supplies and equipment. Finally, many individuals express feelings of guilt, frustration, and inadequacy due to their inability to stick with hobbies or the backlog of unfinished projects.
Strategies and Recommendations for Engaging with Hobbies
Within these online forums, individuals with ADHD share a variety of advice and strategies for managing their symptoms in the context of hobbies. A common suggestion is to set realistic expectations and embrace the idea of temporary interests, reframing "hobby hopping" as "hobby collecting" and accepting that it is perfectly acceptable to move on when interest fades. Many find it helpful to view the time and money spent on hobbies, even those abandoned, as not necessarily wasted.
Another frequently shared strategy involves seeking out hobbies that inherently offer novelty and variety. Engaging in activities with endless possibilities for learning new skills or exploring different facets can help sustain interest over time; examples include music , photography , writing , and gaming. Some individuals find it beneficial to rotate between several different hobbies to maintain engagement.
To manage the intense focus of hyperfixation, forum members recommend setting specific time limits for hobby engagement and using reminders or alarms to adhere to these limits , thereby preventing the neglect of other important responsibilities. Incorporating movement and physical activity into or alongside hobbies is also a popular strategy. Combining hobbies with physical activity, such as dancing , martial arts , or active video games, can enhance engagement and provide a much-needed dopamine boost. Listening to audiobooks or podcasts while engaging in physical activities like walking or doing household chores is another suggested approach.
Connecting hobbies with social interaction is frequently recommended. Joining clubs or online communities centered around specific interests can provide added motivation and structure. Engaging in hobbies with friends can also enhance enjoyment and accountability. The concept of body doubling, where an individual works on a task or hobby in the presence of others, is also mentioned as a helpful strategy for maintaining focus.
For those looking to re-engage with past interests, forum members suggest keeping supplies for old hobbies easily accessible and revisiting them when the inclination arises , recognizing that interest in a previously enjoyed hobby may return over time. Other strategies include setting small, achievable goals within a hobby to maintain a sense of progress , using timers to structure engagement through techniques like timeboxing , finding ways to introduce novelty into existing hobbies to reignite interest , and utilizing visual platforms like Pinterest for inspiration and organization. For hobbies with high costs, such as Lego building, exploring rental services or local sharing communities is suggested. When it comes to gaming, opting for games with shorter completion times might be a way to prevent overwhelming long-term commitments. Finally, exploring free or low-cost hobby options can minimize financial risk when trying new activities. Underlying all these strategies is the importance of self-compassion and accepting the neurodivergent traits associated with ADHD, rather than trying to adhere to neurotypical patterns of engagement. Reframing perceived "failures" as simply part of the ADHD experience can be crucial for overall well-being.
Hobbies Frequently Mentioned as Beneficial or Particularly Engaging
Certain types of hobbies are consistently highlighted within ADHD online forums as being particularly well-suited and engaging for individuals with the condition. Creative and artistic pursuits are frequently mentioned, as they allow for self-expression, can be highly absorbing (often leading to hyperfocus), and provide tangible results. Examples such as knitting and crochet are often cited for their repetitive and calming nature , while drawing and painting offer more open-ended creative exploration.
Physical activities are also consistently recommended for their ability to provide an outlet for excess energy, improve focus, and enhance mood. Activities that incorporate an element of challenge or novelty, such as martial arts , rock climbing and bouldering , and various forms of dance , are often favored.
Gaming is another hobby frequently mentioned as beneficial, offering constant stimulation, challenges, and a sense of accomplishment that can align well with hyperfocus tendencies. The inherent novelty and the thrill of discovery within many games are particularly appealing. Intellectual and learning-based hobbies also resonate strongly, catering to the curiosity and desire for knowledge often seen in individuals with ADHD. Reading and exploring specific areas of interest are common examples. Finally, hobbies that result in tangible outcomes, such as crafting, building (like Legos or computers) , or even cooking, provide a satisfying sense of accomplishment.
These hobbies are perceived as beneficial for several reasons. Activities that require concentration, whether physical (like rock climbing ) or mental (like solving puzzles or playing strategy games ), can aid in improving focus and attention span. Hobbies that engage multiple senses, such as playing music or crafting , can be particularly engaging. The sense of accomplishment derived from completing a project or mastering a skill can significantly boost self-esteem. Many of these hobbies can also facilitate a state of "flow," where the individual is fully immersed and energized by the activity. Furthermore, engaging in enjoyable hobbies can effectively reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being. Hobbies that offer a balance between structure and freedom, such as martial arts providing discipline and creative hobbies allowing for open-ended exploration , appear to be particularly well-received.
Conclusion
The landscape of hobbies and interests within online ADHD forums is rich and varied, reflecting the diverse ways individuals with ADHD seek engagement and fulfillment in their leisure time. While a wide array of activities are pursued, common threads emerge, particularly around the need for novelty, creative expression, physical activity, and the potential for deep, focused engagement. A significant challenge remains the maintenance of interest over time, leading to the well-documented phenomenon of "hobby hopping" and the accumulation of unfinished projects. Hyperfixation, while offering periods of intense engagement, often proves unsustainable and can lead to difficulties in balancing hobby pursuits with other life responsibilities.
Despite these challenges, the online ADHD community provides a crucial space for individuals to share their experiences, seek support, and exchange strategies for navigating their engagement with hobbies. The collective wisdom shared within these forums emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, embracing the natural tendency towards novelty, incorporating movement and social interaction where possible, and setting realistic expectations for long-term commitment to any single hobby. Hobbies frequently cited as beneficial tend to be those that align with the core characteristics of the ADHD brain, offering the right balance of stimulation, engagement, and reward. Ultimately, the discussions in these forums highlight a strong desire for self-understanding and acceptance regarding hobby engagement, demonstrating a community striving to find positive and sustainable ways to enjoy leisure activities within the context of the ADHD experience.
