Task Paralysis vs. Procrastination: Understanding the ADHD Freeze
If you've ever felt physically unable to start a task despite desperately wanting to, you aren't 'lazy.' You are likely experiencing task paralysis, a common hurdle in the ADHD experience that feels very different from traditional procrastination.
What is it?
Procrastination is the intentional (though often impulsive) delay of a task to avoid discomfort. Task paralysis, or 'ADHD Freeze,' is an executive function breakdown where the brain becomes overwhelmed by input and loses the ability to prioritize or initiate any movement at all.
Signs & Symptoms
Why does this happen?
In ADHD brains, low dopamine levels and executive dysfunction make it difficult to 'filter' tasks. When the brain can't decide which task is most important, it treats every task as a high-priority threat, triggering the amygdala's freeze response—literally putting you into survival mode.
The Action Plan
Lower the Stakes
Acknowledge that you are in a freeze state. Tell yourself, 'I am not lazy; my brain is overwhelmed.' Reducing the shame lowers the cortisol that keeps you stuck.
The 'One Item' Rule
Forget the whole project. Identify one single physical movement, such as 'pick up the blue pen' or 'open the blank document.'
External Stimuli
Change your sensory environment. Put on headphones with brown noise or upbeat music to provide the background dopamine your brain is searching for.
Stop fighting your brain.
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How HealUp Actually Helps
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AI Task Breakdown
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Execute Mode
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Zero Guilt
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