Unravelling the Intersection: Dissociative Mood, Psychosis, and Paranoia Among People with ADHD and PTSD
Mental health disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) continue to impact the lives of many people across the globe. ADHD and PTSD, although distinct disorders, often co-occur and share certain symptoms including issues with attention, impulsivity, and emotional regulation (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). This article aims to evaluate the occurrence of dissociative mood, psychosis, and paranoia among people with ADHD and PTSD, focusing on these symptoms' complexity and their impact on those afflicted. Dissociation: A State of Disconnect Dissociation, a term coined to describe a state of altered consciousness, memory, identity, or perception of the environment, is commonly associated with PTSD but less so with ADHD (Mayo Clinic, 2020). These symptoms often manifest as a psychological defence mechanism in response to overwhelmingly stressful or traumatic situations (van der Kolk, 2014). Whi...