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I Hate The Holidays

Writer's picture: dana storinodana storino

Yes, it’s true. I’m basically the Grinch.

I hate the holidays because I have ADHD. It’s as simple as that. There’s truly no other explanation for my hatred. I know there are neurotypicals that also hate the holidays and their reasons are completely valid as well. ‘Tis the season we bond.

How can I enjoy something that gives me 10k more responsibilities on top of the 10k I already have, when I lack the ability to organize and multi-task properly?

I have kids, so naturally I grit my teeth and smile through the pain. I’m just being real. I would love to sit here and tell you that all the hard work and mental exhaustion is totally worth it, but I honestly don’t think it is. I think it totally sucks.

It’s like every single thing I suck at is encompassed by the holidays; planning, organizing, neatness, structure. I feel like it’s the time of year that I’m put to the neurotypical test.

I can hear (Karen) say, “I’ve got an idea! Let’s add an elf you have to move nightly! If you don’t move it the kids will cry!” Karen’s friend adds, “Let’s make it even more complicated and add multiple elves that do naughty things in the middle of the night! These neurodiverse parents won’t stand a chance!”

They are right! How many times did I have to make up a lame excuse why the elf didn’t move? Like the majority of the holiday season. Thanks Karen and Karen’s friend!

I also hate school spirit week.

Why grammar school? Why must you top my stress sundae with the cherry—suggesting my kids wear the proper attire for each day of spirit week? And don’t tell me not to worry about it. You don’t have a kid in front of you crying because he doesn’t have a grinch shirt for grinch day!

Holiday cards are horrible too. I haven’t done them in three years and I’m not sorry. Coordinating outfits, deciding whether to get a professional photographer or do it yourself. Then printing and sending them. Who has time for this? I work forty hours a week. If you wanna look at my family, hop on Facebook.

Everyday life is tough enough for someone who is neurodiverse. Holidays are stressful and exacerbate our disability. I’ve experienced ADHD paralysis at least six times already.

If you know someone with ADHD don’t be surprised if they hate the holidays and don’t expect a holiday card. If they are smiling, they are faking it. Trust me, I know.

Stay Squirrely,

Dana

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