Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome

The quiet, “internal” presentation of ADHD called Inattentive ADHD is a fairly recent understanding of ADHD. Now, a syndrome has been described as Cognitive Disengagement that may occur separately or as part of Inattentive ADHD. To the observer, CDS may be described as appearing spacey, slow to respond, “in their own world”, not present in the moment, passive, socially withdrawn. To understand this as a “difference” in processing might help us find ways to be supportive.

Having worked with a number of clients who show evidence of CDS, I notice that relationships, as well as work, are adversely affected, with partners often increasingly frustrated and impatient. This frustration felt by others is often what brings a client in for coaching support.

The task for the individual is to develop self-awareness around engagement, behavior, and skills. For those around them, it is to learn to adjust expectations to reduce their own impatience, and help create the positive, interactive environment that supports self-awareness, self-direction, and engagement.

This recent CHADD podcast on Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome emphasizes that CDS is not a formal diagnosis, but a description to help parents and teachers begin to recognize this pattern of behavior and learn how to support it.

While the podcast speaks primarily about CDS in children, it is noted that CDS presentation seems to increase as adulthood is reached, with 45% of adults with ADHD having CDS characteristics.

Remediations might include parent training, skills training, and sleep intervention, as well as mindfulness (awareness) training. Finding the right environment in which to thrive is important, as well as recognizing the strengths and gifts of the individual. Stimulant ADHD medications may not be effective for CDS, and Atomexetrine (Strattera), a noropinephrine inhibitor, may be more helpful.

All Things ADHD Podcast:
Cognitive Disengagement SyndromeFeaturing Stephen Becker, PhD, and Joseph Fredrick, PhD https://podcasts.chadd.org/e/cognitive-disengagement-syndrome-all-things-adhd?ct=t(EMAIL_Weekly_11_17_2022_247_COPY_01)&mc_cid=bfc27b6d11&mc_eid=c0eceeaf13

ADHD Life Support is the blog of
Susan McGinnis, CALC of ADHD Impact Coaching LLC
Coaching adults with ADHD www.adhdimpactcoaching.com