The identification and articulation of mental conditions is a complex and excruciatingly slow process. As our collective understanding of mental functioning develops, so does how we define different conditions. Up until very recently, individuals who might be described as “day-dreamy,” would often be told they have ADHD, especially if they have difficulty focusing, have challenges completing tasks, and reduced motivation.
Through tireless efforts, researchers and experts like Russell Barkley, Ph.D. (Visit his site here) have posited and developed compelling evidence that ADHD in fact may not be a valid diagnosis for folks who meet the above description. He and others have suggested that rather, this “day-dreamy” presentation is indicative of a condition called Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome (previously known as Sluggish Cognitive Tempo). As of yet, the mainstream of practitioners (including medical professionals, therapists and coaches) are not well educated on the condition. Nevertheless, it is suspected that a significant portion of people diagnosed with ADHD actually better fit the Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome profile. Furthermore, it is possible that many individuals have Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome and because they were missing stereotypical tip-offs of ADHD (like impulsivity, hyperactivity, or behavioral issues), they were told they do not meet diagnostic criteria for an attention related condition.
There is considerable discussion currently about the level to which Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome is distinct from ADHD, and whether it requires different methodologies to treat from a medical perspective. We expect to learn significantly more in the coming years, and Dr. Russell Barkley (for one) is tirelessly working to build awareness of the condition. Nevertheless, while as a coach, Joe Kanengiser does not diagnose conditions like ADHD or Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome, he does provide executive function coaching to for these conditions.
If you suspect you have Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome, or think you may have been told incorrectly that you have ADHD, coaching can help, even without a diagnosis. Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome is responsive to similar types of skill building that we utilize in working with ADHD or Autism, particularly when an individualized and evidence based plan is developed and instituted mutually between coach and client. To learn more, feel free to reach out!
