The Pathological Demand Avoidance of Stardew Valley

Pathological Demand Avoidance, Stardew Valley Routines, and Breaking Mental Health Patterns

In this episode, Cate and Erik sit down to discuss pathological demand avoidance (PDA) and how it affects daily life for adults with ADHD. They explore the challenging cycle of avoiding tasks specifically because they feel like things you're "supposed" to do, even when you genuinely want to do them. Erik shares his personal journey of recognizing PDA patterns in everything from reading books to maintaining routines, and how past experiences with authority figures continue to influence present-day behaviors.

The conversation takes an unexpected turn into how video games, particularly Stardew Valley, can teach valuable lessons about building sustainable routines and breaking the all-or-nothing thinking patterns common in ADHD. They discuss the concept of "practicing" behaviors rather than committing to permanent changes, and how this reframing can help overcome executive function challenges.

Cate and Erik also dive into practical strategies for partners and loved ones who want to support someone with PDA without inadvertently triggering oppositional responses. They explore the delicate balance between encouragement and giving space, and share insights about using character-based approaches inspired by shows like The Rehearsal to build confidence in challenging situations.

Additional topics include the therapeutic value of routine-building in gaming environments, exposure therapy through low-stakes practice, and how understanding your own mental health patterns can lead to breakthrough moments in therapy and personal growth.

(don't get mad we have a new media guy and he told us we have to start writing better podcast descriptions so people can find us on google HE HATES FUN BOOOOO (just kidding we love you) )

#adhd #adhdpodcast