Hygiene with ADHD

[u/Extreme_Foundation66]

Hi to all my ADHD friends!

I have ADHD and I have my whole life struggled with my hygiene.

I hate to talk about this but the few times I have done it with my friends with ADHD I feel less alone so I hope this will have the same effect. I also wanna say that I would appreciate if you kept your judgements and negative comments to yourself (since I’ve also experienced that when talking about this)

First of all, I absolutely hate to shower. It has so many steps, I hate the feeling of water on my body and I really struggle to start. This makes it harder for me to workout cause the thought of taking a shower is so overwhelming.

I also struggle with steps like brushing my teeth and remembering steps in my routine!

Also other weekly things like shaving, cutting my nails!

Please tell me that I’m not alone and if you’re having any advice or anything I would appreciate it! I’m really embarrassed about it!

Update: I’m genuinely so thankful for every single comment under this post! I’ve never felt this seen and understood before. I’m so proud of everyone that has shared their stories and I wish you all the best ❤️

[u/laserpewpewAK]

My wife and I both have ADHD. I don't struggle with this but she does. She likes and wants to be clean but she hates the process of getting clean which makes starting it difficult. What's worked for her is finding ways to make showering less boring- trying new soaps and products, listening to music & podcasts, showering together, having a treat of some kind during/after, sometimes taking a bath instead, anything to make the shower itself less daunting.

[u/Extreme_Foundation66 → u/laserpewpewAK]

Thank you so much for the advice and for sharing this! You do not have to answer this but may I ask about your relationship with your wife since you both have ADHD. Do you have different struggles when it comes to routines/ organization/ planning or how do you get your life together if you get what I mean. I’ve always been told not to date someone who also has adhd even though I usually feel a stronger connection to them since they can relate to my feelings. Again I’m sorry if it’s too personal you do not have to answer!

[u/Objective_Drive_9614 → u/Extreme_Foundation66]

not the same person but my husband and i both have adhd! the hardest issue is that we both struggle with cleaning, but it usually manifests in different way. we've been trying to come up with system that work for both of us better. but it also works out in a way, bcs we often struggle in areas that the other has an easier time in, and vice versa, so it helps balance out also. i wouldn't say to not date someone just bcs they have adhd, it can definitely work out its just gonna take more thoughtful work on both of your parts! we were both diagnosed post marriage but i still wouldn't have it any other way, and no one understands my bad adhd days like he does because well, he's quite literally been there too!