Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often grapple with feelings of guilt and shame stemming from perceived underachievement and societal misunderstandings. These emotions can lead to maladaptive coping mechanisms, including substance use and addictive behaviors. Moreover, the presence of trauma can exacerbate these challenges, creating a complex interplay between ADHD symptoms and emotional distress.
To effectively address these issues, a multifaceted therapeutic approach is essential:

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): This psychotherapy technique is designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. By processing these memories, EMDR helps reduce their lingering effects, allowing individuals to develop healthier coping mechanisms.
• Ego States Therapy: This modality involves exploring the various facets of an individual's personality, known as "ego states." By understanding and integrating these parts, clients can resolve internal conflicts and reduce feelings of shame and guilt.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them. By committing to actions aligned with personal values, clients can navigate the challenges of ADHD and addiction more effectively.
• Structured Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Addiction: This structured approach helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to addictive behaviors. By developing healthier thinking and behavior patterns, clients can manage ADHD symptoms and reduce reliance on substances.

By combining these therapeutic modalities, individuals with ADHD, trauma, and/ or addictions can address underlying emotional and behavioral issues, leading to improved mental health and a more fulfilling life.

References:
Eleanor Health. (2023, September 1). How to reduce the guilt, shame, and stigma of addiction. https://www.eleanorhealth.com/blog/how-to-reduce-the-guilt-shame-and-stigma-of-addiction
EMDR Masterclass. (2003). EMDR and Ego State Therapy. https://emdrmasterclass.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/EMDR-and-Ego-state-Therapy.pdf
Psych Central. (2020, March 4). ADHD and shame: Why it happens and what to do. https://psychcentral.com/adhd/reducing-one-of-the-most-painful-symptoms-of-adhd
Revitalize Mental Health. (2022, September 15). EMDR ego states and their functions. https://www.revitalizementalhealth.com/what-are-emdr-ego-states-and-their-functions/
Shapiro, R. (2019, May 16). My history with ego state therapy. https://www.emdrsolutions.com/2019/05/16/my-history-with-ego-state-therapy/
Psychology Today. (2024, March 28). Understanding ADHD: Navigating guilt and shame. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/here-there-and-everywhere/202403/understanding-adhd-navigating-guilt-and-shame
EMDR Works. (n.d.). EMDR as a special form of ego state psychotherapy: Part one. https://www.emdrworks.org/Downloads/Ego%20State%20sfesp1.pdf
Medical News Today. (2023, January 3). Is there a link between ADHD and trauma. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/adhd-and-trauma
Grove Treatment. (2022, November 15). EMDR therapy in addiction treatment: Meaning, benefits and process. https://grovetreatment.com/addiction/treatment/therapy/emdr/
White River Manor. (2023, September 1). Shame and addiction: How feelings of guilt and shame fuel addiction. https://www.whiterivermanor.com/news/shame-and-addiction/
EMDR Magazine. (2013). Integrating EMDR and ego state treatment for clients with trauma. https://emdrmagazine.nl/EM2013-2/Integrating%20EMDR%20and%20Ego%20State%20Treatment%20%28Forgash%20and%20Knipe%2C%202012%29.pdf
Origins Texas Recovery. (2024, October 15). Complex PTSD and ADHD in adults. https://www.originstexas.com/blog/complex-ptsd-and-adhd-in-adults/
IFEMDR. (2013). EMDR and ego state therapy. https://www.ifemdr.fr/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/michael-paterson-emdr-ego-states-2.pdf
Scott Shapiro, M.D. (2017, May 15). The missing link in thriving with adult ADHD: Overcoming shame. https://www.scottshapiromd.com/adult-adhd-and-overcoming-shame/
Priory Group. (n.d.). Types of therapy: CBT, DBT, EMDR, and more. https://www.priorygroup.com/our-services/types-of-therapy
Cincinnati Center for DBT. (2022, September 1). ADHD: Self-blame, poor self-esteem, and shame. https://www.cincinnaticenterfordbt.com/adhd-self-blame-poor-self-esteem-and-shame/
 

In a world increasingly filled with division, noise, and uncertainty, many of us find ourselves asking: Where did Mr. Rogers go? Fred Rogers, the gentle, thoughtful creator of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, represented a kind of leadership and kindness that seems all too rare today. His dedication to children, his unwavering belief in the power of kindness, and his commitment to public service left an indelible mark on American culture. But his influence extends beyond nostalgia—his virtues and thoughtful characteristics remain a beacon of hope and guidance for how we can navigate today’s world.

A Champion for ChildrenFred Rogers was not just a television host; he was an advocate, an educator, and a friend to generations of children. He understood childhood as a crucial time of emotional development and worked tirelessly to create content that was both meaningful and nurturing. At a time when children’s television was often loud, chaotic, and commercially driven, Rogers provided a safe haven where children felt heard, valued, and respected. His slow, deliberate way of speaking was intentional—he wanted children to feel seen and understood, never rushed or dismissed.
Defending Public BroadcastingOne of Rogers’ most memorable moments of advocacy came in 1969 when he testified before the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Communications. At the time, President Nixon’s administration sought to cut funding for the newly formed Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). Rogers, with his signature gentle yet resolute demeanor, spoke directly to Senator John Pastore about the importance of public television, particularly in shaping the emotional well-being of children.

Instead of arguing with facts and figures alone, Rogers recited the lyrics to one of his songs, What Do You Do with the Mad That You Feel?, emphasizing the necessity of helping children manage their emotions constructively. His heartfelt testimony so moved the committee that they decided not to cut PBS funding, instead allocating the full $20 million originally requested. This moment exemplified Rogers' ability to advocate effectively while maintaining his unwavering commitment to kindness and sincerity.

Working with Government to Support Children’s ProgramsRogers’ influence extended far beyond his television show. Throughout his career, he worked with policymakers to promote initiatives supporting children’s mental health and education. He believed deeply in the responsibility of both government and society to nurture the emotional and social development of young people. Whether it was through testifying before Congress, supporting funding for early childhood education, or advising on media policies that impacted children, Rogers used his platform to ensure that young minds were prioritized and protected.

The Legacy of Mr. RogersFred Rogers’ values—compassion, patience, and an unshakable belief in the goodness of people—seem to be in short supply today. He modeled a way of engaging with the world that emphasized listening, understanding, and responding with kindness. He encouraged children (and adults) to acknowledge their feelings, to see the value in themselves, and to treat others with respect and care.
So, where did Mr. Rogers go? While the man himself may no longer be with us, his legacy endures. It lives in every act of kindness, in every moment of patient listening, in every effort to create a world that prioritizes the well-being of children. His life reminds us that we, too, can choose to be neighbors—thoughtful, compassionate, and willing to make the world just a little bit gentler.
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If you find yourself longing for the kind of world Mr. Rogers envisioned, take a page from his book: slow down, listen, be kind, and remember that every person you meet is worthy of love and respect.
Shannon Haus, LMHC, ADHD-PT

Where Has the Moral Leadership Gone?
Throughout history, moral leadership has served as a guiding force in times of uncertainty and division. Leaders who placed the well-being of the people above partisan agendas and personal gain have left lasting legacies that continue to inspire. Today, however, many Americans find themselves questioning whether such leadership still exists. As political polarization deepens, trust in government declines, and ethical decision-making takes a backseat to political expediency, we must ask: Where has the moral leadership gone?
To answer this question, it helps to look back at leaders who commanded respect across party lines and prioritized the greater good. These were individuals who acted with integrity, sought unity, and led with a sense of moral authority. Let’s examine a few notable examples.
1. Abraham Lincoln (1861-1865)
Lincoln led the United States through its most divisive period—the Civil War—without losing sight of his moral compass. Despite immense opposition, he remained steadfast in his commitment to ending slavery, preserving the Union, and fostering reconciliation. His ability to articulate a vision for unity and justice, most famously in the Gettysburg Address and his second inaugural address, won him respect from both sides of the aisle, even if some were initially resistant to his policies. His leadership was marked by humility, empathy, and an unwavering dedication to the principles of democracy and equality.
2. Theodore Roosevelt (1901-1909)
A champion of the common people, Roosevelt sought to curtail the power of big business and protect the rights of workers. His progressive reforms, including trust-busting and consumer protections, demonstrated his commitment to fairness and justice. His ability to work with both Republicans and Democrats, as well as his emphasis on national unity, made him a respected figure across party lines. Roosevelt’s leadership was defined by a sense of duty to the American people and a relentless pursuit of ethical governance.
3. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953-1961)
As a former general and wartime leader, Eisenhower understood the importance of national unity. His presidency was marked by bipartisan cooperation and a focus on the collective good. He championed the construction of the Interstate Highway System, supported civil rights initiatives, and warned against the dangers of excessive military-industrial influence in his farewell address. His leadership style was pragmatic, thoughtful, and grounded in a desire to serve all Americans, not just one political faction.
4. John F. Kennedy (1961-1963)
Kennedy’s ability to inspire the nation with his vision of progress, public service, and unity was unparalleled. His call to action—"Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country"—resonated with Americans from all walks of life. He navigated international crises, including the Cuban Missile Crisis, with a balance of strength and diplomacy. His leadership encouraged a spirit of civic engagement and responsibility that transcended party lines.
5. Barack Obama (2009-2017)
In an era of increasing polarization, Obama’s message of hope and unity appealed to both Democrats and Republicans. While his policies were met with political opposition, his ability to lead with dignity, compassion, and moral clarity set him apart. His emphasis on empathy, civil discourse, and bringing people together demonstrated his commitment to ethical leadership. His farewell address urged Americans to seek common ground and uphold democratic values, reinforcing the need for moral leadership in governance.
The Decline of Moral LeadershipIn contrast to these historical examples, today’s political landscape is marked by division, misinformation, and self-serving agendas. Many leaders prioritize short-term political victories over long-term national unity. The erosion of trust in institutions, the rise of hyper-partisanship, and the spread of inflammatory rhetoric have contributed to a leadership crisis. Rather than prioritizing the common good, too many politicians cater to extreme factions, engage in personal attacks, and neglect the fundamental responsibilities of governance.
Restoring Moral LeadershipMoral leadership is not lost—it can be reclaimed. It requires leaders who are willing to:

• Put the People First: True leaders act in the interest of the entire nation, not just their political base.
• Speak with Integrity: Honesty, transparency, and ethical decision-making must replace deception and political posturing.
• Promote Unity, Not Division: A nation cannot thrive if its leaders encourage discord. Encouraging civil discourse and finding common ground are essential.
• Lead by Example: Leaders must embody the values they expect from others—compassion, service, and commitment to the greater good.

As citizens, we also play a role in demanding moral leadership. By holding leaders accountable, supporting candidates with integrity, and fostering a culture of respect and empathy in our communities, we can help restore the standard of leadership that history has shown to be possible.
In uncertain times, it is more important than ever to reflect on the leaders who have shaped our nation through wisdom, courage, and a commitment to justice. Their examples remind us that moral leadership is not an outdated ideal but an urgent necessity.
If you are struggling with feelings of anxiety, disillusionment, or uncertainty in today’s political climate, know that you are not alone. Seeking support and community can help navigate these times with clarity and resilience.
Shannon Haus, LMHC, ADHD-PT