Why I Love Working at Bonding Health: My Personal Journey

Working at Bonding Health is more than just a job for me; it's a deeply personal and fulfilling journey. As someone who grew up with ADHD and experienced the heavy toll of over-medication, I understand the struggles faced by both children and their parents in managing this condition. My mission at Bonding Health is to offer families hope and alternatives, helping them find joy and stability without relying solely on stimulant medications.

My Personal Experience with ADHD

My childhood was marked by the highs and lows of ADHD, exacerbated by the side effects of medications that were supposed to help but often left me feeling worse. The mood swings, emotional instability, and the constant battle to stay motivated were challenging, not just for me, but also for my parents, who struggled to cope with their own emotional turmoil. I saw firsthand how their moods were affected by the stress of managing my condition, and it pained me to see them so overwhelmed.

The side effects of ADHD medications can be harsh and debilitating. From appetite loss to sleep disturbances, the physical toll is significant. But perhaps even more concerning are the emotional and psychological side effects. I experienced severe mood swings and emotional instability, which made everyday interactions a challenge. These side effects often overshadowed any potential benefits of the medication, leaving me and my parents in a constant state of distress.

This personal history fuels my passion for the work we do at Bonding Health. I feel incredibly grateful and lucky to be part of a team that is dedicated to finding alternative solutions for ADHD management. Our approach focuses on four core pillars: emotional regulation, emotional granularity, motivational enhancement, and reappraisal. These pillars, the gold mine of my co-founder Dr. Lara Honos-Webb’s hard work and research, have so much promsie. 

The Mission of Bonding Health

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is knowing that we are on the cusp of offering families a transformative tool. Our app, currently in development, is designed to provide an innovative approach to managing ADHD through these scientifically backed methods. It’s not just about alleviating symptoms; it’s about enhancing the overall quality of life for both children and their parents.

Emotional Regulation and ADHD

Emotional regulation is one of the most critical aspects of managing ADHD. Children with ADHD often struggle with controlling their emotions, leading to outbursts, frustration, and difficulty in social situations. Our app aims to teach and reinforce emotional regulation skills, helping children learn to manage their emotions in a healthy and constructive manner. By providing tools and techniques for emotional regulation, we empower children to navigate their feelings and reactions more effectively.

Emotional Granularity and Its Impact

Emotional granularity refers to the ability to identify and articulate specific emotions rather than general feelings. This skill is particularly important for individuals with ADHD, who may struggle with understanding and expressing their emotions. By improving emotional granularity, we help children and parents develop a more nuanced understanding of their emotional experiences. This, in turn, leads to better communication and stronger relationships.

Motivational Enhancement: A Key Component

Motivation can be a significant challenge for individuals with ADHD. The condition often makes it difficult to initiate and sustain tasks, leading to frustration and a sense of failure. Our app incorporates motivational enhancement techniques to help users find and maintain their drive. By setting achievable goals and providing positive reinforcement, we aim to boost motivation and build a sense of accomplishment.