ADHD & Backgammon

Hey, my name is Hanna and I have an ADHD syndrome (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). It is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation that are excessive and pervasive, impairing in multiple contexts. I have difficulty concentrating my attention and this brings problems not only to my life, but also to my game. I would like to share this and maybe my own views and observations on this issue will be useful for people like me.

Backgammon has always been a source of security for me, and when something disturbs my peace within this system of learning, playing and interacting, I look for ways to fix this problem. That's why sometimes I feel uncomfortable when I can't fix something in a short time.

If you have noticed that your game in face-to-face matches is very different from your online game, then think about it, maybe it's because of your inner state and your psychology?

During the tournament period, I need to release my accumulated energy, as it interferes with the analysis of the match. My thoughts may change from one to the other, due to the presence of excess energy. These jumps of thoughts have a negative effect on my game.

Also, some tournaments prohibit the use of headphones while playing. This is a big problem for me, because a certain kind of music allows me to abstract from external noise, which partly generates unnecessary thoughts.

During the tournament, I try to find something to do that takes away my energy. It can be tennis, swimming pool or just active dancing. It all helps me to keep my concentration on mental tasks during matches.

Methods of concentration

I've previously experimented with different physical conditions during tournament days. I tried playing completely hungry and not getting enough sleep. It was a very effective condition, but its disadvantage was that such a charge was not enough for long sessions of more than two days.

The hypothalamus produces a neurotransmitter called orexin, which means "appetite" in Greek. Remember, when you are hungry, your appetite increases, then a certain state of arousal and activity comes. We can observe these mechanisms not only in humans, but also in animals. According to the same scheme, they redistribute blood to the gastrointestinal tract and turn on the same neurotransmitter that promotes the search for food. But as soon as a meal has occurred, our parasympathetic nervous system turns on, which begins to suppress the neurotransmitter orexin. Against this background, other hormones such as serotonin and melatonin begin to prevail. Melatonin is mainly produced at night, so if we eat, the effect of light sleep will be present due to melatonin.

After a small number of experiments, I can say with confidence that for long tournament sessions, you need enough sleep and a balanced diet. A month before the tournament, I reduce my intake of harmful carbohydrates and sugar. During the cold season, it is difficult for me to keep active in sports, but I try to compensate for this with proper nutrition. Two days before the event, I resume taking sugar and carbohydrates. My body gets enough nutrients to keep my brain working at new speeds.

But the hardest thing for me is still proper concentration and prevention in these areas.

For the next experiments, I will limit interaction with people two days before the event, as well as during the tournament. By setting a certain mood in myself, I will be able to regulate my thoughts and actions more effectively. Limiting communication will allow me to build a consistent chain in my head and focus on the most important things.

Keep moving, reflect and create.

No mourning, no funeral ©