Comfort in Repetition: Why Adults with ADHD Love Rewatching Movies, Rereading Books, and Relistening to Music

Do you find yourself drawn to the same movies, TV shows, music, or books over and over again? If you have ADHD, this tendency is more common than you might think. While some might see it as a quirk, there’s more to this behavior than meets the eye. Let’s explore why repetition brings comfort and joy to many adults with ADHD and how you can embrace this tendency positively.

Understanding the Need for Repetition

For adults with ADHD, the world can often feel chaotic and unpredictable. New experiences can sometimes be overwhelming or anxiety-inducing. Repetition offers a sense of familiarity and control. When you know what to expect, it reduces stress and creates a safe mental space where you can relax and enjoy.

The Science Behind Repetition

Predictability and Control

• Reduced Anxiety: Knowing the outcome of a movie or book can significantly reduce anxiety. It eliminates the unpredictability that can be a significant stressor for someone with ADHD.

• Mental Preparation: Familiar content allows you to prepare mentally for what's coming next, making it easier to process and enjoy.

Dopamine Boost

• Reward System: Repeating activities that you enjoy can stimulate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This can be particularly beneficial for those with ADHD, who often have lower levels of dopamine.

• Instant Gratification: Rewatching a favorite show or relistening to a beloved album provides instant gratification, something that can be highly appealing to the ADHD brain.

Focus and Engagement

• Ease of Engagement: Familiar content doesn’t demand as much cognitive effort to follow, allowing you to engage more easily and fully.

• Comforting Routine: Engaging with familiar media can be part of a comforting routine that helps structure your time and provide a sense of stability.

Balancing Repetition with New Experiences

• Scheduled Newness: Try scheduling new activities or media during times when you feel more adventurous. This can help balance your need for familiarity with the excitement of new experiences.

• Mix and Match: Combine familiar and new elements. For example, watch a new episode of a show followed by an old favorite, or intersperse new songs with your go-to playlist.

Creating Rituals

• Daily Routines: Incorporate your favorite repetitive activities into your daily routines. This can provide a comforting structure to your day and help you unwind.

• Mindful Repetition: Practice mindfulness while engaging with familiar content. Pay attention to the details you may have missed before and appreciate the comfort it brings.

Repetition isn’t just a quirk; it’s a powerful tool for managing the complexities of ADHD. By understanding and embracing this tendency, you can use it to create a more balanced and enjoyable life. Whether it’s rewatching a beloved movie, rereading a treasured book, or relistening to a favorite album, these activities can offer comfort, reduce anxiety, and boost your mood. So go ahead and hit play on that familiar song or episode—you’re not just indulging in a habit, you’re nurturing your well-being.