Like you could just continue doing that one thing for hours and hours without stopping?
That’s what hyperfixation can feel like.
Hyperfixation can be both highly beneficial and detrimental depending on the context.
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What Is Hyperfixation?
Both autistic people and those with ADHD often experience hyperfixation.
This language suggests that hyperfixation is a solely negative, pathological experience.
What Is Hyperfocus?
However, hyperfocus does not necessarily involve the individuals special interests.
Shifting between tasks is challenging for people who experienceexecutive dysfunction, including both autistics and those with ADHD.
Hyperfixation is much more intense and can lead to losing track of time and ones environment.
Many autistic people have special interests,or topics which strongly intrigue them.
Dr. Halpern, shared, Hyperfixation comes up whenever someone intensely engages in a special interest.
It is more common for neurodivergent individuals to have highly specialized interests or SPINS.
This kind of thinking needs to be reframed.
In other words, hyperfixation can be good for your mental health.
This usually happens when someone is working to accomplish something specific.
Many autistic people and those with ADHD report difficulty forming and maintaining social relationships.
Remember that your special interests are not bad or wrong, and you might even benefit from experiencing hyperfixation!
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American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Ed, Text Revision.
Washington, D.C.: 2022.
Jordan CJ, Caldwell-Harris CL.Understanding differences in neurotypical and autism spectrum special interests through internet forums.Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
2012;50(5):391-402.
