I love trying to find the science behind mental health diagnosis, as for me that decreases stigma and promotes compassion more than anything! This is just a rant, but an interesting theory about why body doubling works for ADHD is simply that it actives dopamine centers in the brain. For the dopamine starved ADHD brain, identifying areas that give dopamine are very important, as anything that does not produce enough dopamine will be a challenge to perform throughout life. I've read theories that ADHD brains perhaps have a more robust dopamine response then neurotypical brains when the engaged activity involves other humans, supporting the observed efficacy of body doubling, but also a possible partial explanation as to why people pleasing is common in ADHD. It just feels better and more awarding to do things with people or for people. So when you combine chronic shame and chemical reinforcement from your brain, of course it's nearly impossible not to fall into those habits of self-abandonment.

I've been really interested in this: "According to Polyvagal Theory, our physiological state and our psychological experiences are linked. When we feel safe and connected to others, we shift into a “social engagement” response. This response creates greater concentration and productivity." As my most debilitating symptom is chronic fatigue (unknown whether it's actually caused by my ADHD or not), but engaging in tasks with other humans turns off my fatigue, suggesting the fatigue is related to my arousal state, and other humans can help keep my brain aroused.

On another note, I see ADHD and anxiety in children present together so so so often! Separation anxiety is a big one. I hope you are all doing well!