Hyperfixation in teens can lead to serious challenges in their social lives, jobs, academic studies, and extracurricular activities. Commonly referred to as ‘hyperfocus,’ this state of extreme engagement makes it difficult for individuals to shift their focus once it has been set. This can be frustrating for parents, who want to see their teens live a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Thankfully, there are ways to ease the symptoms of hyperfixation and encourage healthy and sustainable habits.
Is your teen struggling with mental health challenges? We’re here to help. Call us at Beachside today or visit our admissions page to learn more about our personalized programs and start your teen’s journey toward healing.
What is Hyperfixation?
Hyperfixation refers to when a person becomes solely focused on one activity or idea and is unable to think or do anything else until they finish or are forced to step away. This condition is commonly associated with those who have ADHD, autism, anxiety, or depression. In most cases, those struggling with hyperfixation focus on video games, TV, people, places, hobbies, thoughts, or food.
Though some people may consider this state of intense focus to be productive, it can lead to issues in everyday life. Some individuals may struggle to achieve accomplishments or finish tasks outside of their current fixation. Eventually, this can mean they are unable to successfully function in the real world.
Signs & Symptoms of Hyperfixation
Hyperfixation can reveal itself in a variety of ways. However, specific indicators can be cited across the board. Symptoms of hyperfixation in teens include:
- Difficulty discussing topics not related to current hyperfixation
- Trouble breaking attention
- Poor self-care
- Neglecting family members and friends
- Severe lack of social awareness
- Being completely engaged in hobbies such as playing computer or video games
- Trouble engaging with others in a meaningful way
Causes of Hyperfixation
Though there is not one known cause of hyperfixation in teens, certain individuals may be at a higher risk of struggling with periods of extreme focus. These conditions are highlighted below.
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Individuals with ADHD are likely to become hyperfocused on many aspects of life. These may include projects, Television shows, computer or video games, and books. Learn more about how ADHD affects teenagers.
- Depression: For those battling depression, hyperfixation may double as a coping strategy. This intense state of engagement may help pull their attention away from the melancholy feelings affecting their daily lives.
- Anxiety: Similar to depression, hyperfixation may be an escape for those with an anxiety disorder. Though not a sustainable solution, it distracts them from unpleasant feelings of worry and distress. Learn more about the six types of anxiety disorders.
- Autism: Those with autism may be more likely to hyperfixate on people. This strong attachment can be soothing and satisfy the feeling that something is missing in their lives.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): OCD is associated with obsessions and compulsions. By hyperfixating on other activities or ideas, individuals may be able to temporarily push away OCD symptoms.
Furthermore, hyperfixation is also common in individuals who have sensitivities or abnormalities with their vision and hearing as this can interfere with their overall perception.
Types of Hyperfixation
Depending on their personality, interests, potential mental health challenges, family dynamics, and history, teens may become hyperfixated on different things. Common types of hyperfixation include:
Hyperfixation on Hobbies
Though hobbies can be a healthy and creative outlet, spending too much time on them can be problematic. When teens become too consumed in hobbies or projects, they may ignore other aspects of their lives. This can hurt their relationships and academic progress.
Hyperfixation on Thoughts
Breaking a certain train of thought can be very difficult when a person becomes hyperfocused on it. This can make it hard to connect socially or focus on more pressing matters. Furthermore, this type of hyperfixation may be very draining for the individual as the thought may be unpleasant.
Hyperfixation on a Person
Typically when an individual becomes hyperfocused on another person, it is due to a strong sense of attachment. However, this can be positive or negative. Properly managing this hyperfixation is crucial to help teens establish healthy boundaries and communicate effectively in relationships.
Hyperfixation on Food
When a teen becomes hyperfixated on a certain food or meal, it may be all that they eat. This results in nutritional deficits, which can lead to poor health—especially because teenagers are still growing and can greatly benefit from a well-balanced diet.
Hyperfixation on Shows
By hyperfixating on TV shows, teens may be able to escape the stresses of their lives. This avoidance is not healthy. It can keep them from actively participating in real-life and feeling a sense of fulfillment.
Ways to Stop Hyperfixation
Because hyperfixation is behavioral and often a strategy to distract from the stresses of life, it is beneficial for teens struggling with mental health challenges, ADHD, and autism to engage in regular therapeutic sessions. This helps them to process their emotions and frustrations in a healthy way. As a result, they may no longer feel the need to hyperfixate. Additionally, therapists can teach them strategies to identify and correct their behavior when they do become hyperfocused. Additional strategies that may aid in helping your teen manage hyperfixation include:
- Encouraging mindfulness practices
- Setting time limits (specifically on TV, gaming, & social media use)
- Practicing meditation
- Developing and adhering to a consistent schedule
- Learning ways to stay organized
- Avoiding screen time or hobbies before bed
Find Help for Your Teen in Malibu, CA!
We understand how badly you want your child to live a well-rounded and happy life. At Beachside Teen, we are dedicated to helping each person who walks through our doors achieve the quality of life they deserve. Our compassionate therapists are thoroughly experienced in treating mental health disorders and can help your child find healthy ways to manage hyperfixation. To learn more about our programs or to get started today, give us a call or visit our admissions page.