# EP. 49: Why You Can't Start Tasks and The Fight or Flight Response That's Really Running the Show

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/adhd-with-jenna-free-7252095/ep-49-why-you-can-t-start-tasks-and-the-fight-or-flight-response-that-s-really-running-the-show
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/adhd-with-jenna-free-7252095/ep-49-why-you-can-t-start-tasks-and-the-fight-or-flight-response-that-s-really-running-the-show.md
Podcast: [ADHD with Jenna Free](https://stenobird.com/podcast/adhd-with-jenna-free-7252095)
Published: 2026-03-02T11:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://86ec717b-8213-494f-90a6-575b5c86795e.libsyn.com/ep-49-why-you-cant-start-tasks-and-the-fight-or-flight-response-thats-really-running-the-show
Audio file: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/86ec717b-8213-494f-90a6-575b5c86795e/EP._49_.mp3?dest-id=4814301
Processing state: not_requested
JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/adhd-with-jenna-free-7252095/episodes/ep-49-why-you-can-t-start-tasks-and-the-fight-or-flight-response-that-s-really-running-the-show
Duration seconds: 1477

## Resource

What if task initiation isn't actually an ADHD brain problem? What if the reason you can't start tasks is because your brain is stuck in fight or flight? In this episode, I break down why task initiation struggles are really about dysregulation , not dopamine deficiency or executive dysfunction. When you're in survival mode, your brain needs urgency, novelty, challenge, or interest just to get moving. When you regulate, you can just decide to do things. Download the free ADHD Regulation Guide -- www.adhdwithjennafree.com/adhdguide Want to dive into this work to reduce symptoms and make life more enjoyable? ADHD Groups are now open -- www.adhdwithjennafree.com/groups Pre-order "The Simple Guide to ADHD Regulation" - www.jennafree.com/book Pre-purchased The Simple Guide to ADHD Regulation? Join our free book club -- www.adhdwithjennafree.com/bookclub Connect with Me Instagram TikTok

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## Transcript

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