Living with ADHD: Strategies and coping skills

A person diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder faces several challenges, regardless of age. Impulsiveness, difficulty focusing and getting organized, poor problem-solving skills, and other characteristics make daily living a challenge with this neurodevelopment condition.

Even if having ADHD can make daily life extremely difficult at times, there are ways to manage the disease and eventually realize one’s potential despite it. These include learning and working with coping skills and strategies.

Try not to be hard on yourself

Develop self-compassion practices. Instead of undervaluing yourself or indulging in self-criticism, practice self-acceptance and kindness towards yourself. These constructive mindsets will undoubtedly inspire and empower you.

Make use of organizing tools

For someone with ADHD, tools like computers, phone apps, and the traditional pen and paper are quite helpful. These can be useful for keeping track of tasks, reminding of important dates, scheduling appointments, and other similar tasks.  Keeping a journal helps, too.

Reduce the amount of distractions

Even though it might be challenging for someone with ADHD to maintain organization and focus, small actions like tidying the house, room, or workplace can make a great difference because a chaotic atmosphere can worsen tension and restlessness. An organized, clutter-free environment lessens anxiety in people with ADHD.

Make a few routine adjustments

To keep things fresh, it’s acceptable to make little adjustments even though it’s ideal for an ADHD person to adhere to a to-do list every day to establish consistency and stability. Remember that the brain of an ADHD individual is drawn to novelty.

Divide difficult activities into manageable chunks

Dividing large, difficult jobs into smaller, more manageable projects or chores is one strategy to help someone with ADHD become more productive. For an ADHD person, working on little projects helps them feel less scared because large jobs tend to overwhelm them and cause procrastination.

Set alarms

For those with ADHD, forgetfulness is a prevalent feature. When these people make use of alarms or clocks, they are able to keep organized and never forget vital things like making doctor’s appointments, paying bills, or taking their meds.

Engage in mindfulness meditation

According to studies, practicing mindful meditation is incredibly beneficial for those with ADHD. When faced with an overpowering emotion, mindfulness assists in quieting the mind. It strengthens one’s capacity to be more self-aware by making them mindful of their emotional condition.

Prioritize your well-being

Making self-care a priority is essential for general health and quality of life, whether or not one has ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD can be significantly reduced for those who practice self-care. Improving daily living involves making time for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of oneself.

The following are a few self-care activities:

  • Maintain a well-balanced diet.
  • Engage in regular exercise.
  • Obtain enough rest.
  • Reduce or abstain from alcohol intake.
  • Give up smoking.

There are ups and downs when dealing with ADHD. Admitting that one has ADHD and calling it a phase is understandable, but acknowledging the illness and engaging in self-compassion exercises are beneficial. Enjoy the little triumphs that you achieve along the road– they will provide you with a boost of confidence and motivation.

Asking for assistance shouldn’t be a sign of weakness; look for support groups that can help you manage your disorder and make positive connections.

Note:

These are just some suggestions that we hope may motivate you and ease your adjustment to ADHD. Keep in mind that every person with ADHD has different experiences, therefore it is best to customize them to fit individual preferences and lifestyles.

If you believe you may have ADHD, call Arbor Wellness at 702-830-9588 to learn more about ways to support yourself and have a better understanding of your feelings.

Sources:

https://futurepsychsolutions.com/blog/7-lifestyle-changes-to-help-with-adhd-treatment/
https://www.verywellmind.com/tips-for-living-with-adhd-as-an-adult-5271569
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/mid-life-adhd-coping-strategies-that-can-help-2021020521862
https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/adhd-coping-skills
https://www.verywellmind.com/living-well-with-adhd-20480

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