by Polsdorfer R

Stress can make symptoms of ADHD worse. ADHD can also make people more sensitive to stress triggers. Finding ways to ease stress can play a big role in an ADHD treatment plan.

General Guidelines for Managing ADHD

At School
  • Sit on an inflated disc cushion to create a physical distraction to improve focus.
  • Decrease noise and clutter.
  • Use checklists and reminders to stay organized.
  • Practice active learning such as underlining, note taking, and reading aloud.
  • Break big jobs down into small tasks.
  • Use habits like fidgeting, pencil tapping, and moving to stay on task.
At Home
  • Create order, structure, and routine at home.
  • Practice good sleep habits by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.
  • Eat a healthful diet. Hunger or poor nutrition can make symptoms worse.

References

About ADHD—overview. Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder website. Available at: https://chadd.org/about-adhd/overview. Accessed May 11, 2022.

ADHD. Kids Health—Nemours Foundation website. Available at: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/adhd.html. Accessed May 11, 2022.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/condition/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd. Accessed May 11, 2022.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd. Accessed May 11, 2022.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-in-children-and-adolescents. Accessed May 11, 2022.

Understanding ADHD: information for parents. Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics website. Available at: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/adhd/Pages/Understanding-ADHD.aspx. Accessed May 11, 2022.

Revision Information

  • Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Kari Kuenn, MD
  • Review Date: 11/2021
  • Update Date: 05/13/2022