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
- 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.
- 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