Any kind of stressful circumstances can worsen the symptoms of ADHD. As a result, lifestyle changes are an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Improvements in your child’s environment, brought about by behavioral therapy, can reduce symptoms a great deal. Because most cases of ADHD are diagnosed in childhood, many of these lifestyle changes are geared toward helping parents help their children cope with ADHD.

The following recommendations all have the same objective: reduction of stress and distractions to help focus your child’s attention. Children and adults with ADHD are more sensitive to these stressors than the average person.

General Guidelines for Managing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

At School or Place of Employment

  • Modify the environment in an effort to reduce distractions.
  • Decrease noise and clutter.
  • Provide clear instructions, preferably written.
  • Focus on success. Reward your child’s progress and reinforce positive behavior.
  • Help your child get organized with checklists and reminders.
  • Encourage impulse control.
  • Encourage your child to do things he or she is good at.
  • Don’t require your child to perform difficult tasks in public.
  • Encourage active learning, such as underlining, note taking, or reading aloud.
  • Break big jobs down into small tasks.

At Home

  • All guidelines for school and the workplace apply to the home environment, as well.
  • Address family tensions such as spousal conflicts, alcoholism, addiction, and sibling rivalry.
  • Create order, structure, and routine in the home. There is comfort in knowing what is going to happen and that things are where they belong.
  • Provide nourishing meals.
  • Don’t smoke. If you smoke, quit.

Professional Help

  • A family physician should monitor your child’s treatment to detect and treat any problems.
  • A school or employment counselor may be helpful in making alternate educational or work arrangements.
  • Mental health professionals can teach coping skills to help reduce stress and deal with emotional and social problems.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Talk to your family physician or a mental health professional if symptoms worsen or you need help addressing these lifestyle changes.