Making Use of ADHD

From interfering in work and your studies but serving to help in creative endeavors, ADHD can be a mixed bag providing fulfillment in creative tasks or increased stress and frustration with tasks that require focus and concentration. Here are a few ways to help manage it...

Disclaimer: Before undertaking any dietary or lifestyle changes, please consult with your physician for appropriateness and additional guidance. The information here is just that...information for educational purposes only, not to provide medical advice or treatment...

1. Accept the possibility...

Whether diagnosed or not, if you have difficulty concentrating or focusing, you may have ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) - "ADD" for short. If not diagnosed, undergo the assessment as soon as possible. Don't declare a diagnosis as a "death sentence" - most people do well with ADHD when applied and if you are a creative type it can be a sort of 'helper'. Even if you aren't a creative person, ADHD can be managed in order to fulfill your goals but obviously you have to get diagnosed.

2. Access the severity...

Accessing the severity of your ADHD is key to determining the appropriate treatment and to gauge when their has been success in treatment. EHC will work with you to assess your severity, assist with finding a counselor when needed and provide medications as appropriate for the severity of your condition.

3. Start on medications if needed...

This will be determined based on your need which includes your severity and the likelihood of a poor outcome. For example, if you are a student - ADHD may hinder your efforts to do your best in school - some medications can help with focus but require a prescription. Some patients with ADHD will also require counseling to assist with concentration/focus or other behavioral disorders that may make ADHD worse.

4. Meditate regularly...

Medications are usually just the quick fix - as part of the long-term solution the most important thing to start right now, meditation can help you develop the focus and concentration you need. Beware, it isn't magic as you have to work at it. EHC recommends you start with 1) identifying a time of day to do it, 2) begin with at least five minutes of dedicated meditation time and 3) meditate as often as possible and 4) build on the time amount as you progress. Over time you will see that your ability to concentrate and even complete tasks is improved and you'll be thankful you started.

5. Become an avid daily planner...

Next, start and keep a daily planner - writing out your daily goals (even your weekly goals) is another important step as having something written out and firm will also help you recruit much needed will power and focus. It will keep you grounded and help keep you from floating off to the next project.

6. Break up tasks...

After you define your goals, break them down into small tasks that you can do - this will make any daunting task seem much easier to accomplish which will boost your confidence which will boost your willpower and focus and allow you to prosper. Also helps you prioritize while your medications work and is a good habit to develop to make the most out of your meditation efforts.

7. Exercise regularly...

ADHD causes a lot of restlessness and is in fact one of its central symptoms, use it and exercise regularly. The boost in endorphins will help with focus and concentration and it will even serve as a form of meditation for your mind and body. So if you feel restless or that over abundance of energy surging, use exercise to work it all out.

Disclaimer: Before undertaking any dietary or lifestyle changes, please consult with your physician for appropriateness and additional guidance. The information here is just that...information for educational purposes only, not to provide medical advice or treatment...