How adjusting environmental factors can improve ADHD
Welcome to our healthcare organization's new blog to discuss tips and tricks for people with ADHD. Our first topic is going to discuss how adjusting environmental factors can improve ADHD symptoms.
According to Drechsler (B.S, B.D, G.E, B.G, W.S) In their article "ADHD: Current Concepts and Treatments inChildren and Adolescents," Planning should be the first step in patient treatment rather than pharmacological treatment for ADHD is not a "one-size fits all" and requires individualized planning.
Drechsler discusses Cognitive behavioral therapy as a way to improve an individual's skill set. "CBT and its more specific forms (e.g., social skills training, training of planning and organizational skills, and self-management techniques) have positive effects on behavior, parenting skills, child–parent relationships, and certain daily living skills." (Drechsler, et al. 2020).
It is also encouraged to practice mindfulness and meditation activities such as yoga have shown positive effects on ADHD symptoms. Keeping your environment free from distraction, using planners and therapy are also resources that have been shown to have a positive impact on ADHD symptoms.
For children who are struggling with ADHD, it is important to discuss accommodations to implement with the child's school. According to Non-pharmacologic management ofattention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: a review, "Under Section 504 Plan, there may be specific accommodations that might be provided for the child such as reducing the number of homework problems without decreasing content, providing a quiet place to study, providing simple and clear directions for assignments, providing tests in a quiet place, divide tests into smaller tests, the modifying format of a test, providing more time, and creating communication notebook between parents and teachers."
Although there are no 504 plans for adults in a workspace, adults are protected by the American Disability Act and can request for accommodations to be made in the work environment similar to a classroom setting without this effecting your job. This can include a distraction-free workplace, extended deadlines without repercussions, etc. A Primary care provider can provide medical evidence as to why you need these accommodations and fill out the work places required for the ADA form.
This is a great blog and one that I will continue to follow. I have found myself, as an adult, struggling more and more with ADHD. I am to the point of deciding whether or not to pursue medication for treatment or other alternatives. This post has given me some insight as to other options available. Thank you so much!
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