Having a routine is especially important for children with ADHD as it helps to make daily functioning more manageable. Routines help children focus on one thing at a time, which can be particularly challenging for children with ADHD as they tend to struggle with their ability to regulate themselves and their focus when so many distractions pull them in different directions.
A regular routine can help to minimize distractions by providing a sense of structure and predictability for the day. It can also help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress caused by the unpredictability of the day. Furthermore, routines can help to create healthy habits, such as getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals, and exercising. This can help to improve their overall physical and mental health.
Recently, my youngest son and I were both diagnosed with ADHD. I am a writer, and he is a grade school student. I particularly have a hard time staying on track, especially with my writing tasks. Sitting still for too long is also difficult, so I try to take breaks to get up and stretch my body.
My son struggles with staying on task too. Specifically with being easily distracted/distractable while the teacher is talking, and he should be listening. This has caused many uncomfortable times for him, and it also affects his grades because he is in a rush to finish his schoolwork.
We both considered medication as we felt we could do better in school and work if we could stay focused longer.
After doing the proper research and meeting with our doctors, we found that getting a prescription for Adderall would work best for me. However, because my son also has Tourette’s, a stimulant for his ADHD will not be suitable as his motor tics will increase dramatically. Instead, we are using Depakote, which works for Tourette’s as well as ADHD.
*Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, two central nervous stimulants that improve focus and reduce impulsivity by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Adderall in 1996.
Consider visiting an online pharmacy for secure delivery and potential financial assistance in obtaining the medication needed.
Should you take medication if you have ADHD?
Not everyone with ADHD needs medicine. But medicine can help most people with ADHD stay focused longer, listen better, and fidget less. People also benefit from therapy to learn and practice skills like staying organized, managing schoolwork, or dealing with stress. Medicine isn’t a shortcut to mastering these skills.
If you have been diagnosed with ADHD, you may wonder whether medication is the right treatment option. Stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed treatments for ADHD and can effectively manage symptoms. However, they are not suitable for everyone. Some people with ADHD find that non-stimulant medications or other therapies are more helpful.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to take medication for ADHD is personal. First, however, you must discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor if you are considering medication. For example, medication can help to improve focus, concentration, and impulsivity, but it is not a cure for ADHD. In addition, side effects are a possibility with any medication. As such, weighing all the factors before deciding on treatment is essential.
Why do people with ADHD struggle with routines?
People with ADHD often struggle to stick to routines because of irregular dopamine levels. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter responsible for reward, mood, and motivation. An imbalance can make it difficult for individuals with ADHD to feel motivated or rewarded by completing tasks. This can make it hard to stay on track with regular daily routines.
If you or someone you love has ADHD, seeking treatment is essential. ADHD can profoundly impact every aspect of life and, if left untreated, can lead to a host of negative consequences.
Relationships may suffer, as ADHD can make communicating effectively and relating to others difficult. You may also experience anxiety and depression due to the challenges posed by ADHD. In addition, you may struggle to succeed in school or hold down a job.
Don’t wait to get the help you need — seek professional treatment for ADHD immediately.
Routines help to improve productivity and focus. When children have a daily routine, it helps keep them motivated and focused on the task at hand and improves their academic performance and overall grades.
Routines can also help children to build relationships with peers and mentors. Having a regular daily routine can help ensure children are taking time for themselves as well as for their family and friends. In addition, it will help to strengthen interpersonal relationships.
Routines can also help provide children with a break from the normal school routine. Summer school can provide children with a different learning experience and help to keep them motivated and engaged in the learning process.
Having and keeping a daily routine has many benefits for children with ADHD. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, create healthy habits, improve productivity and focus, improve interpersonal relationships, improve mental health, increase motivation and discipline, reduce procrastination, boost self-esteem, increase satisfaction with life, and improve sleep quality.
Adults with ADHD may find it challenging too to focus and prioritize, leading to missed deadlines and forgotten meetings or social plans. In addition, the inability to control impulses can range from impatience in waiting in line or driving in traffic to mood swings and outbursts of anger. Taking summer enrichment courses is a way to stay on task and keep a routine for adults as well.
ADHD morning routine checklist
Below is a quick list to reference when creating your own list that will work best for your family’s needs:
- Build in a consistent time to wake up every day
- Do all prep the night before
- Cut out unnecessary distractions
- Make breakfast a priority
- Give each kid their own routine and tasks
- Keep your cool
- Make your weekend routine the same as your weekday routine
- Reward good behavior
- Stick to a morning routine
Why are routines important for children with ADHD?
Routines are important for children with ADHD as they provide structure, reduce stress and anxiety, increase motivation and discipline, and improve focus, productivity, mental health, and interpersonal relationships. Establishing a routine and sticking to it can help children with ADHD reach their full potential and live reasonably happy lives.
Always remember information within this article is meant for entertainment purposes only and is in no way a replacement for professional medical or psychological support. Seek appropriate advice from a healthcare professional should you feel it necessary.