"Manage", defined

Manage verb "to succeed in doing something, especially something difficult" (from the Cambridge Dictionary).  

Managing ADHD is a process, not something done once, but every day. Naturally, some days go better than others.  If you've just been diagnosed or even if you've known for a while but want a refresher, check out these basic guidelines for managing ADHD.   

Get a Good Map: learn about ADHD                          (an ongoing project)

• Read: experts’ books, websites – authors like Tuckman, Barkley, Solden, Sakarsis, and Levrini 
• Listen: podcasts – ex.: adultadhdbook.com, addtalkradio.com
• Watch: videos – YouTube/Vimeo, totallyadd.com
• Discuss: support groups – CHADD.org, ADDA.org, online support communities

Get Effective Treatment

• Medication: for most ADHDers, medication ranges somewhere between helpful to essential. Give it a try and ideally, don’t give up til you find what works
• Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is usually a good fit, but be sure your therapist really knows about ADHD and can provide direction and guidance
• Coaching: helps you figure out the steps to take & then actually take them!
• Deal: with related conditions like anxiety & depression. The majority of people with ADHD also have significant anxiety - treat the ADHD and the anxiety often gets better. Who knew?

Create a 'Prosthetic Environment'

• ADD friendly ways to run your life: time/task management, organization
  
• Backup brain: use planners, calendars, alarms, apps
  
• Write things down: and give up expecting yourself to remember to remember, already!
  
• Accommodations, as needed: it’s truly okay to level the playing field
  

Develop ADHD Friendly Habits and Skills

• Mindfulness: an antidote for stress/anxiety, this simple practice trains your brain to concentrate/focus
• Sleep: to de-fragment your brain, so put down that $#^% device & go to bed!
• Exercise:  it’s like MiracleGrow for your mind & provides major stress relief
• Nutrition: go for Omega 3s, low glycemic foods & protein at breakfast
• Clean Living: ease up on the intoxicants, get active outside, have fun - laugh a lot
• Attitude: it’s about progress, not perfection, aim to improve your 'batting average' (see discussion of "Compassion & Accountability" earlier in this blog)