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 ADHD

At School or Place of Employment

Modify the environment in an effort to reduce distractions:

Sitting on a Disc 'O' Sit cushion may help improve your child's attention in class. The Disc 'O' Sit is a dome-shaped cushion filled with air that requires the child to maintain proper balance.

Some research has shown that behaviors like fidgeting, pencil tapping, and constant movement in adolescents may serve a distinct brain function and help ADHD kids stay alert and on task. Some teachers and schools may take a different approach and allow children to move and fidget in a quiet manner (such as squeeze a ball or stand at the back of the room with work).

At Home

All guidelines for school and the workplace apply to the home environment, as well.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.