Managing Stress and ADHD

Stress can feel overwhelming for anyone but if you have ADHD, it can be even tougher to manage. ADHD often brings difficulties with focus, impulsivity and managing emotions, making stress feel like a constant challenge. As part of Stress Awareness Week (4th-8th November), it’s a great time to talk about how to handle stress when you’re living with ADHD.

Understanding stress and ADHD

ADHD brains are constantly buzzing with thoughts, ideas and distractions. This can lead to feeling easily overwhelmed, making everyday stressors feel much bigger than they really are. Stress can also make ADHD symptoms worse, which can then lead to even more stress. It’s a cycle that’s hard to break.

But there are ways to help manage it.

Ways to manage stress

• Break tasks down – Big tasks can feel impossible. Break them into smaller, more manageable steps.
• Set reminders – Use alarms or apps to help you stay on track.
• Take breaks – Make sure to schedule short, regular breaks to avoid burnout.
• Talk to someone – It’s ok to reach out to friends, family or a therapist when things get tough.

November Awareness Days to help you focus on your well-being

November brings several important awareness days and weeks that can help you prioritise your mental health.

• World Kindness Day (13th November): Living with ADHD or any mental health issue can sometimes make you feel like you’re not doing enough. On World Kindness Day, remind yourself to practice self-kindness. This might mean allowing yourself to make mistakes, taking a moment to rest or giving yourself credit for achievements whether they are big or small.
• Self-Care Week (18th-24th November): Self-care is crucial, especially if you have ADHD. During Self-Care Week, take time to think about what really makes you feel calm and centred. This might mean practising mindfulness, getting enough sleep or even just taking time to enjoy a hobby.

How to be kinder to yourself

• Accept your limits – It’s ok not to get everything done.
• Celebrate your efforts – Even small steps forward are still steps forward, give yourself credit.
• Get support when you need it – You don’t have to face stress and or ADHD challenges alone.

If you’re struggling with stress, ADHD or other mental health challenges, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. I’m Maggie, I specialise in and have ADHD, Autism and ARFID. I offer therapy and life coaching to help you navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re looking for ways to manage your stress and ADHD or need ongoing support, I’m here to help.

Take the first step towards a calmer, more balanced life. Reach out today to book a meeting. You deserve to feel in control of your stress and your ADHD. Let’s work together to make that happen.

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