ADHD Awareness Month: Understanding, Supporting, and Thriving with ADHD

Hello, October! It’s ADHD Awareness Month 

October brings crisp air, cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice everything, and festive movie nights. But did you know it also shines a spotlight on a diagnosis that impacts millions of people of all ages? That’s right—October is ADHD Awareness Month.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect focus, time management, memory, and organization. While every individual with ADHD experiences it differently, many share common challenges that can impact their daily lives. This month, we’re taking a moment to raise awareness and share a few simple, supportive strategies that can make a meaningful difference.

Whether you’re someone living with ADHD or supporting someone who is, here are a few tips that may help:

1. Stay Organized with Tools That Work for You

Organization can be a major challenge with ADHD, especially when memory issues are involved. Try:

• Using a planner or digital calendar to track appointments, tasks, and to-dos.
• Setting up a “landing zone” near your front door—a bowl or basket for keys, wallets, and other daily essentials to avoid last-minute scrambles.
• Taking advantage of phone apps for reminders, timers, or checklists to keep you on track.

A little structure goes a long way—and small systems like these can significantly reduce stress and improve daily flow.

2. Move Your Body—In Ways That Feel Good

Physical activity doesn’t just boost physical health—it can improve mood, focus, energy, and executive functioning (the brain’s ability to plan, organize, and manage tasks).

No gym membership? No problem. Try:

• A brisk walk around your neighborhood or at a local park.
• Free workout videos online.
• Stretching or bodyweight exercises at home.

Consistency is key, not intensity. Find something that feels sustainable and enjoyable for you.

3. Break Big Tasks into Smaller Steps

Large goals or to-dos can quickly feel overwhelming, often leading to avoidance or procrastination. One effective approach is to:

• Break down the task into bite-sized steps.
• Celebrate each small win.
• Take short breaks between tasks to refresh and reset.

This method reduces mental load and makes progress feel more manageable and more motivating.

4. Limit Distractions in Your Environment

Distractions are everywhere and they can derail even the best intentions. Consider:

• Working in a quiet, clutter-free space.
• Keeping your phone on silent or in another room while focusing.
• Using noise-cancelling headphones or background white noise for better concentration.
• Tidying up your workspace to reduce visual distractions and support clearer thinking.

Your environment can support your focus or sabotage it. A few tweaks can make a big difference.

Final Thoughts

ADHD Awareness Month is a great opportunity to learn more about the condition, bust myths, and discover helpful tools and strategies. Everyone’s experience with ADHD is unique, and finding what works for you may take time and experimentation.

Let’s use this month not just to spread awareness, but to empower ourselves and others to navigate ADHD with compassion, creativity, and confidence.