Adhd how to organize
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Effective Strategies for Organizing with ADHD
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often presents significant challenges in organizational skills, impacting both academic and daily life. Research has identified several effective strategies and interventions to help individuals with ADHD improve their organizational abilities.
Organizational Skills Training for Children with ADHD
Group-Based Interventions
Organizational skills training (OST) has shown promising results in improving the organizational abilities of children with ADHD. A study conducted in Denmark demonstrated that group-based OST for children and their parents over a 10-week period significantly improved organizational skills, which are crucial for academic success and overall functional outcomes. This approach emphasizes the importance of addressing organizational deficits early, as these issues tend to persist and worsen with age.
Behavioral Interventions
Behavioral interventions targeting organization, time management, and planning (OTMP) have also been effective. A randomized controlled trial comparing OST and a performance-based intervention (PATHKO) found that both interventions led to significant improvements in organizational skills, academic performance, and family functioning. OST, in particular, showed superior results in several measures, including the Children's Organizational Skills Scales (COSS). These findings highlight the potential of structured behavioral interventions in mitigating organizational challenges in children with ADHD.
Technological Aids for Adults with ADHD
Smartphone Applications
For adults with ADHD, integrating technology into daily routines can be highly beneficial. An online intervention called "Living SMART" utilized smartphone applications to help adults with ADHD organize their everyday lives. Participants who received this intervention showed significant improvements in attention and organizational skills compared to a control group. This suggests that digital tools, combined with guided support, can effectively enhance organizational abilities in adults with ADHD.
Meta-Cognitive Therapy
Meta-cognitive therapy, which focuses on enhancing time management, organization, and planning through cognitive-behavioral principles, has also proven effective. A study involving adults with ADHD found that those who underwent meta-cognitive therapy showed significant improvements in ADHD symptoms and organizational skills compared to those who received supportive therapy. This approach addresses both cognitive and emotional aspects, making it a comprehensive intervention for adults struggling with ADHD.
School-Based Interventions
Homework and Organization Programs
School-based interventions, such as the Homework, Organization, and Planning Skills (HOPS) program, have been successful in improving organizational skills among middle school students with ADHD. Implemented by school mental health providers, these brief interventions led to significant improvements in homework management and organizational behaviors, as rated by parents and teachers. Such programs demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of integrating organizational skills training into the school environment.
Comparison of Interventions and Accommodations
A study comparing different interventions and accommodations for middle school students with ADHD found that those who received organization training were more likely to maintain binder organization and take accurate notes compared to those who received accommodations like extended time or copies of teacher notes. This indicates that active skill-building interventions may be more effective than passive accommodations in enhancing organizational skills.
Parenting Interventions
Let’s Get Organized (LGO)
For parents with ADHD, the Let’s Get Organized (LGO) program has shown to improve time management and organizational skills, which in turn positively impacts parenting and family life. Parents who participated in LGO reported more active parenting and better family relations due to improved daily time management. This underscores the importance of supporting parents with ADHD in developing organizational strategies that benefit the entire family.
Conclusion
Organizational skills are critical for managing the challenges associated with ADHD. Various interventions, including group-based training, behavioral approaches, technological aids, school-based programs, and parenting interventions, have demonstrated effectiveness in improving these skills. By adopting these strategies, individuals with ADHD can enhance their organizational abilities, leading to better academic performance, daily functioning, and overall quality of life.
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