Staying Organized and Managing ADHD Stress

(WDEF)- Early mornings, packed schedules, and endless to-do lists — sound familiar? For many parents and families, juggling daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming. And for those managing ADHD, the pressure can feel even greater.

“It’s like everything everywhere, and you have to do it now and yesterday,” Shanna Pearson, coaching director of Expert ADHD Coaching explained.

Experts say the challenge often comes down to how the ADHD brain processes information.

“If you have ADHD, you are always overwhelmed because you have a brain that has a very hard time compartmentalizing,” said Shanna Pearson, coaching director of Expert ADHD Coaching.

Mental health coaches recommend starting with structure. That includes meal prepping, keeping consistent routines, and encouraging kids to handle small responsibilities on their own.

“Give them a couple of things they can do for themselves, like getting their school bag ready,” Pearson said. “That’s something even a six-year-old can do — especially if you create a list with them.”

Coaches also encourage families to focus on progress instead of perfection, take short breaks, and prioritize self-care to stay calm during busy days.

And sometimes, the right music can make all the difference.

“Listening to music — whether it’s soft or loud — can help take you out of a negative head space,” Pearson said.

Experts agree that with the right strategies, families can manage ADHD challenges while creating calmer, more organized days.