Managing ADHD During The Coronavirus Pandemic

People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD have a hard time concentrating and controlling their energy. This neurodevelopment condition affects roughly 9% of children and 4% of adults in the US. As of now, COVID-19 has changed the whole landscape of medicine making ADHD treatment a challenge for people. Furthermore, due to the whole scenario surrounding the disease, people are facing stress and anxiety. This has led to more behavioral problems in people. So, the risk is high. 

How COVID-19 Has Affected ADHD Patients?

It’s no surprise that COVID-19 has created an unforgettable impact on our lives. Even though we are taking all kinds of preventive measures, there is a persistent risk everywhere. Plus, with the social distancing rules may have a harsh impact on children and adults living ADHD. Individuals are studying and working remotely. As a result, lack of interpersonal interaction is creating thoughts of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Everything is mismanaged and this is already creating panic in people. 

A 2017 study says that people with ADHD are more likely to deal with loneliness. So, with all the vibe of social distancing, it can actually lead to more loneliness in people. As a result, it carries an increased risk of mental health issues in people. This whole set of changes can create a huge challenge for ADHD in leading a normal life. Sleep issues are on the rise. According to the National Sleep Foundation, lack of sleep can trigger ADHD symptoms in children. Well, in any case, there are some tips that you can use to manage ADHD during this pandemic. 

Make a Routine

If you create a daily or weekly routine, it can help you develop good habits and bring some alignment into your life. This can combine to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. To create a routine, you can set a specific time for each task. Try sleeping at the exact same time every day and your body clock will adjust. Along with these, try carving out a specific time for homework, hobbies, and relaxation. 

Exercise 

Exercising is great for your overall health and it can especially benefit people suffering from ADHD. According to research, a 20 minutes session of aerobic activity can improve pulse control in children suffering from ADHD. Plus, as per a review article, researchers mention that regular exercise creates a positive impact on the structure of the brain that reduces the ADHD symptoms in children. Although going to a gym is not recommended during this time, you can do many strength training and aerobic exercises easily at home. Bodyweight exercises and a jog in your garden are good options to get yourself started. 

Create a Soothing Environment

The kind of environment you live in has an impact on your behavior. You might feel more attentive and focussed if you sit in a quiet, well-arranged room. Similarly, students will learn better if they are away from all the distractions. In order to create a calm environment, you can practice deep breathing exercises, stick to your schedule, light a soothing fragrance, and listen to relaxing music. 

Be Optimistic

Obviously, we cannot ignore the risk that comes with COVID-19. But, we need to maintain a positive attitude towards life. Even if you happen to get infected with the virus, be aware that almost 98% of people are recovering. Also, the chronic cases are mostly of people who already had a respiratory disease. So, in any condition, don’t panic. You’ll be fine and healthy. Treat this just as a phase that shall pass. 

Act Responsibly

Due to the corona pandemic, everyone needs to follow a certain protocol. Use this as an opportunity to act responsibly. Don’t go outside and try avoiding any close contact with anyone. Step outside only if it’s necessary. Otherwise, make sure you stay indoors at the safety of your home. Try avoiding habits like smoking that can inflame your lungs and make you susceptible to the virus. So, avoid these habits and try spreading awareness about the whole process. Only by acting together, we can fight this pandemic. We are all in this together and time shall be favorable pretty soon. 

Follow Trusted Sources

With all this information floating around us, we are overwhelmed with all kinds of facts and data. The media has been going crazy. Hearing about the virus throughout the day can leave a negative impact on your brain. Obviously, every source of news is not legit. There are media houses that are showing an exaggerated picture of the whole scene. So, this can create unwanted fear in people. So, identity sources that are credible. Take updates from the official sites of WHO and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They provide accurate information and unbiased analysis of the whole scene. Similarly, don’t believe everything you see on social media. There is a lot of fake information being circulated around. Verify it with the official source and then lay your trust. Also, don’t share any information unless you are very sure about it.  

Contact a Doctor For ADHD Treatment

Even though gathering information is necessary, you should take some advice from the doctor. They are aware of the latest developments in the medical world and educate you with the right facts. Plus, they are aware of the risk of the pandemic and how it can impact ADHD. So, they can screen your health and guide you accordingly. Along with these, they can also give you valuable tips to glance through this phase. It’s a good idea to find a certified clinic. Here’s how you can do it:

Go Through The Reviews

It’s a good idea to go through the user reviews and ratings. They give you a glimpse into the working prowess of a particular clinic. Pay attention to what people have to say about the clinic and its reputation. Then make a list of 3-4 clinics with high ratings as it loads you with more options. 

Check if it’s Certified

Certifications are extremely important. They serve as a token of trust that a particular clinic is genuine. Contact them in advance and request proof of their certification. A reputed clinic would happily educate you about their licenses and certifications. 

Do They Accept Telemedicine Appointments

In such a risky time of the pandemic, stepping outside the home is not a safe choice. So, look for clinics that offer telemedicine appointments. You get to interact with the doctor via video call and you can receive all the help you need from the comfort of your home. 

Do They Have a Physical Address

All genuine clinics will have a physical address. Either they will list it on their website or have it on their contact information. With everything shifting online, a large number of fake clinics have come up. They don’t have any physical address and operate with the aim to dupe people. So, call them and check if they have a customer executive who can provide information about the physical clinic. If anything seems shady, it’s a red signal to consider your choice elsewhere. 

Bottom Line

With all these tips, you can surely guarantee better ADHD treatment. Just ensure you follow the rules and guidelines of the government. We hope that the pandemic ends soon and we get the relief we need.