ADHD and Working Memory

Do you ever struggle to focus on your work, stay organised , or recall what you were just thinking? For those suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), these difficulties may be encountered on a daily basis. ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disease that impairs focus and impulse control in both children and adults.While there are many facets to ADHD, working memory is a crucial component in understanding and managing it.

We’ll examine the connection between working memory and ADHD in this blog post, breaking down these ideas into easily understandable words.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is comparable to a “traffic jam” within the brain. It interferes with your capacity to control your impulsivity and pay attention. Consider it as being difficult to stay in your mental lane when there are too many “thoughts and distractions” on the road. The condition usually manifests in childhood and may last until maturity.

What is Working Memory?

Your brain’s “sticky note pad,” or working memory, is where you temporarily store information needed for tasks. Working memory functions as your mental workspace, storing the puzzle pieces you’re currently working on when you solve problems or follow instructions.

The Link Between Working Memory and ADHD

Consider keeping your tasks on a little sticky notepad. The brain’s “note pad” doesn’t stick as well or as long in people with ADHD. This has an impact on a person’s capacity for focus, organising and completing the  tasks.

One common symptom of ADHD is difficulty with working memory. It can be difficult for children and people with ADHD to retain crucial knowledge in their brains, which makes it difficult to follow complicated instructions, recall specifics, or control impulsive behaviour.

Why is Working Memory Important for ADHD?

The conductor of an orchestra is similar to working memory. Coordinating different brain functions such as impulse control, problem solving, and concentration is aided by it. These processes can become misaligned when working memory is compromised, which makes treating ADHD symptoms more challenging.

Techniques for Kids with ADHD to improve working memory

1. Structured Routine:

To assist kids with ADHD in better organising their assignments and activities, create a regular daily schedule. Their working memory may be under less cognitive strain as a result of this regularity.

2. Information Chunking :

Divide work or information into more manageable, smaller portions. Children find it easier to comprehend and retain the information as a result.

3. Visual Aids:

To depict information and tasks, use visual aids like timetables, charts, and diagrams. Working memory may be strained less by visual information than by spoken instructions.

4. Establish Clear Expectations:

Let the child know exactly what is expected of them. To make instructions easier for children to remember and follow, use straightforward language.

5. Minimise Distractions:

Establish a setting free of most distractions. Children with ADHD may be especially receptive to environmental stimuli. A peaceful, clutter-free environment helps them concentrate better.

6. Practise Self-Regulation:

Teach kids how to regulate their impulsive behaviour and help them focus their attention by helping them build self-regulation abilities. Working memory’s cognitive load may be lessened as a result.

7. Physical Activity:

Children with ADHD can benefit from regular physical activity. It has been demonstrated that exercise improves cognitive and working memory.

Foods that can help

1. Nuts:

Almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and macadamia nuts all have unique qualities to offer. Macadamias support healthy brain function, while pistachio nut oils store fatty acids and fight inflammation. Almonds aid with memory improvement.

2. Seeds:

Flaxseeds are a great source of fibre and omega-3 fats. They help in enhancing the parts of the brain involved in controlling mood and cognition. Flaxseeds can be best eaten ground, and can easily be added to baked goods, oatmeal, sprinkled on salads, or desserts. Similarly according to research, Muskmelon seeds help in increasing oxygen flow to the brain thereby calming and making it stress free. Thus, seeds rich in Omega-3 and Vitamin E  help in maintaining brain health.

3. Ashwagandha:

Ashwagandha’s most highly valued advantages include its beneficial effects on stress , anxiety, attention span and mood. The ingredients in ashwagandha have anti-inflammatory, brain-protective, and stress-reducing properties that may shield your body from a number of ailments.

4. Shankhapushpi:

According to Ayurveda, Shankhpushpi relieves tension and anxiety while calming the brain. Its Medhya (improves intelligence) characteristic also helps memory by functioning as a brain tonic. Take Shankhpushpi powder with warm milk or water as it assists in improving focus, attention and memory.

5. Brahmi:

As per earlier studies, brahmi helps in enhancing focus and memory. Some of the chemical constituents in brahmi stimulate the neural pathways involved in cognition, which aids in the development of cognitive skills. This plant is also used to treat dementia, ASD and other mental diseases like Alzheimer’s.

6. Sage herb:

Sage is a herb you shouldn’t overlook if you wish to improve your concentration and memory. It’s packed with substances that act as antioxidants. It is demonstrated to improve the coping strategy in your brain. It helps in sharpening the memory and maintaining brain functioning.

SCIENTIFICALLY proven studies conducted by NIH

There are many researches by NIH that support the benefits of Ayurvedic herbs in ADHD, MEMORY & BRAIN HEALTH. Few are as below.

1. What is working memory? Hear from an expert.

2. What is the relation between memory less and ADHD?

The portion of your memory known as working memory is what enables you to put new information into practise, like retaining directions long enough to complete a task. Research indicates that children and adults with ADHD have less effective working memory than people without the disorder.

3. What is working memory and short-term memory deficits in ADHD?

4. Working memory in ADHD and Non- ADHD kids

The impact of ADHD on executive performance is one of its defining characteristics. Adults with ADHD overcome difficulties with working memory by employing a wide range of techniques and resources. It’s frequently a matter of trial and error because what works for one individual won’t work for everyone. You can overcome your working memory issue by picking up new abilities, utilising helpful technology, and forming new routines.

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