Helping Adults with ADD Manage During Holidays
How to Reduce Stress, Control Symptoms, and Enjoy the Holiday Season
Oct 31, 2008
Adults with ADD may be hyperactive, inattentive, and impulsive. They may be extremely talkative, forgetful, and restless. In social conversations they may have difficulty paying attention and may interrupt others. During the holidays, adults with ADD may have trouble shopping, preparing for family gatherings, fixing meals and interacting socially.
Shopping For Gifts
When shopping for gifts for friends and family, first make a list of desired items. Consider shopping online to reduce the stress of long lines and crowded stores. If the family is large or finances are tight, opt for a gift exchange in which members only buy for one or two people each. Also, think about making a donation in the names of family members to any charity.
If buying presents in person, bring a notebook and paper to keep track of spending and reduce forgetfulness or repetitive purchases. Consider teaming up on holiday errands with spouses or friends. Try to set aside one specific day to do shopping without children, to increase efficiency. Keep all gift receipts in one place for easy access
Family Get-Togethers and Preparing Holiday Meals
Don’t do it all in one day. Prior to hosting a get-together, make a list of simple recipes and shop for the ingredients. On another day, recruit family members to assist in cleaning and cooking.
Don’t take on more than you can handle. If you don’t feel up to cooking for twenty people on Christmas Day, don’t make the offer. Have a small dinner with family instead and visit other relatives at their homes throughout the week.
During a gathering, take a short walk around the block to release pent-up energy when feeling overwhelmed by chaos. Leave on the early side, before becoming too irritable and frustrated. If too many people make demands, don’t be afraid to say no rather than becoming overburdened by tasks.
Other Holiday Tips for Adult ADD Sufferers
Some other ideas for the Adult ADD sufferer:
- Get an early start on holiday cards or personal notes so that the task doesn’t become overwhelming. Consider sending e-cards instead, which are easier and faster but still contain a personal touch.
- Practice Relaxation Techniques to stay calm and focused, and be sure to stay constant with medication, proper diet, and exercise.
- Make a holiday notebook that details gifts, finances, and to-do lists. Review the notebook daily.
- On a calendar, put dates to have cards completed, as well as parties and office functions.
- Take a deep breath and count to ten when feeling overwhelmed with thoughts while socializing.
As an adult with ADD, it can sometimes be a challenge to explain to others why it is hard to pay attention, to concentrate or to remember simple things. During the holiday season, when social activities often come at a frantic pace, and shopping and meal planning can also be hectic, the adult ADD sufferer may feel overwhelmed and anxious. Hopefully, one can find a way to relax and enjoy the magic of the holidays.
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