ADD/ADHD Help and Executive Function Disorder Our brains are incredibly complex machines—and executive function makes this machine run smoothly. But what is executive function, and why do people with ADHD struggle with it? Understanding executive function challenges are essential to finding the right ADD or ADHD help for your situation. “Executive function” describes a set of crucial cognitive processes that we draw on constantly throughout the day. Broadly speaking, you can break these processes down into two main categories: Controlling emotions, impulses, and thoughts Prioritizing, organizing, and initiating tasks and memories In other words, executive functioning helps us stay cool-headed, allows us to plan projects and complete them, and supplies us with important details at the right time. These are abilities we depend on throughout our lives, in hundreds of ways—at school, at home, at work, in relationships, and elsewhere. Executive functioning is an evolving set of skills, abilities, and processes. They can develop and change over time, as we get older, and they can be affected by many factors in our lives—including ADHD. Let’s explore how executive function challenges manifest for individuals with ADHD. We’ll also review how these challenges can inform your options for ADHD/ADD help. Understanding Executive Function Challenges How Executive Dysfunction Affects Individuals Our understanding of ADHD has expanded as we’ve developed more precise tools for diagnosis, evaluation, and monitoring of the brain. Clinical studies show that both kids and adults with ADHD have impaired executive function in key areas of the brain, including the prefrontal cortex. What does that mean? Without concrete examples, it can be difficult to understand how executive dysfunction plays a role in daily life. Let’s take a look at some common executive function challenges: Managing emotions and thoughts. Those who struggle with executive function may also have a tough time keeping emotions in check and being aware of what thoughts and feelings they’re experiencing. They may also deal with racing thoughts and emotions. Organization and time management. With executive dysfunction, tasks can feel overwhelming because you don’t know where to start. It can be harder to allocate time effectively—causing late attendance, missed deadlines, and unfinished tasks. Distributing concentration effectively. This is a common symptom for those with ADHD. They may get caught up with certain tasks for hours on end, unable to tear themselves away. For other tasks, they can’t concentrate enough, however much they try. Complex planning and problem-solving. Executive dysfunction affects what’s called “fluid intelligence,” which makes it harder to process information in real time, change our thinking or approach as needed, multi-task, and solve problems. If these are common challenges for you or your learner, it’s worth considering strategies and support systems that help. Let’s review a few options. Exploring Your Options for ADD/ADHD Help Finding the right ADD help can be an ongoing challenge. Certain solutions may help you or your learner, but only for a short time. Finding the right support system means taking a creative, considerate approach to your situation: Dig into the resources. Our understanding of ADHD is deepening every day. Fortunately, there are resources to help you navigate this condition. These can help you identify ADHD challenges and tips, find local support groups, and more. Speak to the professionals. Doctors, teachers, and therapists can all play a part in getting the support you need. If you or your learner has ADHD, reach out to professionals to discuss concrete, professional recommendations for support. Explore your options. ADHD looks different for everyone, so it’s important to find personalized support that works for your situation. Brain training is one great way to get ADD help for you or your learner! ADD and ADHD Help Through Brain Training It’s important to remember that executive functioning is a cognitive process that can change. That means, if you or your learner struggles with planning, organization, or problem-solving, these are specific skills that can develop over time. One-on-one brain training can help you work on these skills. Learners can target, practice, and strengthen key cognitive skills like focus, working memory, and processing speed—skills that are deeply connected to executive functioning. We calibrate our approach based on each student’s unique strengths, skills, and growth areas. A dedicated brain trainer leads each client through intense, focused skills and drills, offering regular feedback and encouragement. As learners advance through their training program, they can build on those core cognitive skills in the process. Remember: brain training isn’t a cure for ADHD. Instead, it’s a way to get the right ADD help for you or your learner! With dedicated ADD/ADHD help, learners can discover new strengths and skills! To get started with LearningRx, visit us online or call 866-BRAIN-01 today.