Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, better known as ADHD, is a condition that can affect both adults and children. It is most often diagnosed in children, with the average age of diagnosis being seven years. According to statistics, there has been a 42% increase in the number of ADHD diagnoses over the past eight years. A few lifestyle management tips for ADHD can help both adults and children with this condition.

Tips for managing ADHD:

1. Getting organized and setting up a schedule
The most common signs of ADHD are inattention and inability to focus. One can use daily planners or reminders to organize and prioritize their chores. For children with ADHD, breaking down tasks into smaller steps can help them to complete a job. Using and teaching them to use color codes can help them prioritize chores and remember things that need to be completed.

2. Exercise
Exercise, especially outdoors, can help to reduce hyperactivity and inattention caused due to ADHD. Spending time outdoors indulging in a fun activity can also help to reduce stress levels and help manage impulses and curb inattention. For kids diagnosed with ADHD, playing outdoors or exercising can help to get rid of excess energy and aggression.

3. Sleep
One of the important lifestyle management tips for ADHD for both kids and adults is managing sleep. Setting up a sleep schedule such as going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including on weekends and holidays, could be beneficial. Setting up a bedtime routine that includes taking a warm shower or hot bath before bed could help calm and relax and help to sleep better. One should also avoid drinking coffee or other beverages that contain caffeine late in the day. Proper sleep is also essential for children with ADHD, as insufficient sleep can lead to hyperactivity. Children should sleep for at least 9 to 11 hours. Hence, setting up a sleep schedule or sleep routine can also help them.

4. Diet
Eating a balanced healthy diet is also one of the essential lifestyle management tips for ADHD, as an unhealthy diet can increase the severity of symptoms. One can also manage symptoms of ADHD in children by ensuring they avoid sugar and junk food as these can trigger or worsen symptoms such as hyperactivity. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and limit or restrict the intake of packaged foods and sweetened beverages. Encourage them to drink more water.

5. The use of digital screens
One of the lifestyle management tips for kids with this condition that adults could also benefit from is reducing screen-time. It is recommended that children should not spend more than one or two hours a day in front of a digital screen; this includes TV, computers, and video games. Children should be encouraged to spend time outdoors, especially when the weather is good.

By following the lifestyle management tips for ADHD mentioned above, the symptoms of this condition can be effectively managed and controlled.