While Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often thought of as a childhood disorder, many adults struggle with ADHD, often going undiagnosed for years. The classic symptoms of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Other symptoms, often mistaken for other conditions, include anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.
Symptoms of ADHD can decrease quality of life by contributing to academic difficulties, problems in the workplace, financial challenges, and even high-risk behaviors such as criminal activity and substance abuse [1]. Modern living is not considered a cause of ADHD, but constant bombardment with notifications, social media, fast-paced environments, and information overload can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
Health coaching is currently being researched as an adjunct to counseling and drug therapy for adults living with ADHD [2]. A health coach works with clients by helping them set reasonable goals and then holding them accountable. These goals can involve any aspect of the client’s life, including planning, time management, and self-esteem building. The coach provides guidance and accountability to help clients achieve their goals. By emphasizing accountability, health coaching offers additional structure to help those living with ADHD achieve success.
A case study by Ahmann et al. examined the role of a board-certified health coach in a psychiatric practice working with a young adult with ADHD [3]. A young woman presented to the clinic with ADHD, which was preventing her from completing a graduate-level program. After eight weeks of working with a health coach, the woman reported improvements in executive functioning, particularly organization and time management, as well as better self-management of her ADHD. She was allowed back into her graduate program after several months of health coaching and successfully completed the program. While this was only a case study, the results are promising when a qualified health coach collaborates with other healthcare professionals.
A health coach can be a valuable addition to any healthcare team, not just for those living with ADHD. Interested in learning more about health coaching? Ready to get a jump start on the new year? Â Book a FREE 15-minute meet and greet today!
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Author: Dr. Kellyann Tomko, ND
Citations:
DuPaul GJ, Weyandt LL, O'Dell SM, Varejao M. College students with ADHD: current status and future directions. J Atten Disord. 2009 Nov;13(3):234-50. doi: 10.1177/1087054709340650. Epub 2009 Jul 20. PMID: 19620623.
Ahmann E, Tuttle LJ, Saviet M, Wright SD. A descriptive review of ADHD coaching research: Implications for college students. J Postsecond Educ Disab 2018 Spring;31(1):17-39.
Ahmann E, Smith K, Ellington L, Pille R. Health and wellness coaching and psychiatric care collaboration in a multimodal intervention for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A case report. Perm J 2020;24:18.256. DOI: https://doi. org/10.7812/TPP/18.256.
Disclaimer:
This information is generalized and intended for educational purposes only. Due to potential individual contraindications, please see your primary care provider before implementing any strategies in these posts.