5 ways to support a loved one with ADHD
All relationships require work- compassion, patience, understanding and unconditional love. For those with a partner with ADHD, it may require more of all of that for both partners to maintain a healthy and successful relationship.
Understanding and patience are two important elements in maintaining a relationship with someone who has ADHD. Both partners need to recognize that ADHD is a mental disorder that the person must cope with and manage for the rest of their life.
Below are 5 simple ways that will help you support your partner or spouse with ADHD:
· Education – ADHD is different for everyone. There are commonalities, but the symptoms, struggles and ability to cope are different from others. Your partner/spouse with ADHD is not being lazy but struggling at life.
· Communication – By creating to-do lists, it is clear, you both know what needs to be done around the house. Writing things down may be the most useful strategy of all.
· Create routines – Routines are essential to maintain order at home. The structure can greatly improve the functioning of many people with ADHD. Try encouraging your partner to keep a daily schedule for tasks and events.
· Organization- Clutter tends to add to the symptoms of disorganization for those with ADHD. Help your partner in discovering ways to help keep your household organized. Accomplishing small tasks can go a long way for someone with ADHD, like finishing a project or cleaning up the kitchen after dinner.
· Therapy – To help find solutions to the problems you are both having, couples therapy can go a long way. Seek a provider who has training and experience in caring for adults with ADHD.
If a partner’s ADHD has not been formally diagnosed and treated, it’s common for the non-ADHD partner to take on more responsibility for family matters like cleaning, financial management, and staying organized.
Don't allow ADHD to go untreated. See the difference in quality-of-life a manageable treatment can make. https://www.adhd.md/treatment
Resources:
https://www.additudemag.com/loving-someone-with-adhd/
https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/adhd-spouse-lonely#non-adhd-partner
https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2021/10/31/adhd-home-organization-tips/
https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/adhd-spouse-lonely#seeking-help