People with ADHD often struggle with math due to challenges with focus, working memory, and executive functions like planning, leading to difficulties in calculation, problem-solving, and attention to detail, but this isn't universal; some individuals find math engaging, especially with supportive teaching or when they can use hyperfocus, while others might also have co-occurring dyscalculia (a learning disability in math).
Individuals with ADHD, even without comorbid dyscalculia, often report math difficulties. A relatively recent review systematized the data from 34 studies measuring math abilities in children and adults with ADHD (Tosto et al., 2015).
The students with ADHD also performed better in certain subject areas than those without ADHD. These included the arts, creative writing, science discovery, and architecture.
The 24-hour rule for ADHD is a self-regulation strategy to combat impulsivity by creating a mandatory waiting period (often a full day) before reacting to emotionally charged situations or making significant decisions, allowing time for reflection and reducing regretful snap judgments, especially for things like impulse purchases or arguments. It's a pause button that gives the brain space to process, move from impulse to intention, and evaluate choices more logically, helping manage ADHD's impact on emotional regulation and decision-making.
Albert Einstein, Physicist & Mathematician
Although it can't be proven, many scholars and historians believe that Einstein one of the greatest minds of all-time, had ADHD.
Studies suggest that people with ADHD often exhibit better-than-average coordination and reaction times, which makes them suited to fast-moving sports such as basketball or football, where quick decision-making and adaptability are essential [2][5]. ADHD can also be an advantage in academic and professional settings.
However, Bill Gates ADHD did not stop him from reaching the most incredible professional heights in his life.
Increase stress relief by exercising outdoors—people with ADHD often benefit from sunshine and green surroundings. Try relaxing forms of exercise, such as mindful walking, yoga, or tai chi. In addition to relieving stress, they can teach you to better control your attention and impulses.
Types of ADHD
Key Takeaways: Adderall crashes involve more than just fatigue – they include mood swings, anxiety, brain fog, depression, and strong cravings to take more medication. Crash duration varies significantly – symptoms can last from a few hours after a single dose to several days or weeks with frequent or heavy use.
The five gifts of ADHD include creativity, emotional sensitivity, exuberance, interpersonal empathy, and being nature-smart (The Gift of Adult ADD, 2008).
Tasks that are slow-paced, like reading, or repetitive, like completing math practice questions, tend to be the hardest to stay focused on. Procrastination: A person with ADHD might procrastinate for various reasons. They might avoid studying topics that they find boring or overwhelming.
The ADHD burnout cycle is a pattern where constant effort to manage ADHD symptoms (like executive dysfunction, overstimulation, and masking) leads to extreme mental/physical exhaustion, a "crash," and a shame spiral, often followed by trying to overcompensate again, repeating the cycle. It involves phases like the initial push/overcompensation, the struggle/stress, the collapse/shutdown, and the guilt-ridden recovery attempt, resulting in fatigue, irritability, procrastination, and disengagement from life.
The best lifestyle for ADHD involves a foundation of balanced nutrition (whole foods, lean protein, < Omega-3s, reduced sugar/processed items), consistent, engaging exercise, and excellent sleep hygiene (routine, dark room, no screens). Key additions include stress management (mindfulness, yoga, breaks), strong organization (planners, lists, reminders), and building supportive routines and environments, complementing any formal treatment.
ADHD does not inherently make a person a genius. Intelligence varies widely among individuals with ADHD, just as it does in the general population. ADHD is characterized by differences in attention, impulsivity, and sometimes hyperactivity, but it is not a determinant of intelligence.
The ADHD "30% Rule" is a guideline suggesting that executive functions (like self-regulation, planning, and emotional control) in people with ADHD develop about 30% slower than in neurotypical individuals, meaning a 10-year-old might function more like a 7-year-old in these areas, requiring adjusted expectations for maturity, task management, and behavior. It's a tool for caregivers and adults with ADHD to set realistic goals, not a strict scientific law, helping to reduce frustration by matching demands to the person's actual developmental level (executive age) rather than just their chronological age.
So, ADHD and ASD aren't the same condition, but — because they have so many similarities — it's easy to confuse them. After all, it's not like there's a specific spot on the brain where ASD stops and ADHD begins.
Active and dynamic jobs
The 20-minute rule for ADHD is a productivity strategy to overcome task paralysis by committing to work on a task for just 20 minutes, leveraging the brain's need for dopamine and short bursts of focus, making it easier to start and build momentum, with the option to stop or continue after the timer goes off, and it's a variation of the Pomodoro Technique, adapted for ADHD's unique challenges like time blindness. It helps by reducing overwhelm, providing a clear starting point, and creating a dopamine-boosting win, even if you only work for that short period.
What causes ADHD rage? ADHD rage is primarily caused by difficulties with emotional regulation and impulsivity. The ADHD brain often struggles to manage intense emotions and control impulses. This makes it harder for an ADHDer to pause and process feelings before reacting.
People with ADHD often thrive when they incorporate movement, pursue passion-driven challenges, foster social relationships, and practice mindfulness. Creating a structured yet flexible routine can also improve focus and boost overall happiness.
24-Hour Hot Spot: Have a designated area somewhere like your desk where you can place your “need to-dos.” Place anything there that needs your attention within 24 hours so that it doesn't get lost. Pocket Notes: Writing on your hand is risky; try writing important things on notes and putting them in your pocket.
Johnny Depp is a legendary actor, famous for his diverse roles in films like “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “Edward Scissorhands.” He was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult and has faced challenges associated with the condition.
Actor Jim Carrey has publicly discussed his lifelong struggles with depression, which he's managed with medication like Prozac and a focus on healthy living, exercise, and positive environments; he also reportedly lives with a diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which many fans note mirrors themes in his early comedic work.