6 simple tips for creating and keeping a social life with adult ADHD

Adults with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may find that making and keeping friends takes a lot of focus. Although they are energetic, adults with ADHD may be impulsive in social situations. These simple tips start with fixing "the self" to help you cope.

• According to Melissa Orlov, book author on ADHD relationships, more than half of adults who have ADHD don't know they have it.
• They may suspect it, since attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder is a topic often discussed at family gatherings around people who display clear symptoms.
• Meanwhile, diagnosed ADHD individuals often believe that drug therapy alone is sufficient to address their relationship issues, when in fact it involves both drug therapy and significant behavioural changes, guided by a specialist.
• A quick online screening quiz can highlight red flags for the disorder.

• Chemical imbalances linked to ADHD are quickly remedied with consistent aerobic exercise and adequate sleep, separate from drug therapy.
• These new habits can help calm impulsive behaviours and lessen dramatic shifts in attention.

• Adults with ADHD often miss important birthdays and anniversaries, as well as gifts for these special occasions.
• Occasions of inattentive, forgetful behaviour can be minimized by creating reminders for important events.
• Today, a number of electronic gadgets and free apps facilitate this effort with programmable "to do" lists and reminders.

• The ability to keep friends requires strategies that prevent unpleasant situations caused by ADHD.
• These practical strategies include: simplifying daily routines, using phone reminders to help structure the day, educating others about communications styles related to ADHD and creating a "friends journal" to stay in touch with friends and acquaintances.

• Support groups are extremely therapeutic for ADHD individuals.
• These groups offer meaningful reassurances that sufferers are not struggling alone with their lifestyle issues. Several ADHD support groups are accessible on the Internet.

• Avoid formal dinner affairs and large ceremonies that require lengthy conversations or fixed attention.
• Choose friendly, but active atmospheres such as buffets, barbecues, music festivals and karaoke, relaxing to individuals with ADHD.
• Also, it is important to note that adults with ADHD are less likely to have problems with relationships if they maintain control of their condition with both behavioural and drug therapy.