The COVID-19 pandemic has flipped the script for all of us, but it has been especially taxing for people with ADHD. Folks with executive function challenges are living a life without structure and predictability; individuals with anxiety are struggling with their emotional regulation in the face of new stressors; remote working and learning are often distracting and boring; and we’re all feeling a lot more lonely, sad, and untethered. On top of that, parents and caregivers are trying to manage their family responsibilities without any external support or breathing room. It can all feel excessive and overwhelming.

When it comes to navigating life in the pandemic, an ADHD coach can be a port in the storm. Regular coaching sessions and follow-up communications provide accountability and a routine, help clients initiate work and organize their efforts into productive steps, and assist with planning and goal setting. Having someone to talk with who understands the obstacles and impact of ADHD can also offer an important release valve, validate the feelings that frequently accompany those problems, and help cultivate important coping skills.

At Evoke, we coach clients with ADHD to help them understand the opportunities and challenges of their learning difference. This coaching helps them establish habits that lead to accomplishing goals, increase the level of awareness around issues important to them, create a plan of action, learn ways to strengthen their executive function skills, and manage obstacles that arise while pursuing goals. Specialized coaching can help individuals overcome the obstacles of executive dysfunction, processing deficits, and social anxiety in order to achieve and thrive in today’s accelerated academic and workplace environments, even in the era of physical distancing.

For more information about Evoke’s ADHD coaching program, visit our website, and let us know how we can help you sail through the uncharted waters of life in the pandemic.

Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of students across the country are now participating in virtual classes. For many learners who struggle with ADHD, dyslexia, and other challenges, the remote classroom is less than ideal. Try these proven tips and strategies for coping with the new reality.

1. Get Comfortable

Choose a study location that is easy to use, relaxing, and free from distractions (try to avoid the kitchen table and other high-traffic places). Make sure you have the tools you need to maintain focus: a strong internet connection, headphones, ear plugs, something to snack or chew on, a noise machine to use while you are doing independent work, a chair with good back support, and whatever you’ll need throughout the school day, such as a calculator, colored pens, workbooks, course syllabi, anda printer. Be sure to silence your phone.

2. Create a Schedule

Time management is tougher when you’re relying on yourself to remember to change classes, start homework, eat lunch, complete your reading and assignments, and get to bed on time. Create a schedule that breaks down your day to include class times, due dates for assignments, exam times, and quizzes, and put it where you can see it (there are many online schedule-creation tools). Build schedule alerts into your phone and computer calendars as reminders and give yourself time to make transitions.

3. Take a Break

Zoom fatigue is real and the need to sustain attention can be tough. Build breaks into your schedule and make time to get outside and exercise. Physical activity releases the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in your brain and that helps with concentration and mood regulation. Listening to lectures or audiobooks while running or walking is a great way to stay healthy, alert, and on task.

4. Be Resourceful

Does your school offer remote student support services such as peer mentoring, tutoring, writing assistance, after-hours and weekend homework help, or coaching? Take advantage of them. And stay in touch with your teachers as much as you can.

For additional suggestions of ways to advocate for yourself, participate effectively online, and use technology and tools in the new normal, check out these tips from the University of Washington.

Evoke also offers coaching, mentoring, and tutoring services designed to support students in a virtual learning environment. Visit us at www.evokelearning.ca or give us a call at (416) 835-0646 to learn how we can help.