Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is more than just a short attention span. Adults and children may live with many ADHD symptoms that affect their behavior, mood, and ability to learn.
Here, we’ll explore the question, “Does ADHD affect memory?” and discuss some strategies you can use to improve your memory. With a few powerful techniques and individual counseling in Tucson, AZ, from In Balance Counseling for support, it’s possible to improve your memory and manage some of the daily challenges you face. Make an appointment by calling (520) 722-9631.
The Connection Between ADHD and Memory Deficits
Everyone has the occasional absent-minded or forgetful moment, but for people with ADHD, memory issues are often a daily occurrence. So, how does ADHD affect memory?
ADHD can affect all three types of memory: working, short-term, and long-term.
Working memory is your active memory, which supports executive functioning. In theory, it’s how you process, store, and retain information to complete tasks. In practice, it’s remembering how to follow multi-step directions or stay focused during complex cognitive tasks.
Short-term memory involves how well you remember things a few seconds or minutes after they happen. ADHD can create short-term memory deficits by causing you to lose vital information, like instructions, soon after you hear them.
Finally, long-term memory is your ability to retain information indefinitely. In addition to storing experiences, long-term memory preserves your skills, knowledge, and more.
It’s important to recognize that ADHD does not cause memory loss. Instead, the disorder leads to distractibility and a loss of focus that prevents memories from ever being stored.
Also, not everyone with ADHD experiences memory issues to the same extent. Research suggests that about 85% of children with ADHD have working memory issues, which can extend into adulthood. There’s also evidence that the more severe your ADHD symptoms, the more severe your memory issues will be.
How Memory Problems Affect People With ADHD
ADHD-related memory issues can manifest in multiple ways throughout your life.
The effect on working memory can make it difficult to complete tasks or require frequent reminders of the necessary steps. Planning and organization can also be more difficult because of executive function impairment.
It’s common for people with ADHD in adulthood to have difficulty remembering names, for example, or to require multiple reminders to avoid missing appointments. Issues with lateness and challenges doing work efficiently can also arise from ADHD-related memory issues.
Improving Memory With ADHD
ADHD is incurable, but you can strengthen and improve your skills with in-depth therapies and training. The tools counselors use to help people with ADHD improve their memories include:
- Memory games and exercises, like puzzles and brain-training apps
- Memorization techniques
- Assistive technology, like smartphone alarms
- Mindfulness and meditation exercises
- Visual aids
Get Help Managing ADHD at In Balance Counseling
Does ADHD affect memory and your ability to work and live a fulfilling life? Schedule your first therapy session at In Balance Counseling in Tucson, AZ, by calling (520) 722-9631 and see how you can start to regain control over your life.