By Christine Wincentaylo, General Member
I got diagnosed with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder at the age of eighteen. I was in my second year of university. It took me over six months just to complete the questionnaire because I kept putting it off and said: “I would deal with it later.”
Finally, I gave my papers, and wow, I was shocked to be told that I had been diagnosed with ADHD.
I remember telling my aunt and mother about wanting to be tested for ADHD, and they told me I didn't have it because my cousins who had it were very hyper, and I was nothing like them.
My journey with my ADHD has been challenging yet rewarding at times. I wish I had known some of these tools before I got diagnosed, and even now, I am always learning about new resources to help me.
Welcome to the ADHD guide of all the tools that helped me!
Read & Write - Google Chrome Extension
Helps read websites
Offered in Multiple languages
I prefer using papers in a PDF version and then using Read & write; it works better for extension
You can highlight words and keep them saved for the next time you review a paper or article
** I recommend going to your Access and Disability Resources office, which offers training on how to use Read & Write**
Taking Omega 3’s weekly (especially on days I know I will be busy)
Personally, It has helped me with improving my impulsivity, attention, and memory
Omega 3’s have helped me lower the dose of medication I am on
** I am not a doctor; this is from my personal observation and experience. Do ask your doctor or medical specialist for information on Omega 3’s and its impact **
Setting timers for my days with less structure, which are usually my weekends
I set them for 15mins, then 20min, then back to 15mins
I take breaks between these timers and then continue doing work for the set amount of time
Get a medication container to help schedule your medications for each day
It helps me remember to take them in the morning
Creates a new thing for my schedule
Bag of fidget toys
I have a bag for fidgets everywhere I go, especially for school. I have it in my backpack, and sometimes other people need one too, so I occasionally give one to someone else in my class.
Here are the fidgets that work for me: tangle palm, fidget rings, squishies
Watching “How to ADHD”
It has helped me learn more about my brain.
Shares different techniques to help with an ADHD brain
Whiteboard for writing reminders
I have a whiteboard in my room, I thrifted mine for $5, but usually, you can find them anywhere between $4-10 at different stores.
I write reminders and due dates for payments or things I need to buy and erase them after its completed