This is part 5 of 5 on modern perspectives on ADHD. Part 4: "What's the Deal with Dopamine and ADHD" is available here.

It should first be clarified that there are non-pharmacological ways of managing ADHD difficulties. For example, digital aids, including to-do lists, reminders, alarms, calendar and phone applications, can serve as an external working memory. This reduces the burden on an individual's working memory, thereby increasing capacity for focus when required.

Another way ADHDers manage is through fidget toys or stimming behaviours. For example, squeezing a fidget toy while reading or listening can provide a strong enough dopamine to keep focus. Similarly, walking meetings, or reading on treadmills or a swinging hammock can assist with maintaining focus because the body's needs for stimulation are being met.

Additionally, training of attentional regulation and impulse management through mindfulness-based therapies has also been shown to be effective in managing ADHD symptoms1. One approach is through extended

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