ADHD Home Hacks - Real-Life Solutions for a Functional Home
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- Опубліковано 29 тра 2024
- Simple ADHD Home Hacks to stay focused and be more productive! Thanks to HelloFresh! Use code CLUTTERBUG16 for up to 16 FREE MEALS + 3 Surprise Gifts across 6 HelloFresh boxes plus free shipping at bit.ly/3EojyW3 !
What are your best ADHD hacks, tips and advice?!
#organize #clutterbug #adhd
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I hope you realize that there is NOTHING " wrong" with you. People like "us" may have difficulty with some things like you were describing, but don't forget the positives of our "condition".People with ADHD tend to be very creative, very caring, and usually fun to be with. Everyone is different for a reason!!!! Life would be pretty boring if we were all the same. I'm glad you are you
Yes! I'm also fairly certain UA-cam wouldn't exist without Neurodiverse brains - they are all over this place! 😁
I appreciate what you’re saying but I personally feel like something is definitely wrong with me. I often wish I was like the people who don’t have my brain and can function properly. I hope to feel better about my ADHD one day, maybe it takes time (I’m 32 and diagnosed at 30) oh and I’m not creative one bit so I’m bitter about that ha
🥰
@@brittanyream9872 please , be grateful that you DON'T have SOMEONE ELSE'S PROBLEM(s) ! I not only have ADHD , I've had multiple TOTAL SPINAL RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERIES . Titanium Plate, Titanium Rods and over 30 Screws between my neck to my thighs ! I also have Fibromyalgia and Severe Migraines . Oh, and I used to have a fabulous corporate career and was a competitive athlete, a successful Volleyball Coach for our City Schools, and a busy Mom . my car & spine were both 'Totaled-Out' by a man who was 101 yrs old . So after being "trapped" in a wheelchair , told I would NEVER WALK AGAIN ! I didn't get "Bitter" or "Sit on a PITY-POT" !! I Got BUSY ! Trying EVERY DAY , EVERY. HOUR .. to work myself OUT OF THAT WHEELCHAIR ! I Struggle with having ADHD/AADD , but I "work with it" ( with help from UA-cam Videos, like THIS ONE ) . I REMAIN GRATEFUL THAT I EVEN SURVIVED THE AUTO ACCIDENT !! Try blind-folding yourself for 24 Hours ~ I guarantee if you do it ~ you WILL BE SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR VISION ! After that , try TYING YOUR DOMINANT -HAND BEHIND YOUR BACK , etc . Start TODAY to COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS ! FOCUS ON WHAT you CAN DO ! and then DO IT ! Good Luck ! 🙏
I like to see strengths and weaknesses as a chance to work with others so we can all help each other out.
I love my small cross body purse. I don’t even take it off when I drive. This is a life saver for me. It’s not only way more comfortable than trying to hold a purse up on your shoulder but it also means you don’t set your purse down and leave it somewhere.
I am now 40 and in the process of getting a diagnosis. It has messed up most of my life at work, school and even home. I have heard all my life "if it was important to you, you'd remember it." That's not how it works for me. Never has been. This video spoke volumes to me and I am grateful to you for making it. 💙
Me too just got diagnosed at 58 😊
How is it going for you?
I am 40 as well and it’s being really hard to find someone that is willing to diagnose me.
@@fernandabuzzo9219 I was sent to see a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist. They told me I have ADHD, Depression and High Anxiety. It hasn't helped yet though bc getting someone to write down what I am and getting someone else to take the next steps are two different things, apparently. :/
I was having major memory and focus issues that were affecting my job. Telling my doc about that was what made them send me. Maybe that will help you?
Same my life wastefully messed up and all the signs were there my whole life. 38 years
@@fernandabuzzo9219 not sure if you’ve been able to find a diagnosis yet or where you’re located, but I was able to get an official diagnosis on ADHDOnline. I kept a list of all my symptoms in a Note on my phone and at the end of the assessment you can put all those things in it and a licensed psychiatrist looks at it and makes a diagnosis.
I’d been diagnosed with generalized anxiety when I was a teenager but this site added that, plus Hyperkinesia and combined type ADHD.
Omg please do more of these! I cannot tell you how annoyed I've been getting lately that there aren't many realistic cleaning/organizing ADHD edition videos. It just helps remind me I'm definitely not alone.
I didn't know it was a thing , I didn't think I had add or adhd but um all these things are speaking to my soul !
Ditto! The cleaning gloves/apron is amazing.
I am 86 years young and recently discovered that I have ADHD. Have always known that I was "ditsy and scatterbrained" but it is a relief to know that there is a real reason for my poor memory, disorganization and messiness. Thanks to you and the other ADHD organizing gurus I am making progress in decluttering and dealing with the distractedness that keeps me from actually accomplishing anything. I am a bee with butterfly tendencies. That discovery on your channel was the biggest help to me. Thank you for being so open and helping folks like me to cope.
86 and Still Learning! Can I be like you when I grow up?
41 only diagnosed last year
"A bee with butterfly tendencies"
@@davedahowell8694 me too!
Thank you so much for sharing!
Forgetting to take the lizard out of the bath, needing a meeting reminder... I love the juxtaposition of those and how nonchalantly you threw them together 🤣💀 You're hilarious.
She’s REAL. ♥️
You are such an amazing person. I feel your struggles. I’m a dyslexic that is a cross between a bumble bee and cricket… dyslexia sometimes can register as ADD or ADHD. I suspect that your ADD is actually what allows you to be a creative thinker and a problem solver. Which is how you came up with the four organizing types… honestly absolutely brilliant, if not the most brilliant insight to the types of psychology that we fall into and how with you the world and how we deal with that input from the world. You probably have more insight than many therapists that are out there who have degrees in the subject. I have to say that after discovering your channel and following you, you have given me so much insight into how I function as a person/dyslexic person. And have really answered why I’ve struggled for so many years with so many things. Thanks to you finally getting my house under control and have then able to juggle three jobs, house repairs, massive decluttering/organizing as well as go back to school for computer science/software engineering. The tactics that you suggest to help struggling detailed organizers like crickets and bumblebees are actually some of the same tactics I know applied to doing what’s called re-factoring my programming code. Your methods are not just applicable to decluttering and organizing but just so many other things in life. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! You really are having a positive and profound impact on the world, something I could only dream of doing. Keep up the AMAZING work. 🖤🙏
Glad you think so!
I didn't even know lizards needed a bath, ha. Or time in the water at least.
It's because they BOTH are #1...we can't decide what comes first 😂😂 Its all important!
“Every time i bath the LIZARD” 😂 That is the first time i ever heard that comment. And I ain’t young….
Tears are running down my face right now from HOPE. I just woke up yet again without enough sleep, and the familiar feelings of powerlessness and anger with myself for my seeming inability to change my life. Then I heard this thought: "But Cas did it. Maybe I can too." THANK YOU, Cas, for modeling that there really may be an After for me where all these strategies that feel so alien and impossible to maintain finally do start to pay off. ❤🏆HOPE is a GIFT! 🏆❤
Remember to be patient and kind to yourself, it really is the first step at working with ADHD. It's a blessing if you start to enable yourself and embrace the good aspects of it.
Oh a trick I use is to be careful to make a special place for all my things (she mentioned decluttering) and I tell myself I love to do things that I don't necessarily like to do and how lucky I am to have those things to do. Sometimes I still get frustrated or divergent but I'm doing really well and that makes me proud and starts a positive cycle 😊
@@allysoncipollone890 I'm just now seeing your encouraging words. Thank you for your kindness! ❤🙂
I have ADHD. I never knew why I couldn't stay clean and organized like others until I finally was diagnosed a few years ago at 51. I worked hard all the time but still never got there. You have really helped me a lot. Thank you very much!
I'm glad I'm not alone. My husband is on my case about my organization (which I'm grateful for), but he doesn't understand how hard it is for me to not get distracted. He's slowly coming to terms with and starting to understand more about how ADHD affects people, but he still fails to grasp how much ADHDers really need things like a detailed plan for meals or labels for where things go in the house. I feel bad for him for having to put up with someone like me. I'm definitely not letting him go lol.
@@yeahgirl11 I'm sure you have plenty of wonderful qualities too! Don't let the ADHD completely define you!
Because you don't have OCD
I got diagnose relatively recently. I'll be 48 in a week. Man....I didn't even realize half the other stuff I was dealing with...until I started to look at videos about ADHD symptoms...I was like 'THAT's because of ADHD too???' - Procrastination has been a huge problem for me....daydreaming at school....well..you all know this anyway LOL
What was it about being diagnosed that turned things around for you? I need the key! I’m 56, was diagnosed at 40, take meds, but my disorganization and failure to keep a “guest ready” home is not much better than it was pre-diagnosis and pre-meds. I understand myself better, but that doesn’t really do much to affect the changes I need to implement. Any advice u have is appreciated.
Yeah. Decades of not knowing why I never lived up to my potential… Knowledge is power: systems that work with me instead of against me have made a huge difference. I’m such an advocate of making things stupidly easy to put away. And I hate moving things to clean, so I got rid of unnecessary “decor” as much as possible. And I’m at the point now where if it doesn’t solve a problem, I do not buy it. Best wishes to everyone struggling with neurodiversity!
I sent your comment to a friend and her daughter. I have been trying to teach mom that her daughter is not lazy, it’s just that her house is not set up to work with her ADHD. It is actively working against her because both her husband and her mother are strong organizers. They don’t understand how her ADHD makes her depressed which makes her spend money which makes her husband upset which makes her mom annoyed and on and on and on.
My heart goes out to that family. Even a few family sessions with a life coach who specializes in ADHD adaptations might help them. I hope they can work their way to a healthier outcome.
Thanks for sharing!
I loved when you said, "I’m at the point now where if it doesn’t solve a problem, I do not buy it."
"If it doesn't solve a problem, don't buy it!!" genius!!!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with adhd so openly. I always feel so embarrassed when my adhd brain fails to remember simple things or focus on simple tasks. It helps to know others struggle with this too.
My husband has ADHD (diagnosed within the last 18 months) and I have always been upset with why he couldn't focus on chores around the house. With you explaining your own struggles, it helps me understand him a lot better.
You sound like an amazing wife making an effort to understand him better
I wear a small crossbody purse so I never "put it down" anywhere. Keeping it small is key because it limits how much I can carry and everything is easy to find. I love purses with zippered compartments and internal pockets so everything has a place. When I am working as a dog walker, I use a fannypack. I always put my phone in an outer zippered section so it doesn't fall out if a dog jerks or lunges.
Great idea!
Me, too. See above.
I do cross body bags too but only 1 pocket. Or I forget whete I put things . Ultimate ladybug here one big category bag stuff!
Crossbody purse or fannypack (bumbag) here, too. At work, I wear cargo pants or shorts for the many pockets to carry around what I need all day, to avoid leaving them in various places.
Lol... I just bought a tool belt for around the house so I can be hands free with my phone & not constantly losing it. I also put stuff in there I find as I clean that needs put away. So far it's working great.
A little friendly trivia/education for anyone interested! The terms ADHD and ADD are often confused and discussed as if they are different disorders (like at the end of this particular video). The term "ADD" should be abandoned, really, as it is an older term (generally considered to be "outdated") that was removed from the DSM-5 in 2013. ADHD is now considered to be the diagnosis, with three different "presentations" and three modifiers to those presentations (mild, moderate, and severe). For example, my personal diagnosis is "Moderate, Combined type ADHD". I was almost 34 when I finally received the diagnosis!
Yeah as a person with ADD, I don’t appreciate that “the term is outdated.” I don’t like to say “I have ADHD” let alone “I have ADHD inattentive type”
I’m a psychology student and all those changes are not universally agreed upon.
Well the thing is that I’m not hyperactive. So that term alone is already eliminated. But I do have the attention deficit part.
I strongly disagree with this, i have zero hyperactivity. Everything going on with my inattentiveness is on the inside. Maybe i wouldn’t have gone my whole life without accurate diagnosis if everyone didn’t assume a figity hyperactive presentation was universal.
Same here (basically lol)! I’m not sure of the modifier (probably moderate) but I’m the combined type, too, and found out at 26.
My hyperactivity flips between mental and verbal, so I went under the radar until I learned about the actual nuances of ADHD myself and asked for a diagnosis 😅
@@nikkilesley2525 same here
Lol "If you have ADHD, screen time on your phone is a MUST" 😅🤣😂 I agree!! Lol
When she started singing WHERE DA HOOD AT BY DMX 💀 omg this video is so relatable I literally forget directions names places things and distracted 24/7
There has been a bit written about ADHD lately, especially in women and girls. But it has mostly been about how to cope at work, not in the home. Thank you for being honest. I was diagnosed with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) in my early 60s. I feel it most in my poor executive function skills. This is very helpful to me. Thank you.
You're welcome!
People who have been diagnosed with these kinds of conditions are very gifted and if our gifts are not nourished from childhood they end up with these conditions..
I think it's WAY easier to function at work - it's typically a lot more structured than home life
@@zealbell7817 It's a misconception that everyone with Autism is "gifted". It's the worst when people find out that you're on the spectrum and ask how you're gifted and you're not. My son is gifted in Math, he hates watching tv or movies and would rather just have a notebook and math questions (the more complex, the better)... But if you'd ask me, I'd have to say that the thing I'm the most gifted in is being antisocial. I can go months without seeing anyone but my son and husband and be perfectly happy with that (covid was honestly a breath of fresh air). I'm also extremely good at not laughing at anything... I socially laugh to fit in, but I very rarely will laugh naturally. But I don't think you can call those "gifts". Too many people have seen Rain Man and assume that everyone with autism is some kind of savant.
@@commenter5901 I feel the same way about people with adhd allegedly being so creative, fun etc. I was diagnosed right before I turned 40 and I don’t feel like my adhd gives me any kind of creative, fun edge. It just makes things hard.
I was wrongly diagnosed with adhd at 18 years old. Never felt right but I went with it, because I did have quite a few of the symptoms and they were indeed paralysing from time to time. However, the diagnose was retracted a few years ago. It was all just burnout from complex trauma. I’m very organised, have good executive skills and can concentrate deeply. I excel in university while managing my family, including a baby.
But I can tell for sure that these tips would’ve been SO helpful when I was in the middle of it, scatter brained and easily distracted and always always always with a mind running a thousand miles per hour, yet always somehow fatigued. Im sure these tips will help many people, not just with adhd but burnout too!
Yes! So true
Thank you for mentioning screentime on IPhone!! I'm not diagnosed with ADHD, but my mind is very chaotic often and I do really struggle with managing time and with addiction to my phone and social media. Slowly bringing my screentime limits down further and further over the past couple years is the absolute only way I ever would have learned to function, especially as a stay-at-home mom with no boss to be accountable to. I feel like I want to preach to everyone how much this will help you reach your goals!!
I know right🙏. Thank you dear friend 😘
My problem with the limits is that I can override them. It’s like when you’re trying to make yourself do something by saying “you can have a cookie when you’re done” and your brain goes “but I could just have one now though…”
I have ADHD and Hashimoto's too! I've been binge watching your videos because ever since I got my ADHD mecidine increased, I've been in a super motivated mood and decluttering helps calm me down!
I splurged on a touchless kitchen faucet, but the best part about this type of faucet is that it turns itself off after 30 seconds. No more overflowing the sink because I get distracted with it running (which happened embarrassingly often).
I need this in my life! I literally overflowed the sink this weekend (I do this often) when I was filling it with hot water, I left for a second and forgot...Oops!
I have done this so often lol 😂
I set a timer every time I turn water on inside or ouside! Flooded wood flooring once was enough. Thank heavens my husband was responsible for the first round! Hahahaha
My husband actually offered to get a touchless faucet when we had to upgrade a couple of years ago. It has been the best thing ever!!! I get vary particular about cooking with raw meat and making sure things are clean.
Added ADHD tip, I carry a cross body bag and ALWAYS put my phone, keys and wallet in it and put it in the same place at home. If my purse wasn't tied to me when I go out, I would leave it at store checkouts, etc.
I would absolutely love more videos about this! There are so few really good resources dealing with ADHD and organizing, it's exciting when I come across one like this, that's realistic, helpful and non-shaming.
There seem to be a plethora of organizing guides for people who have ADHD, but they always seem to suggest ugly solutions, like keeping big open, clear or brightly colored bins everywhere. As someone who is not only concerned with organizing my home, (and life), but also with aesthetics, and who has a problem dealing with not only physical clutter but also visual clutter, clear and brightly colored bins are still distracting. They're stressful for me because either I can see the contents too clearly from the outside, or because the colours are all too jarring and constantly demand my attention, or they clash with the calming aesthetic I'm going for in my home.
I recently discovered MUJI, which has beautiful, simple storage boxes and bins of good quality. And there's always Ikea for some simple, clean looking storage options. But if you could talk about methods of reducing visual clutter as it pertains to ADHD people, I'd be very grateful.
Thank you for this video! 😊
Also, "get the lizard out of the tub" was just about the cutest reminder I've ever heard. 😄
I’m a single mom of 2 teenage boys (who have ADHD) and was just diagnosed myself at 36…these are some of the most practical hacks I’ve yet found, thank you! I also run my own jewelry design business from home (literally have a mini studio in my kitchen of all places!) and the clutter gets overwhelming…. I have all these little “project piles”, tiny gemstones and wire and chain, etc. covering the kitchen counters and table currently… it’s a daunting task to just start, but I keep reminding myself that I can tackle small portions and don’t have to finish it all in a single day… it does get difficult when business is booming, but that is the whole goal, right?! At least my boys are also neuro-divergent and don’t mind eating at the coffee table…. 😂
For jewelry projects I use the little flat containers from dollar tree for each one. That way I can stack multiple projects each in its own box and can easily be moved
@@kristinduncan4951 this is a great idea, thanks! I’m trying to picture the containers you’re referring to but drawing a blank… are they specifically for jewelry??
@@ktwhimsy6946 Kristin might get back to you, but the image that popped in my head was those square boxes made to hold scrapbooking paper. Just want to say, I admire you so much for running a business from home with ADHD, *especially* while raising kids. That seems so far beyond my capability right now that you are a Hero to me. Best wishes. ❤
hey im in the process of creating my studio in my kitchenbut dont know where to start..any ideas?
A clear plastic tackle box with all the little sections for beads etc. Is useful to me.
For years I struggled to understand myself and my child. When I came across your channel it was like I finally found someone who understood what we didn't. I have used your system to help us. My son has ADHD, dyslexia & mental health disorders. He does so well with your system. Thank you!
Same... this channel has improved my life & kids so much!
You're so welcome!
Take a look at How To ADHD channel, there's so much knowledge and live tips I got from that channel, some even live changing :)
ua-cam.com/users/HowtoADHD
@@Clutterbug since I have adhd for years what I do is I set up a timer on my phone let’s say for 30 minutes and I do my task without disturbances plus I write my tasks on my planner on my phone and when the task is done I cross that task over😊
Thank you so much for the ADHD stories at the end. I feel UNDERSTOOD. We need more sharing sessions like that to normalize our struggles...because the default is to feel like a complete moron.
You're welcome!
Also another great ADHD cleaning hack is to put your sneakers/trainers on, something about wearing 'outdoor' shoes keeps me in cleaning mode ☺️
I appreciate that we live in a world where resources are now at our fingertips and others are willing to share their experiences and vulnerability so that we don’t have to feel alone in our struggles.
Oh dear Cas... I feel so seen today! As a ladybug with Hashimoto's, I'm quite certain I have undiagnosed ADHD (I'm a little older than 40). Your transparency, honesty, and humility are so comforting and reassuring. Thank you for sharing the steps on your journey that inspire and encourage me so much. You are a gift! 🐞
Thank you so much!
I'm a i think butterfly? With hashimotos. With a bunch of no systems that need systems.
Some great tips. Another from me, because I find myself asking things like, "Did I turn off the iron?" (well, not that one exactly, because I don't iron) or "Did I pay Suzi the money I owed for funeral flowers?" When I DO pay the person (or turn off the stove, or whatever) I try to do something ridiculous, like dancing or singing -- "I paid, I paid, I really truly paid!!"....or "The oven is off - it's really, really off, and I'm clapping my hands in the air!" Then later, when I wonder, "did I....?"...I recall the silliness, and I know it was done. (and if the person asks if I paid for flowers, I can say, "remember when I danced and sang?"..and they always remember!
How I know I've turned off my iron at the end of the day: I unplug it and put the cord on top of the ironing board. I can tell at a glance that it's off and unplugged :)
We are soul sisters, right down to the needing to say "RIP" when mentioning DMX. :) I was diagnosed at 40 as well (with an OCD diagnosis at age 14). Thanks for being brave and talking about your struggles - and triumphs. Everyone needs to hear it - those of us who will say "oh, I do that too!" and those who have said "what's wrong with her/him?" Our stories are healing and destigmatizing. 🙏🐿😄
I was diagnosed at 39. 40 now and learning to adapt. Best wishes to everyone 🙏
I hear you, I'm sitting here thinking, "I'm so glad it's not just me and that she wouldn't be criticizing me!"
Bruh DMX music had mentions of violence against women and rape
"I get sick but that doesn't mean I will remember" 😭 So true ma'am, I haven't been diagnose because I have never try, but even if something is itchy or painful on me, I would just complain but no do anything like check with a doctor or take medicine because my mind just doesn't remember that.
Oh, my sister. Thank you so much. Nobody ever addresses real life ADHD cleaning and organizing videos. I've was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, and it is so validating to hear you tell us that we aren't lazy, crazy, or that we don't care (and for all of those who've spewed out that message to us for years: a hearty F and U.) I panic when getting lost, too and I get lost ALL THE TIME. It is so bad that I have to do tapping to being myself back into my body, for real. And losing the purse. I've left my purse in the airport, in bathrooms including porta-potties, restaurants, at home (numerous times but the worst was when I went on a cross country trip and had to have it mailed to me), and locked it in the car so MANY times that I got fairly skilled at jimmying car locks. I'm so grateful for your skills and humor, Cas. Sometimes all you can do it laugh.
Glad I can help!
Did the dr. Subscribed you any medicine? After listening to this video and reading your message, I think I have ADD or ADHD for sure.
I also highly recommend checking out HowToADHD - Jessica is amazing!
@@mariaf7974 I take Ritalin
highly recommend putting a Tile in your purse!
OMG please make more of these videos regarding ADHD. I am also a women diagnosed with ADHD at 40 who love organization and searching hours for short cuts. Thanks for being honest. It’s so helpful and inspiring! 🙂
I have ADHD too! Organizing and decluttering tend to be challenging for me, and that's how I ended up on your channel lol. Truly, thank you for sharing your stories, experiences, and knowledge with us. It helps fellow ADHD ppl feel represented, inspired, and hopeful; this video did for me :-)
I have found that taking my tablet with me to play narrated cleaning videos while I clean helps me feel like I have a cleaning buddy and keeps me motivated!
My husband is ADHD, and I’m Bi-Polar (I share most of the same symptoms), so this is a great video that makes us feel both seen and encouraged. Thanks for sharing your struggles and solutions Cas.
You're welcome!
Cas, I want to thank you so much for your brilliant approach to this topic.
As someone with ADHD, it can feel condescending and dismissive when someone casually remarks that "everyone is a little ADHD sometimes." Or you talk about your struggle and someone dismisses that as something "we all feel."
But here, you eloquently present your tips in a way that anyone can conceptualize reasonably, even if they don't relate. If you don't find yourself struggling with these things, it's still entertaining to just watch, learn, and appreciate!
You're a gifted communicator, and at the risk of sounding hyperbolic, almost like a minister. The way you teach, inspire, and give us not forgiveness from on high, but the empowerment to forgive ourselves and be better tomorrow.
Perhaps one could say you're a "Home-Ec-umenical" minister 🤣
(Look up the words "ecumenical" and/or "home-ec" for context. I am still over here giggling at my own comedy😂)
Aw, thank you!
Depending on the situation and the person, I may tell them that the last D stands for disorder, which means the condition has a significant impact on daily life. Other times, I make a mental note not to mention ADHD to this person again.
🤣😅
ADHD is a superpower and a struggle. I'm right there with you. My dad used to joke that I could get lost going from my bedroom to the back yard.
My mom made her own "all out of" list in excel and it's one of the things I've adopted in my adult life to make sure I don't miss stuff on my grocery list. The money-saving hack of sticking to the list only works if your memory is good enough to make a thorough list.
My issue: tidy tote does not get tidied... I'm trying my best! I'm getting better everyday though. Your videos are the best, your tips are the most realistic. Thank you!
I had the same thought, tidy totes pile up too
@@cindyrae3423 I'm to far gone for a tidy tote to help. A portable junk drawer! BUT I persinally need to declutter. Tidy tote works if you have a home for its content. I will reach that goal eventually 💪
You're so welcome!
I found the same. I just accepted that the way I clean is the way I clean. I get help from my kid if he's available to run items to their homes. Or I walk them there myself. If I get distracted and start tidying at that location, such is life. That place needed tidying too. I try to avoid distraction by literally talking to myself ("back to the kitchen"). But if I find a bill that needs paying, I pay it now before I forget. Or I lay it on the computer keyboard to remind myself to do a transfer. A tote would just be a compost bin for me. But I bet it works well for some folks
Ahaha I thought the same! "If I put that in there, it's potentially never coming out." 🤣
I really love the tidy tote idea! If I leave a room, it's all over.....and I don't even have adhd!
I'm 52 years old I can tell you I have most of the symptoms of ADHD. I have never been diagnosed because when I was coming up you didn't hear of it. My daughter was diagnosed in elementary and that's when I realized I had many of the same struggles from a child into adulthood. Of course, I was in denial for a while. It's great getting tips from someone who really knows the struggles instead of a perfect Patty who doesn't understand and would be judgmental.
Although not diagnosed, I've recently realized that I, too, have some ADHD symptoms. (It explains a lot!) Thank you for raising awareness and sharing your hard-earned wisdom with us.
This is truly one of the best guides for daily life with ADHD I have ever seen. As a woman in her 40s with severe ADHD, the struggle is SOOOO real. It impacts every part of your life. I can 100% relate to your story at the end. I call myself "directionally challenged". Even with a map I can get lost. When I'm trying to go somewhere I've never gone before or I have an important appointment, I tend to leave the radio off just so I can focus entirely on the directions being given by Google and not get distracted. My brain is going a mile a minute anyway so I keep myself entertained. lol I'm on Adderall and while that doesn't "solve" it 100%, it definitely helps me be able to function like an adult...mostly. Medication isn't for everyone, but I tell people it's usually worth a try.
This makes me feel so much better 🥲 I’m 22 and I’ve always been so bad with direction and I’ve had family laugh at me but it’s not my fault and I try really hard to remember but I just forget so easily.I feel like I have so much going on in my noggin and I get anxiety when driving so it’s hard to focus on how I’m driving, music, someone talking to me and remembering where to turn exactly. It’s hard everyday can be so anxiety inducing with everything going on around me I get so scared I won’t be able to live by myself without some kind kind of help but I’m trying my best. I tried to take adderall but it gave me even more anxiety, sweating and heart palpitations so not sure I can be on meds :/
@@jacic1558 I feel you. I have had to deal with family that call me "featherbrained" or "forgetful", "lazy", etc. It's hard for someone who isn't neurodivergent to understand it's a neurological disorder, not a moral failing or a lack of intelligence or lack of trying. I lived by myself for years. It's definitely tough, but doable. Hang in there. There are non-stimulant-based options for meds. Vyvanse is one I see highly recommended. I would love to try it but my insurance won't cover it. Also, Adderall is very finnicky. You have to find the right dose, get the extended release so it doesn't dump everything into your system all at once, and I always suggest the name-brand because the generic is terribly inconsistent. I also take welbutrin for depression and anxiety so that helps. If meds aren't an option for you I suggest trying to find a therapist who specializes in ADHD or there are people called ADHD Coaches that kind of act as life-coach/therapist for people with ADHD. Might be worth it to help with your anxiety. Good luck. You got this! *hugs across the internet*.
Yes the struggle is so real .....I thought something was wrong with me
@@sexytrinieyes technically, there is. That's part of the issue. People see the symptoms of ADHD as moral failings. Like it's somehow our fault that our brain's dopamine receptors are messed up and that causes extreme systemic problems. It really should be treated as the legitimate disability that it is. It affects energy levels, sleep, executive function, attention, emotional stability, our sense of time, relationships, social interactions.... But ya know... To anyone without it "it's no big deal".
Turn me around and I'm lost. Last year I got a newer (2014) car that has a radio screen with the different things on it. I like the little compass that tells me what direction I'm going, so if I got lost I knew to go (and be able to stay) in the opposite direction, lol. But a month or 2 ago my radio stopped working, which means the navigation did too.
My husband has ADHD and he calls it his super power. 😂. I'm the "Joe" of our relationship and have everything organized to the minute. Lol. I mean.... We're crazy. But it works. Love your videos
The part about the drive!! 😂😂 it’s so real. 20 distractions between A and B.
I'm so lost right now in my ADHD that I have trouble believing you have any executive disfunction at all! You're so organized and put together!
I’d LOVE to see more
ADHD videos! I was diagnosed at 32 and up until that point I thought I was a failure as a homemaker,mother,nurse- every aspect of my life I was failing at. I depend on having hyper organized areas not because I’m type A, but because I won’t know where my stuff is. I live by to do lists, alarms and reminders, autopay options, Apple air trackers on all my things, etc. I’m currently pregnant and so I can’t take my ADHD meds, and it has taken its toll on me. I’ve had to learn to give myself and my loved ones grace, MONOTASK, stay in one area at a time to avoid distraction, and to not over schedule myself. I still feel very overwhelmed a lot, but it does help.
I will be praying for you I can related except for Iam not pregnant I just found out I have adhd some months ago last year I found out I have severe anxiety and I feel like I have been failing as a achristian , wife mom college student and etc I never taken adhd medcine but Iam open to it because it Hard ro function with adhd especially with anxiety
Your not a failure adhd is not easy to deal with my husband said everybody has something that they end having to feel with we all have something different about us that what makes us special and if God allowed us to be this way he surely can help us with it that I believe
Cass, you could have been describing me. I have not been diagnosed with ADHD, but everything you described, is me! I have no sense of direction when going somewhere, I need to make a to do list every night. I’ve given up trying to remember names. I cook, but need to set a timer because I forget what’s on the stove…. Etc. …etc. on the other hand I can easily get caught up in something and suddenly realize it is 2 am and I need to get up in 3 hours. I love your idea of using the Alexa as a reminder and setting the phone to stop the internet at 10 pm. I will have to figure that one out.
I raised a grandson with diagnosed acute ADHD and ODD…… I truly know what it is! I thoroughly believe it can be channeled and can be a gift. As for my grandson….. I could write a book….. !!! 🤦♀️
ADHD is a superpower! The wealthiest entertainers, superstar athletes and billionaire creators have learned to capitalize on it🥰
Hashimotos and ADHD together would be a lot to contend with each day. Wow!
😳 I feel like this video being at the top of my subscriber list was a Godsend! I, too, was diagnosed at age 40 with ADD. Like so many others, I was relieved to find out I wasn't suffering from early-onset dementia or undiagnosed brain damage. And I'm not joking. These hacks will definitely help me! Thanks, Cas! 💓
ADHDer here! I’ve come to love the grocery pickup option that a lot of stores offer now. I’ve always hated grocery shopping. It doesn’t matter if I have a list or not, I get overwhelmed and end up either forgetting items from the list (assuming I’ve even remembered a) to make a list, b) to bring it with me, and c) to consult it while in the store) or getting so flustered that I end up buying twice as much as was on my list (or in my budget). With pickup, you can build your order over days if you want-so fewer worries about forgetting items. There’s not much opportunity for impulse buys, so that’s a win. And when I go to pickup, I don’t even need to get out of the car which makes it less likely that I’ll mosey into another store along the way.
Cannot recommended highly enough
YES! It's made life much more doable! No more needing to procrastinate G shopping!
I really wish my local store could get my orders correct. I've tried multiple times to order and each time I end up missing 1/4 of the groceries I ordered... Hopefully it gets better!
Thank you so much for this 😭 I was diagnosed last year at 37 and everything started to make sense; but the struggle to not feel like a failure is still something so hard to unlearn! I stifle my own creativity (one of my huge strengths!), to do the stuff I think I’m ‘supposed’ to do. Thank you for sharing and being real! It’s so difficult to communicate the struggle unless you’re talking to someone on the same brain wavelength - which is pretty fun too 🤪 when you can unmask and relax and jive with other spicy brains. I’m excited to get into your other videos! I’m currently in the midst of a divorce, and a huge move, on my own. I have some help here and there, but man is it a struggle 🫠 I’m also having to downsize by 90% so I’ve been going down the rabbit hole of decluttering videos 😅 taking notes is one thing, actually putting it into play is like trying to escape quicksand.
Cass you're the best!
Fellow ADHD person here-
2 tips:
1) Get an Alexa ! When I'm getting ready for work/events, she reminds me how many min I have left (ADHD makes me terrible with managing time)
#2) Use a key chain wallet that you can attach directly to your keys, so you don't lose it. You will NEVER lock your keys in the car whilst getting gas ever again
I'm sure these tips are great for those with adhd. However, I think many of these tips and hacks are excellent for anyone. Thanks Cass!
You're welcome!
Figured out my ADHD in my late 30s (just a few years ago) and I finally realized I'm not broken! Just wired differently. Love some of these tips to add to my arsenal.
No, you are NOT broken. I do not have ADD/ADHD, but I had several 2nd grade students with it over the years I taught. They were NOT lazy or uncaring. They were great kiddos with a desire and willingness to learn like anyone else. And they did. What helped the most in my classroom was one-on-one time with classroom volunteers to gently help keep them focused on the current tasks, mainly math and reading. Cass has brilliant tricks to help her keep focused.
Yay!
I also have a Alexa and this is like a savior for me. I have all my reminders on there like "Take meals to work" or important appointments it will remind me. Many people don't get why I have Alexas literally EVERYWHERE but they are a huge assistance and they help me to organize my life and take away so much pressure.
Your organization is my dream. My ADHD makes me feel so overwhelmed I just stand and stare. I don’t have the space the money. I wish I could take a sledge hammer to everything and make it how I want it uh oh no money and I’m rambling.
My husband has ADHD and it’s so hard sometimes to be patient and understanding with him. Thank you so much for sharing; this gives me some ideas of how to help him with daily tasks!
I am very easily distracted and will forget what I started out to do. I've always thought it was caused by depression. The more I listen to you, I believe I may have ADHD or ADD. I have to set reminders in Google calendar for everything. I've always felt "odd" I think I will talk to my GP this week. Thanks for always being honest and relatable.
You're welcome!
Alexa is part of our family too and helps keep us on track. One tip is you can tell her to put stuff on your shopping list. Anywhere I’m in the house I can yell for her to put something on the lid. My husband and I can both access it on our phones with the Alexa app. Game changer 😂
Another home hack for your shopping list is my use of a Google home mini. I don’t know if it works with other devices but I just love this one! All you have to do is say “Ok Google, put carrots on my shopping list”. This item will appear on my phone shopping list. I never need to have a paper list! It’s always with me on my phone.
Cassi, this video is just so lovely. You being open about ADHD so consistently over the years along with other people is one of the reasons I asked for a diagnosis. It explains so darn much!!
I love the ideas in the kitchen, lol I’m a great cook… when I stay focused on cooking, but often it’s boring and I’m doing 5 other things also. So permission to watch a show at the same time helps!!
I have left keys everywhere as a kid, so this made so much sense that other experience this too with ADHD. I think zoning is necessary for ADHDers!! But honestly, if it’s easier for us, it’s helpful for others too. Nothing is wrong with being divergent ☺️
I struggle w/Adult ADHD & wasn’t diagnosed until my 50’s! I can relate to so much of what you’re saying, and I REALLY Apprec all of your tips😃💝🙏🏼❣️❣️. I don’t like to cook either, so I apprec your tips, espec about watching a video in the kitchen while you cook, and “Hello Fresh”!!
Paper clutter is my biggest challenge!! I think I have to read everything before I throw it out, or try to save it.
I hope you do a video one day, on “How to get rid of paper, or organize what’s necessary to keep, throw away the rest, & stay ahead of Paper Clutter”!
I NEVER LOSE MY KEYS or my purse, and here’s why: I put my keys on a hook (that also has 3 other hooks for my hubby’s keys, etc., and it’s by the back door. As soon as I come home, I hang them up, so I NEVER have to look for them!!
I wear a small crossbody wallet, that I clip my keys to, when I’m shopping. I put my phone inside my crossbody in the front pocket so that helps keep me organized when I’m out.. Thanks for connecting us all, & helping us to feel “normal”. GOD Bless you & keep you😃💝🙏🏼❣️
Thank you for being transparent! I also struggle with ADHD and I am seeing it alot in my adult son. I feel bad that he has been struggling with this his whole life without knowing.
You're welcome!
Same, Dawn. My son burned himself last night because he was crashing around from one task to another and unable to slow down and just concentrate on one thing at a time
I also find induction stoves helpful because many models only work when there is a pot on them and they will switch off when the pot gets dangerously hot if left unattended.
I used to put my phone down and be looking for it all the time. But now i have a phone case that's on a strap, and it also holds my credit cards. I bought it on amazon. It hangs like a crossbody all day on my body. Now i never look for my phone anymore. Its perfect!
Your "story" hack to remember someone's name is actually one of the tricks taught by the Dale Carnegie training. It is very useful for remembering all sorts of things.
Awesome!
My husband did the Dale Carnegie training and I was wondering if it was from that... I may need to try it!
Thank you, Cas. Even those of us who don't have ADHD can benefit from some (or all!) of these hacks. I love your stories at the end. Google Maps is the best!
I was thinking the same thing
You're welcome!
I never realized there was someone who forgot as much as I do. I also don’t love cooking, cleaning, and get bored very easily. 😂 thanks for being real
Not leaving the room when you’re cleaning, such a great simple idea. Great tips thanks!!
Really appreciate these videos. I am currently waiting to be assessed for ADHD myself (at 43 years old). I have been struggling so much with “regular” organisation and tidying programs/books so it’s super nice to have something that targets the challenges that people with ADHD have. Can really relate to the distraction problem: if my goal is to get into the shower the moment I get home from work, it usually takes me an hour to get in the bathroom!
Thanks for sharing!
An hour? It could be hours for me or even a day (I’m recently retired).
As someone with autism + ADHD this is incredibly helpful. I live alone, so it's a constant struggle to keep myself on task 😭
I only realised how absolutely terrible I am with so many "basic" things when I finally moved out on my own. When I was living with family, I would piggyback off of others (body doubles). For example, I'd wake up, see that everyone was showering, brushing their teeth, and having breakfast... I had them as visual reminders of what I was meant to do.
Hey, that was what I did too.. hahaha. But I never had a clue I did. Until like… now
Yessss the body double thing for sure
@@Mascha_Eleonora right
It's so tricky living alone. 🤦♀️
holy... I was aware I was doing this since I was a kid, and I kept searching if it was a thing that other people did, but I could never find the name... until now. It is always so much easier to do things if someone else is doing them as well. Thanks
I used to be able to remember everything! Until I got chemo. After that, my short term memory leaves me quickly. I make notes in my phone, set alarms, etc to help myself remember things. Even then, sometimes I still forget. It's frustrating. I like your ideas! 😊❤
I never realized my stress when cooking could be linked to executive skills. This makes total sense.
I am here for this! My husband is an adhd butterfly so I always struggle to make it easier to put things away and find things to lessen that overwhelmed feeling he can get with every day tasks.
Hope this helped!
I have been self-diagnosed with ADHD by myself and many others. Thankfully there is a part of me that is very detailed, which helps a lot. I am not as bad as you, but some things you said resonated. For example, I am very random. Squirrel... Shiny objects catch my attention too easily. For me I cannot have distractions if it is really important. I just keep repeating what it is I am doing over and over out loud until I am there. And I use timers and alarms all the time too.
I feel SOOOO seen. I never understood why I could not bring myself to cook dinner without a podcast or show! Also, knowing I am not alone in lacking short-term memory is a game changer for me. i have always felt upset at myself that I forget what I am doing in the middle of a task.
I use Alexa to keep my shopping list. Also, my to-do list and reminders of tasks, important dates, and appointments.
My husband has ADHD and ASD. He struggles with a lot of the things you mentioned, although not as severely as you do. I love watching videos like this to help me be more understanding and also help find solutions that work for his ADHD brain.
ADHDers and Autistics have a really hard time finding partners who can tolerate our differences. Thank you for being on your husbands team! That’s amazing.
I knew there was something different about me my whole life. I was finally diagnosed with ADHD at 43. My life makes sense now. The diagnosis is what brought me to UA-cam to find hacks to live easier. I can relate to everything you talked about in this video especially going to the store spending hours and forgetting why you really left home. Thank you for the hacks! I really appreciate your videos!
Me too! Diagnosed at 43 and I am so happy to be able to start understanding myself more and give myself more grace.
I feel this so much. Diagnosed this year at 33 and I never had even considered adhd as something I could have. Not even a blip. I was one of those kids that was really into school so I did really well, so how could I possibly have ADHD? Thank goodness for the internet, otherwise I'd never have known, never have gotten tools I needed to live a functional life, never have gotten into learning how to control impulses. It's BANANAPANTS! I love our ADHD community though.
Totally bananapants!
Didn't realize what's the daily challenges ADHD people must face. Thank you for sharing this, Cas.
"im not a complete moron, i just have adhd" awareness after finding out the truth...gurl, you dont have a clue how i can relate to this💞
I spent my whole life thinking that I was just not good at anything. Listening to you for a while now, I have started to realise I might have ADHD. Everything you have said resonates with me. I am exactly like you! I will start getting a diagnosis started. Thank you so much for showing me that there might be a way to live with my brain!
Franziska: I Laughed SO “out loud” at the beginning of this vid when she said “I am not good at LIFE!” Same, girl, SAME! I was part of an amazing ADHD “community” on the app Clubhouse while it lasted during the pandemic. It disintegrated after vaccines came along & people went back to normal life. I miss it so much. Dr Ned Hollowell’s books such as Driven to Distraction, Delivered from Distraction, ADHD 2.0 may help you.
The driving story! I can so relate Cas! My dependence on my phone to give me directions caused more than one, cough, discussion with my husband (Mr. Go-there-once-and-remember-the-route-forever)! I never thought of it as a part of my ADHD. I was diagnosed in my late 50’s. Thanks for sharing!
I love how my parents had this "all out of" sheet in the 90's already. It was just a stack of papers with categorized common groceries and then some empty lines for non-common stuff, and they would check everything that they had run out of as they were planning their grocery trip. My dad made it himself and I'm actually thinking I need this for myself lol (but maybe in a digital notebook version)
What's also nice is that you can go through the list going "do we need bread? yes/no do we need pasta? yes/no" rather than remembering what is not there which is particularly hard in my experience
I like the tidy tote idea because leaving the room 100 times to put stuff away is exhausting and distracting! Thanks for the tips!
I relate so much to that end story. I missed the turn to my son's daycare that I drive to at least twice a week. Why you ask? Because the light was green and it had always been red before and I just... Drove right through it. 😅 I am currently in the process of getting a diagnosis. I'm 35 and in college and realized a diagnosis was probably important at this point. Thank you for being so open! ❤️
I've been wanting to talk to a doctor because I'm pretty sure I also have adhd I related with so much of what you said. Meal planning has always been great for me but about a year ago I was getting burned out from it and searched meal planning tips on UA-cam. That's how I found the minimal mom and then found you! I took her suggestions and made myself a monthly meal plan that I basically copy and paste each month and just swap out some seasonal things it has helped so much.
I can't even function with that. lol
Thanks for sharing!
That's a great idea! That's a problem for me also.
REMEMBER JUST BECAUSE IT WORKS FOR YOU ITS DOSNT NESSERCERY WORKS FOR OTHERS!!! THAKS FOR THE TIPS
These pics don’t even begin to encapsulate the magnitude of the overwhelming soul crushing despair I feel just thinking about walking into this room…let alone even attempting to tackle this colossal nightmare alone. It mentally and physically paralyzes me. It has been in this condition for about 5 years. I don’t have any (non-judgmental, etc…) friends or family close by that are able to come help me, nor do I have the $ to hire anyone. When your total take home pay for the entire year is less than 9k, paying for someone to help is Out of the Question!!!
I was diagnosed just a few months ago with ADHD (I am 32), but I already have so many coping mechanisms from watching your channel. I found it YEARS ago. It was a light bulb moment for me to stop working against my brain and to start working with it. My diagnosis was no surprise and you helped make my home more peaceful.
I'm so glad!
Cass! YES! THIS video! I can't tell you how life changing this will be for me! Your openness about ADHD (which I've learned recently is call executive dysfunction or executive function developmental delay, helps me to know its recognized as a neurological disorder) anyway...your openness about your struggles us SO FREEING! The shame I've experienced in my life from well meaning people who thought I just needed more motivation was crippling and effected my self esteem until 3 years ago, yes at 42 years old...I was diagnosed and it was so reliving to know I wasn't a failure. My life started to change for the better after I knew this diagnosis and I got real help &stopped beating myself up so much! I struggle with ALL the things you do & I'm so comforted to hear I'm not alone! Thank you 1 million times! Your stories were hilarious & related to them ALL, so much so that I thoight you were talking about me! I write this in extreme gratitude for your channel & tips too! I've been meaning to reach out to you & say thanks! I found you a while back through Dawn, the minimal mom & you've been helping me ever since! I hear your "Cass-isms" as I like to call them in my head regularly! Thank you thank you! You are helping me, along with Dawn's & Dana's advice too, to change my life...FINALLY after 40 years of struggling thinking I was broken & I'd never succeed. And I so wish I knew you were in Baltimore, I live there & I would've met you for coffee & some hilarious distracted conversations where we forget each others names...LOL! Just know I'm here rooting you on, keep being raw & real, I love it! I'll be DEFINITELY initiating some of these ADHD tips! And I'll be sharing this video with family (5 out of the 7 of us in my family have ADHD 🤪) & friends for sure! More people NEED to hear this! Love you & thank you again, my ADHD sister! 💜
My family often told me that I was lazy. Teachers remarked that I constantly forgot my assignments, or didn't pay attention. My feelings were often hurt. That feeling of being a failure is definitely a real bitch. After being diagnosed (at 45!) it all made so much sense, I'm not lazy or lacking in the ability to focus because I'm "bad" 🙂 I confess I am occasionally lazy and/or bad, however I now do it with intention, lol!
This was my childhood too. Constantly told I was lazy, lacked discipline and was a "bad" kid. If I had known I had ADHD then, I would have been so much kinder to myself growing up.
Thank you for such an extended comment. I have shared this video with a friend whose daughter could be you! I really hope they read through all the comments and see how refreshing it is to not be called lazy. We live in Northern Virginia, near Tysons. Would it be fun if you two could get together!
I've been diagnosed with ADHD today in a BetterHelp counselling session. Noone has ever suggested it. Now it seems so obvious why I'm struggling to do what I mean to do, am a workaholic, chocoholic, sugarholic, can't rest and have some really rough health issues as a result. Thanks for this video, just starting to explore it all. I already feel so much better having had the diagnosis. Looking at my behaviour with some curiousity and patience rather than feel annoyed at myself and guilty 😊
I just commented on your Bee video on how that style of organizing will likely help the struggle between the disorganization of ADHD and the absolute need for organization to prevent sensory overwhelm due to ASD. Then I found this video and realized you're also neurodivergent! Instant subscription!
Thanks for subbing!
Bless you for this honesty! Not only did I "like," I shared this with my DIL since AdHD swims in my stream of my son and grandsons gene pool.
I have shared multiple times with my husband your videos. I always say, “it’s like if someone jumped in my ADD brain & gets me.” I wanted to cry happy tears listening to you in this video. Please, please share more ADD coping skills for us Ladybugs. I was diagnosed at 32. The coping skills I have in place seem to not be working 10 years later. Any other Ladybug hacks, ADD coping skills & self help you have please share. 😍
I feel the same!!
Also a ladybug 🐞
The Screen timer is an AMAZING thing. My phone goes into a black and white thing instead of cutting off the internet but that visual is SO important to bed time and it makes my phone less interesting
I often struggle to remember whether I did a minor but important task, like locking the door or turning off the oven. Sometimes, I'll pause and narrate it out loud. It also helps to do something really unusual paired with the action. For example, lock the door and do the chicken dance. Turn off the oven and spin in a circle. You might not remember the routine thing, but you'll remember the novel thing