ADHD children and adults may benefit from incorporating play into their routine in order to reduce stress associated with being ADHD.
Play can take many forms, from physical activities like sports and outdoor games to creative pursuits like painting and music. No matter what form it takes, play has been shown to have a positive impact on ADHD individuals.
Here are some ways that play can help alleviate stress associated with ADHD traits in a world that isn’t designed with you in mind:
1. It can improve executive function
Executive function refers to the cognitive processes that help us plan, organize, and execute tasks. These processes are often complicated in ADHD individuals. However, play can help improve executive function by providing opportunities to practice these skills in a fun and engaging way.
For example, playing a game that requires planning and strategizing, such as chess or a board game, can help improve attention, working memory, and decision-making skills. Similarly, engaging in physical activities like sports or dance can help improve impulse control and self-regulation on their terms.
2. It can reduce stress and anxiety
ADHD individuals often experience high levels of stress and anxiety from trying to fit into societal and cultural norms that don’t work for them. However, play has been shown to have a calming effect on the brain and can reduce stress and anxiety.
Engaging in activities like meditation, yoga, or art can help ADHD folks relax and focus their attention on the present moment. This can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and improve overall mood.
It’s hard to be stressed when you’re having fun with a new game.
3. It can increase motivation and engagement
Many ADHD individuals struggle with cracking the code for their motivation and engagement, particularly when it comes to tasks that are perceived as boring or uninteresting. However, play can help increase motivation and engagement by tapping into intrinsic motivation.
Intrinsic motivation refers to the desire to engage in an activity for its own sake, rather than for external rewards or punishments. When ADHD folks engage in play that they find enjoyable and rewarding, they are more likely to stay engaged and motivated. This effect can sometimes translate to more mundane tasks.
4. It can improve social skills
Social skills are often a challenge for ADHD individuals, who may struggle with impulsivity, hyperactivity, and conflicting social and personal cues. However, play can provide opportunities to practice social skills in a low-pressure environment.
Engaging in team sports, for example, can help them learn to work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and regulate their emotions in the context of a group. Similarly, engaging in creative activities like drama or music can help improve social skills by providing opportunities for collaboration and expression.
5. It can improve self-esteem
If you are ADHD, you may struggle with low self-esteem, which can be exacerbated by the challenges you face in school, work, and social situations. However, play can help improve self-esteem by providing opportunities for success, mastery, and positive feedback.
When you engage in play that you find enjoyable and rewarding, you are more likely to experience feelings of competence and confidence. This can help improve overall self-esteem and reduce feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.
In conclusion, play can be a powerful tool for ADHD individuals, helping to improve executive function, reduce stress and anxiety, increase motivation and engagement, improve social skills, and improve self-esteem. Whether it takes the form of physical activities, creative pursuits, or social interactions, play can provide a much-needed break from the challenges of ADHD and help you thrive.
ADHD and Neurodivergent Therapy in Long Beach and online in California
Prospect Therapy is a queer + trans affirming therapy practice based in Long Beach, CA, with a focus on mental health for first-generation, immigrant, and bicultural communities. We continue to provide online therapy for a variety of mental wellness and relationship concerns to clients throughout the state of California. Learn more about how we bring lived experience to our work with people of all ages in our communities by requesting a consultation below.
Read more about Neurodivergent Affirmative Therapy here.