ADHD Games For People Of All Ages
Executive functions are the mental processes that allow us to do things like multitask, control urges, stay organized, and make plans. Conditions like ADHD can disrupt these functions, leading to various symptoms and challenges in daily life. While a game of cards or a round of chess can’t replace professional treatment, games like these can still be fun ways for people of any age with ADHD to potentially improve their executive functions. Let’s take a closer look at a few popular options.
An introduction to ADHD
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that can cause various challenges in daily life that may come to affect work, relationships, academic performance, and overall well-being. This is because ADHD disrupts executive functions, or the processes in the brain that allow people to focus, plan, and engage in other important tasks. Below are some examples of executive functions that ADHD may affect:
- Impulse control
- Organization
- The ability to follow directions
- Motivation
- The ability to manage emotions
- The ability to shift between tasks
- Working memory, or the ability to hold onto information long enough to complete a task
Challenges with these abilities are sometimes referred to as “executive dysfunction.” ADHD-related executive dysfunction can cause symptoms like:
- Trouble concentrating for long periods
- Forgetfulness
- Procrastination
- Trouble socializing
- Fidgeting or restlessness
- Risk-taking behavior
- Distractibility
- Trouble self-motivating
- Trouble controlling urges
ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, although the number of adults diagnosed with ADHD has been on the rise in recent years. Regardless, ADHD is generally considered to be a lifelong condition. That said, there are various strategies and treatment interventions that may be helpful for a person living with this form of neurodivergence.
ADHD games that people of all ages can enjoy
ADHD is generally considered to be a treatable condition. Therapy is often suggested as a key form of support for those with this form of neurodivergence, sometimes in combination with medication and lifestyle changes. Some practices and exercises may also be helpful in improving daily functioning, such as ADHD games.
ADHD games are not intended to be a replacement for professional treatment, but they may act as supplemental tools for helping improve executive functioning. Games that require the use of memory, planning, cooperation, or focus may be especially helpful. The following are examples of such games that may be suitable for children, teenagers, or adults.
Red light, green light
In this game, players have to move forward and stop based on a leader’s commands. Playing it may help improve an individual’s ability to follow directions and control their impulses. The short duration and simple rules can make it a particularly helpful game for younger children.
Mafia
This social deduction game in which players try to figure out each others’ hidden allegiances can be a valuable tool for practicing attention to detail, strategic thinking skills, and social awareness. As Mafia is a slightly more complicated strategy game, it may be more suitable for older children and adults.
Chess
Chess is a board game that can be enjoyable for children as young as elementary school as well as adolescents and adults. Unlike some other board games, chess doesn’t involve any elements of chance. Instead, it emphasizes the use of strategy skills to capture the opponent’s pieces, which may help individuals in practicing logic and planning.
Tetris
Video game enthusiasts and casual gamers alike may enjoy Tetris, a classic game that involves manipulating falling shapes to make them fit in horizontal rows. Playing Tetris tends to involve focused attention, problem-solving, and quick decision-making, which are often difficult for people with ADHD. It may be appropriate for adults and school-age children alike.
Concentration
Concentration is a card game that involves placing cards facedown on a table and turning them over two at a time to look for matching pairs. If a match isn’t found, players must turn the cards back over. Because any number of cards can be used, the difficulty can be adjusted to allow people of all ages to practice using their working memory.
Individual and team sports
Some organized sports may provide structure, improve self-esteem, and serve as a healthy outlet into which adults and children can channel their energy. Options that may be especially useful for people with ADHD include:
- Hockey, which requires quick thinking, strategy, focus, and real-time decision-making
- Gymnastics, which requires high levels of focus and concentration while offering the chance to practice structured routines
- Soccer, which involves teamwork, cooperation, and communication in a fast-paced environment
- Martial arts, which emphasize focus, coordination, and self-control in a structured environment
Finding the most helpful ADHD game for a given individual may involve some trial and error based on symptoms and personal preferences. Consulting a professional for advice on using games in a balanced and age-appropriate way may be advisable.
Seeking professional support for ADHD symptoms
While playing a game can be a useful way to practice executive functions and social skills, games alone are typically not enough to effectively manage ADHD symptoms. That’s why speaking to a mental health care provider is typically important, if you haven't already. They can evaluate your symptoms and recommend a treatment plan that fits your situation.
Therapy often plays a key role in helping people with ADHD manage their symptoms. A qualified therapist may be able to give personalized advice for improving executive functioning, shifting negative thought patterns, and managing symptoms of any comorbid mental illnesses.
If you’re interested in trying therapy but feel overwhelmed at the thought of finding a provider near you or regularly traveling to and from appointments, you might consider online therapy instead. You can get matched with a licensed therapist automatically and meet with them virtually from the comfort of home. Plus, research indicates that online interventions may be effective in reducing symptoms of ADHD. One 2022 study suggests that online interventions led to improvements in social function and attention in adults with ADHD.
Takeaway
ADHD can cause challenges with executive functions, or the brain’s abilities to do things like control impulses, focus, and multitask. While playing games like chess, Tetris, and sports isn’t a substitute for professional treatment, these can be fun and engaging ways for children and adults alike to practice and sharpen these skills. If you’re experiencing symptoms of ADHD that are interfering with your daily life and functioning, it’s usually recommended that you consult with a mental health professional for evaluation and treatment advice.
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