Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD or ADHD) is characterized by distractibility and difficulty in planning or completing activities, which makes it really hard to sustain a system of organization. However, it can be done!

To organize a space, the individual must be able to develop an organizational plan, devise a system of categories for organizing objects in the space, sort the objects correctly into the categories, put the objects in each category in appropriate storage containers, place the containers in a designated area, and remove or discard any object that are not needed. The individual must be able to focus on the details and continue with the task until it has been finished. Individuals with ADHD have a hard time with these executive functions, and as a result often have difficulty with organizing.

Getting and staying organized is a real challenge for many adults diagnosed with ADHD. This challenge often feels impossible to meet, resulting in the individual getting stuck in an overwhelmed state. It is possible, however, to overcome the overwhelmed feeling and effectively organize the home or office by breaking up the tasks into smaller steps and following a system for accomplishing each step.

Getting organized may help individuals:

• Spend less time finding things
• Be a positive role model for children
• Reduce feeling overwhelmed
• Be more productive in life.
• Make more money
• Improve their marriage/relationships