Childhood ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is one of the most commonly diagnosed childhood ailments. This condition is characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. For 60% of these children, these symptoms will continue into adulthood. Therefore, 4% of the adult population or nearly 8 million people suffer from adult ADHD. Sadly, few adults are identified or treated for the disorder (Adult ADHD Guide).
Being an adult with ADHD can be tough. You may suffer from difficulty following directions, remembering information, concentrating, organizing tasks, or completing work within time limits (Adult ADHD Guide). Because the disorder can be so life-limiting, I’ve found it important to develop coping mechanisms. With the advent of technology, the easiest way to manage the disorder has been through apps. Here, I identify the top 5 FREE iPhone apps for managing adult ADHD.
ADULT ADHD SCREENER (ASRS)
Free by Austin Physician
If you are unsure if you suffer from adult ADHD or not, this app will test to see if you need a more through physician-led exam. Developed in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Workgroup on Adult ADHD, this test can also be used by doctors in their initial screening. It takes less than five minutes and is an effective guide to screening for adult ADHD.
ADHD ANGEL
Free by Daniel Anderton
This is an all-around app for adult ADHDers. You can set reminders to take your medications, set-up emergency contact information, and analyze the main ADHD tipping points. Also, there is a process for sending reports about how you feel and how you’ve managed different behaviors to the doctor before your visit. The coolest feature of the app is that it links up with ADHD Guardian Angel to collaborate if you have a support person.
30/30
Free (In-app purchases) by Binary Hammer
This is a productivity app that was runner-up for the Best Task Manager app in the 2012 Best App Ever Awards. Here, you create a list of tasks, set a timer, and then the app will tell you when it’s time to switch tasks. It also has a user-friendly interface that is easy to work with while it tells you what you’re supposed to be doing right now.
ATIMELOGGER2
Free (In-app purchases) by BGCI
This app tracks how long you spend on everyday activities. Taking only a few minutes each day, it can create daily, weekly, and monthly statistics and charts about how you spend your time. Using this data, you can control and manage your time better.
EVERNOTE
Free (In-app purchases) by Evernote
This is my favorite app on my IPhone. I use it to stay organized, save ideas, and improve productivity. You can take notes, capture photos, create to-do lists, and record voice reminders. The activity that you do is all sychable across PC, tablet, and phone. This is great for college students and working folks alike.
Adult ADHD can be a difficult issue, thus you must take advantage of all opportunities to succeed. These apps are the golden opportunity you’re looking for to manage your life and plan for a positive future.