ADHD Brain Hacks

This issue dives deep into the lived experience of adult ADHD, starting with the chaotic pre-diagnosis fog and moving into the clarity that comes from finding personalized tools, systems, and support.

June 11, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes

👋 Welcome

Before I knew I had ADHD, I constantly felt like I was just “catching up”—with a to-do list that never ended and a brain that kept hitting “shuffle” on everything I was supposed to remember, wondering how everyone else made adulting look so… possible.

My days were packed but unproductive, and I often wondered, “Am I just bad at life?"

But then came the turning point—a diagnosis. 

It wasn’t a light-switch fix, but it was a start. And over time, the chaos didn’t disappear—but it got quieter. My days still zigzag, but now there’s rhythm because of the systems I found and created that make sense for my brain. 

If you’re in the messy middle, I promise: it gets better. Not perfect—but better. 

This week, I’m sharing the tools and life hacks that just might help you, too. 

🔝 Weekly Highlights

⚡Explore 65 non-medication tips to manage ADHD symptoms
A jam-packed guide of 65 tactics—ranging from the quirky to the life-saving—to make ADHD feel less like herding mental cats.

🧩Medication, education, and therapy in treating ADHD
A classic Mayo Clinic breakdown of the triad that can make ADHD symptoms more manageable: meds, mindset, and support.

🌿Natural remedies to manage ADHD
From zinc to zero processed foods, this piece serves up holistic help for the naturally curious.

👯Body doubling and its benefits for individuals with ADHD
If you’ve ever gotten more done just because someone was sitting near you—not even helping—this one’s for you.

🤣Reddit’s funniest ADHD moments
A crowdsourced comedy club of "wait, where are my keys—oh, they’re in the fridge" moments.

🌈 Main Features

#1 Double Down (In the Best Way)


ADHD brains are creative, fast-moving, and idea-packed—but they’re also prone to getting tangled in everyday tasks like “Where did I put my keys?” or “Was that a work email or a TikTok notification?”

Fortunately, technology isn’t just a source of distraction—it can be a lifeline, and that’s why virtual body doubling has exploded in popularity. It’s a surprisingly effective technique that’s boosting productivity in both remote work and neurodivergent circles.

Think of it like a buddy system for focus: you hop on a video call (Zoom, Google Meet, even TikTok live), say what you’re working on, then... just do it while the other person works too. it’s basically just mutual, quiet-ish accountability.

Originally a tool used by people with ADHD to jumpstart motivation and reduce distraction, body doubling is now being embraced by anyone drowning in to-do lists or struggling to start. The logic? Your brain is less likely to wander when someone’s there, even virtually, watching you not fold laundry or not reply to that email.

There are even dedicated platforms like Focusmate, which make it SO EASY to give it a try.

Productivity, but make it social(ish). 👯‍♂️💻

#2 Focus? There’s an App for That! 

Discover how technology can aid in coping with ADHD symptoms

In this thoughtful piece from Wired, writer Lauren Goode explores how tech tools—from calendar apps and focus timers to virtual accountability partners—are helping folks with ADHD manage the day-to-day. 

While smartphones often get blamed for destroying attention spans, the article flips that script, highlighting how tech can also scaffold executive function challenges.

Goode interviews ADHD professionals and individuals who’ve turned to tools like Notion, Trello, and Pomodoro-style timers to organize their days. She also explores the rise of virtual “body doubling.”

When used intentionally, technology doesn’t have to be the enemy of focus. It can be your best co-pilot. Whether it’s setting multiple alarms for one meeting or using a smart notebook that digitizes your scribbles, the right tech might just make your ADHD brain feel a little more at home in a linear world.

Bonus points: there’s a small dopamine hit every time you check something off your digital to-do list. 📱✅

🧬 Quick Hits

👋 Signoff

Wishing you focused moments, compassionate self-talk, and the occasional “aha!” this week. Until next time, stay curious and kind (especially to yourself).

Remember: your brain is not broken—it’s just brilliant in a different rhythm. 🔁💛

— Mental Health Mail ✨📬