Harnessing AI to Support ADHD
When used effectively, AI can assist with various aspects of executive functioning that individuals with ADHD often find challenging. Here are some of my favorite “hacks” for using AI to support the ADHD brain:
Use ChatGPT to Get Started on a Project
Task initiation can be a significant hurdle for neurodivergent individuals. Starting from scratch often feels overwhelming, causing our brains to gravitate toward tasks that seem easier. Enter ChatGPT: a tool that can provide a starting point or framework to help reduce the friction of beginning a task.
For instance, if you need to hire a nanny, but the process seems daunting, you could enter a prompt like, “What are the steps to hire a nanny?” While the response might not perfectly align with your situation, it can serve as a helpful starting point to create your own process. Sometimes, just having something to build on can make all the difference.
Use ChatGPT to Edit Your Writing
ADHD brains often excel at generating innovative ideas and working quickly but may struggle with task completion and attention to detail. The dopamine rush comes from brainstorming, not the follow-through. However, in contexts like school or work, polished communication matters.
You can feed a draft of a work email or school paper into ChatGPT and ask it to edit for clarity, grammar, punctuation, and tone. This not only helps refine your writing but also gives you the chance to slow down and produce a polished final product.
Use Templates and Snippets to Reduce Redundancy
Tools like Gmail’s Templates or Text Blaze, a Chrome extension for creating shortcuts for frequently typed phrases, can save time and reduce the frustration of repetitive tasks. For example, instead of typing the same email responses repeatedly, you can create templates that handle routine communication efficiently.
While such tools are useful for anyone, they’re particularly valuable for ADHD brains, which often find redundancy intolerable. By minimizing monotonous “busywork,” these tools prevent burnout and conserve your limited cognitive energy for more engaging and meaningful tasks.
Share Your Tips for using Technology to Support Executive Function!
What are some ways you’ve used technology to support your amazing and neurodivergent brain? Sharing your strategies can inspire others to harness technology for their unique needs.
If you’d like to explore the challenges and opportunities of ADHD further, CTC’s compassionate and skilled therapists are here to help! Reach out today for a free consultation with one of our neurodiversity-affirming therapists.