By Ellyn Elson, CEO, Coloring Concepts, Inc.
What IS ADHD? Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It affects the part of the brain that controls emotions, behavior, and impulses.
And it’s a big deal. A 2023 Forbes Health estimate that approximately 8.7 million adults in the US suffer from this disorder, and the National Center for Health Statistics reported in 2024 that 13.4% of white non-Hispanic children have ADHD.
There can be several negative consequences of ADHD, left unmanaged or unrecognized, that are significant:
- Academic struggles: Students with ADHD may have difficulty focusing in class, completing assignments, and remembering information. This can lead to poor grades and frustration with school.
- Low self-esteem: When students with ADHD struggle academically, they may start to believe they are not smart or capable. This can lead to low self-esteem and a lack of motivation.
- Social problems: Students with ADHD may be disruptive in class or have trouble following social cues. This can make it difficult for them to form and maintain friendships.
- Emotional problems: Untreated ADHD can lead to anxiety, depression, and other emotional problems.
- Risky behaviors: Students with ADHD may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse or reckless driving, in an attempt to self-medicate or cope with their symptoms.
And yet, the simple act of coloring can offer substantial relief. How, you ask? The repetitive motion of coloring can help calm the brain, allowing individuals to focus on the immediate task. Some studies (from the Mayo Clinic, among others) have shown that the complex activity of coloring a page can help an individual stop obsessing over past or future worries and concentrate on the present – in other words, achieve a meditative state.
The focus is potentially increased if learning is part of the coloring process.
Coloring can be a beneficial activity for both children and adults with ADHD in numerous ways:
- Relaxation and stress reduction: Coloring can provide a sense of calm and relaxation by engaging the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s rest-and-digest response. The repetitive and focused nature of coloring can help to quiet racing thoughts and reduce anxiety.
- Focus and concentration: Coloring requires sustained attention to detail and can help to train the mind to focus on a single task for an extended period. This can be particularly beneficial for adults with ADHD who struggle with maintaining attention and focus.
- Creativity and self-expression: Coloring provides an outlet for creativity and self-expression, allowing individuals to explore their artistic side and express themselves through color and design. This can be a therapeutic and enjoyable experience for adults with ADHD who may feel limited in other areas of their lives.
- Sleep quality: Engaging in relaxing activities like coloring can promote better sleep hygiene, which is often disrupted in individuals with ADHD. Coloring can help to wind down before bed and reduce stress, leading to more restful sleep.
- Sense of accomplishment: Completing a coloring page can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem. For adults with ADHD, who may often experience feelings of failure or inadequacy, this can be a valuable and rewarding experience.
- Emotional balance: Coloring can distract from negative thoughts and emotions. This can be especially helpful for individuals who are struggling with anxiety or depression.
- Fine motor skills: Coloring can improve them. This can be beneficial for individuals who struggle with handwriting or other tasks that require fine motor skills or manual dexterity.
- Mindfulness: Coloring promotes a sense of being “in the moment.” This can help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, which can help manage ADHD symptoms
Overall, coloring can be a simple yet effective tool for managing ADHD symptoms and promoting mental well-being in adults and children. It is an accessible and enjoyable activity that can be easily incorporated into daily life.
Early diagnosis and intervention can help students with ADHD reach their full potential. If you are concerned that a student may have ADHD, it is important to talk to a doctor or mental health professional.