Do Adults with ADHD Lose Things Often? 

Yes, losing things to ADHD adults is a common issue, primarily due to difficulties with attention, memory, and organisation. Adults with ADHD often experience forgetfulness and organisation problems that make it challenging to keep track of personal items, documents, and even important tasks. This tendency to misplace belongings can stem from executive dysfunction, a core symptom of ADHD. This cognitive difficulty impacts an individual’s ability to plan, organise, and manage daily activities, leading to frequent instances of lost items and forgotten responsibilities. 

Why Do Adults with ADHD Lose Things? 

Adults with ADHD struggle with maintaining organisation and focusing on routine tasks. They might forget where they placed their keys, wallet, or phone, or miss deadlines for tasks they intended to complete. These issues are often exacerbated by executive dysfunction, which makes it difficult to keep track of multiple responsibilities at once. 

Additionally, forgetfulness can make it harder to remember where things were left or what needs to be done. Even when something seems important in the moment, an ADHD brain can easily overlook these details, leading to a cycle of losing things and feeling disorganised. 

Managing the Tendency to Lose Things 

Managing losing things in ADHD adults involves developing organisational strategies and creating routines that help reduce forgetfulness. Using designated places for essential items, setting up reminders, and keeping a daily planner can all help prevent lost belongings. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can also address executive dysfunction by teaching better organisation and time-management skills. 

If you often find yourself losing things due to ADHD, working with a professional can provide personalised strategies to improve your organisational skills. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and explore techniques that work best for you.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD in adults.