How to Divide Housework in a Household with ADHD

PostedNovember 14, 2025

UpdatedNovember 17, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

In households where ADHD is present, the division of housework can often feel unbalanced. The executive function challenges associated with ADHD, such as difficulty with task initiation, time management, and staying organized, can make managing daily chores feel overwhelming. According to NICE Guideline NG87 (2025), structured, visual systems like chore charts, task lists, and shared calendars are recommended to make responsibilities clear and to reduce confusion. These tools help families navigate the complexities of housework by breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

Collaboration is key

The NHS Independent ADHD Taskforce Report (2025) highlights the importance of collaboration and communication in ADHD households. Setting clear expectations for each partner’s or family member’s responsibilities reduces misunderstandings. Tasks should be assigned according to individual strengths, with regular check-ins to make sure everything is on track.

According to a study in PMC (2024), explicit division of labour and flexible chore systems can significantly reduce resentment and conflict. Using visual timetables, colour-coded boards, and reminders can help everyone stay aligned and reduce the mental burden of remembering tasks.

Practical tools to manage housework

Occupational therapists, such as those from The OT Centre (2025), recommend breaking complex tasks into simple actions and using external tools like alarms, reminders, and visual cues. These strategies help individuals with ADHD maintain focus and consistency when it comes to household chores.

Additionally, adaptive routines that are reviewed and adjusted regularly ensure that household responsibilities don’t become overwhelming, especially as ADHD symptoms fluctuate.

The reassuring takeaway

Housework in ADHD households does not have to feel chaotic. By using visual tools, clear communication, and flexible systems, families can reduce confusion and prevent resentment. With consistent collaboration, everyone can contribute in a way that aligns with their strengths, making chores feel more manageable and less stressful.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.