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What is the 24 hour rule for ADHD? 

The ADHD 24-hour rule is a helpful strategy for managing impulse control and improving decision-making. It suggests waiting 24 hours before making any major decisions, particularly those that are emotional or reactive. This rule provides a pause that allows individuals with ADHD to reflect on their choices, reducing the likelihood of hasty, regretful actions. 

Because ADHD often affects emotional regulation, people with the condition may struggle with impulsive reactions in the heat of the moment. The ADHD 24-hour rule creates a structured approach that helps individuals think through the consequences of their decisions, providing clarity and preventing unnecessary conflict or mistakes. 

How It Helps with Decision Making 

Encourages thoughtful reflection 

By waiting 24 hours, individuals with ADHD can gain perspective on their emotions and the situation, leading to better decision-making and less impulsivity. 

Reduces rash actions 

The ADHD 24-hour rule helps prevent hasty decisions driven by emotional reactions, which can often lead to regrettable outcomes. 

Enhances emotional control 

This rule supports emotional regulation, as it gives time to process feelings and respond more calmly and rationally. 

Incorporating the ADHD 24-hour rule into daily life can improve decision-making, reduce impulsive behaviour, and help individuals with ADHD manage their reactions more effectively, leading to better outcomes in personal and professional situations. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Social Relationships. 

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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.