How can I address procrastination in my adolescent with ADHD? 

Procrastination is a common challenge for adolescents with ADHD, but there are effective strategies that can help improve task initiation and completion. Research from NICE and NHS highlights that structured routines, external reminders, and positive reinforcement are key to managing procrastination. 

Effective strategies for addressing procrastination 

NICE NG87 (2025) suggests using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and structured interventions to reduce procrastination. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps and using visual schedules or timers can help improve focus and organisation. NHS (2024) recommends starting with the easiest tasks first and setting clear, short deadlines to avoid avoidance behaviours. Encouraging self-monitoring and task tracking can also boost self-regulation. 

Additionally, RCPsych (2025) advises using positive reinforcement to motivate adolescents and build consistency. Reward systems tied to task completion, along with goal charts and visual reminders, help sustain motivation and reduce procrastination. 

Building self-motivation and consistency 

Providing a quiet, distraction-free environment and regular check-ins can help adolescents stay on track. ADHD Certify offers tailored assessments and strategies to address procrastination and improve task initiation in children and teens with ADHD. 

Key takeaway 

Addressing procrastination in adolescents with ADHD involves creating structured routines, using visual supports like timers and planners, and reinforcing positive behaviours. These strategies, when consistently applied, can help improve focus, reduce avoidance, and foster independence. 

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

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.