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How can mindfulness practices aid in managing ADHD symptoms? 

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Mindfulness practices have been shown to be highly effective in managing ADHD symptoms, particularly in improving attention, emotional regulation, and reducing impulsivity. Both NICE NG87 (2025) and NHS (2025) recommend mindfulness as a non-pharmacological strategy to help individuals with ADHD better regulate their emotions and enhance focus. Techniques such as breathing exercises, guided meditation, and mindful movement can complement other ADHD treatments, such as behavioural therapy and medication. 

Effective mindfulness strategies for ADHD 

Mindfulness meditation is often used to improve attention control and reduce impulsivity. Short, daily sessions focusing on breath awareness and body scanning can help individuals manage hyperactivity and stay grounded in the present moment. NHS (2024) suggests using mindfulness to promote calmness and focus while reducing anxiety that commonly accompanies ADHD. Additionally, progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery, as advised by Sheffield Children’s NHS (2023), can help children and adolescents with ADHD manage stress and emotional outbursts. 

PubMed (2024) also supports the use of mindfulness-based interventions, showing that they significantly improve impulsivity, emotion regulation, and attention in children with ADHD. When used in combination with family engagement, these practices can produce lasting improvements in executive function and daily life management. 

For more tailored support and strategies, ADHD Certify offers professional assessments and personalised approaches to mindfulness and ADHD management. 

Key takeaway 

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation, are valuable tools for managing ADHD symptoms. They help improve attention, emotional regulation, and reduce impulsivity, all of which contribute to better overall functioning. When combined with other interventions, mindfulness can significantly enhance executive function and daily life management for individuals with ADHD. 

Avery Lombardi, MSc, author for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
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, 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.