Why do individuals with ADHD struggle to follow verbal instructions? 

For many people with ADHD, remembering or acting on spoken directions can be a daily frustration. It might seem like inattention, but research shows it is more about how the ADHD brain processes, stores and recalls verbal information. According to NHS guidance, individuals with ADHD are often easily distracted and may struggle to hold on to multi-step instructions, particularly in busy or noisy environments. NICE guidance (NG87) explains that difficulties with organisation, planning and working memory play a central role in this challenge. 

Understanding the link between attention, memory and verbal processing 

Many people with ADHD find it difficult to remember or act on spoken instructions, and this is not simply about “not listening”. According to NHS advice for adults with ADHD, challenges with attention, working memory and distractibility mean that following instructions can feel harder in both classroom and work settings. NICE also recognises that ADHD affects organisation, planning and time management, which are essential for remembering and carrying out tasks. 

Research published in 2025 highlights that adults with ADHD often show reduced verbal working memory and use fewer memory strategies when given multi-step directions (PubMed study). These executive function limitations make it harder to hold auditory information in mind while also managing distractions. Evidence reviews from PubMed Central suggest that when cognitive load increases, individuals with ADHD are more likely to lose track of spoken details, especially if instructions are long or complex. 

Practical strategies that can help 

NHS resources recommend breaking tasks into smaller steps, using written or visual prompts, and providing clear, structured instructions (Nottinghamshire APC Guide). NICE guidance supports the use of psychosocial interventions that teach organisational skills and planning techniques. For some, ADHD medication may also improve attention and memory, making it easier to process verbal information (NICE Recommendations). 

Key takeaway 

Struggling to follow verbal instructions is a well-recognised part of ADHD linked to differences in working memory and attention control. With tailored strategies, structured environments and professional support, individuals can learn practical ways to manage these challenges and follow instructions more effectively. 

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.