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How does ADHD affect working memory? 

PostedSeptember 30, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 30, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

ADHD working memory is often impaired, making it difficult for individuals to hold and manipulate information over short periods. Working memory plays a key role in tasks such as following instructions, completing multi-step activities, and managing information. For people with ADHD, these challenges are frequently experienced, affecting daily life and performance in various settings. 

The working memory deficits ADHD are linked to the dysfunction of brain regions that regulate attention and memory. Individuals with ADHD may struggle to remember important details, like where they placed an item, or forget instructions shortly after receiving them. These ADHD cognitive functions are crucial for managing tasks effectively, and their impairment can lead to inefficiency and frustration. 

Common Symptoms 

Forgetfulness 

One of the most common memory problems ADHD is forgetfulness. People with ADHD often forget details like appointments, deadlines, or even what they were doing mid-task. This is a direct result of impaired working memory and attention regulation. 

Difficulty with Multitasking 

Another symptom is the inability to manage multiple tasks at once. Due to ADHD working memory issues, individuals may struggle to keep track of several pieces of information at the same time, leading to missed steps or incomplete tasks. 

Understanding how ADHD working memory affects cognitive processes is key to finding strategies that help individuals cope with these challenges. With proper support, it is possible to manage these deficits more effectively. 

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 Executive Function Deficits. 

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. 

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