The Mental Load of ADHD: Navigating Struggles and Executive Functioning Skills as an ADHD Parent and Business Owner
- Sarah Hardy
- Jan 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 15
Living with ADHD often means juggling numerous responsibilities while managing a constant mental checklist. For parents who also run a business, this struggle feels even more intense. The mental load can become overwhelming, leaving you questioning why tasks seem harder for you compared to your neurotypical friends and family.
This blog post will examine the unique mental load that ADHD parents experience, how executive functioning skills fit into the picture, and offer specific strategies to help relieve this burden for a more balanced life.
Understanding Mental Load
Mental load refers to the cognitive effort required to manage various tasks and responsibilities. This includes planning, organising, and remembering details, which can transform into anxiety when the load becomes too heavy.
For parents with ADHD, this mental load isn’t just about keeping track of appointments or tasks; it's a constant, complex strain. According to a study by CHADD, about 80% of parents with ADHD report feeling overwhelmed with daily responsibilities. This emotional burden can impact personal life, parenting, and professional duties, often leaving you feeling like you are perpetually playing catch-up.
The ADHD Executive Functioning Challenge
Executive functioning skills are essential for organising tasks, managing time, and controlling impulses. People with ADHD often struggle in these areas, making simple tasks feel like monumental challenges.
Think of executive functioning as the brain's operating system. In ADHD, this system can have glitches or slow response times, complicating everything from adhering to a daily routine to following through with long-term goals or plans. Research indicates that up to 50% of adults with ADHD have difficulties with time management, which can lead to missed deadlines both at home and work.
The Role of ADHD in Parenting
Parenting with ADHD increases the mental load, as you must remember not only your responsibilities but also those of your children. From school pickups to after school club activities, the list seems never-ending. ADHD parents may encounter:
Difficulty creating and following routines: Consistent routines provide structure. Parents with ADHD may find it a challenge to maintain this consistency.
Struggles with impulse control: You might act on impulse rather than sticking to a planned routine. For example, you might decide on a whim to attend a last-minute activity, disrupting your day and not see the possible impact this will have on the rest of the day.
Memory challenges: Forgetting crucial details, from a work meeting to a child’s school event, is common. A survey found that 70% of ADHD parents reported forgetting important appointments at least occasionally.
These challenges make it essential not just to manage tasks but also to safeguard your emotional and mental well-being.
Balancing Business Ownership and Parenting
Running a business while parenting creates additional pressures. Managing your workload can feel like an extreme sport. This dual role of being a parent and an business owner can amplify feelings of guilt and overwhelm.