In the first week of our course, you'll get the chance to meet fellow participants and we will share the outline and goals for the course. We’ll clear up some of the myths that surround ADHD and focus on evidence-based research. Did you know that around 4% of adults in Canada have ADHD? That is a big number! We will also learn about the role of dopamine and how it impacts the ADHD brain. You will come away with practical tips and strategies to work with your brain. 

Week 2 is all about Executive functions! By the end of this week, you will gain a clear understanding of what executive functions are and how they influence your daily life. Often described as the "conductor" of the brain, executive functions help us manage tasks, make decisions, and maintain focus—essential skills for “adulting.”

We will explore the various components of executive functioning, examine their roles in everyday activities, and discuss how they can present unique challenges for individuals with ADHD. By the conclusion of Week 2, you’ll have a deeper awareness of how these challenges might be affecting you, along with practical tools and strategies to improve attention, prioritization, and planning/organization.

Week 3 will focus on understanding ADHD medications. Whether you are currently taking medication or considering it, this week will provide you with valuable insights. We will cover the brain’s anatomy and physiology as it relates to ADHD, the science behind how these medications work, the various types available, and their potential side effects. By the end of the session, you will be equipped with comprehensive knowledge about ADHD medications, empowering you to make informed decisions regarding your treatment.

In Week 4, we will focus on learning practical strategies to help you better manage your home environment. We will explore how challenges with working memory, a key aspect of executive functioning, can impact home management as well as areas such as goal setting, and problem-solving. Additionally, you will walk away with actionable tools to manage clutter, stay organized, and create more zen in your home. And if laundry is a recurring struggle, don’t worry—we have effective strategies for that too!

In Week 5, we will focus on emotional regulation, a common and often challenging aspect of ADHD. Research shows that ADHD directly affects how the brain processes and manages emotions. Together, we will explore the science behind this connection and how it impacts daily life. Additionally, you will be introduced to strategies from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) that can help improve emotional regulation, enabling you to respond with greater control and awareness rather than reacting impulsively.

In Week 6, we will examine impulse control and why it can be particularly challenging for individuals with ADHD. We will explore the ways in which impulsivity affects decision-making, relationships, financial management, and emotional regulation. By the end of the session, you will be equipped with practical strategies to reduce impulsive behaviors and make more deliberate, thoughtful decisions.

In Week 7, we will explore strategies designed to help individuals with ADHD thrive in the workplace. We will identify common challenges faced at work and focus on effective tools and techniques for enhancing organization, time management, and motivation—especially for tasks that may not capture your interest. By the end of the week, you will have a toolkit of ADHD-friendly strategies to improve your productivity and overall work performance.

In our final week, we will discuss the various lifestyle factors that can significantly affect ADHD, including sleep, nutrition, exercise, and substance use. We will explore how each of these areas influences overall well-being and ADHD symptoms. Additionally, we will create a “dopamenu,” featuring targeted ideas and strategies to help increase dopamine levels. By the end of the session, you will have a comprehensive understanding of how lifestyle choices can impact your ADHD management.