Working Memory Isn't Working in ADHD: What to Do

Summary

Host Russ Barkley discusses the challenges of working memory in individuals with ADHD, drawing parallels to a GPS device guiding behavior over time. He emphasizes the need for external aids to compensate for poor working memory, suggesting low-tech solutions like sticky notes and to-do lists over high-tech alternatives. Barkley also addresses the importance of rehearsal and self-talk for adults and invites viewers to share their effective strategies for managing ADHD.

Takeaways

• 🎭 The host, Russ Barkley, humorously introduces himself as a 73-year-old man reviewing ADHD while dressed like Jack Sparrow.
• 📝 The episode focuses on the issue of working memory in individuals with ADHD and how it affects their ability to perform tasks and guide behavior.
• 🧠 Working memory is distinguished from long-term memory and is associated with the frontal lobe of the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex.
• 🗺 There are two types of working memory systems: verbal, mainly in the left frontal lobe, and visual-spatial, which uses imagery and spatial information.
• 🚗 Working memory functions similarly to a GPS, guiding individuals toward goals and tasks with the use of images and self-talk.
• 🔑 The key to addressing working memory issues in ADHD is to offload the mental representations onto external devices or cues.
• 📑 Low-tech solutions like sticky notes, paper calendars, and journals are often more effective than high-tech devices for managing working memory.
• 🖼 Visual aids such as images, picture sequences, and symbols can serve as physical reminders to help individuals with ADHD remember tasks and routines.
• 📝 Adults with ADHD can benefit from making to-do lists and using self-talk during tasks to maintain focus and guide behavior.
• 🤔 Rehearsing strategies and creating 'when-then' plans can prime recall and help individuals remember what needs to be done when they reach a certain situation.
• 🗣 The host invites viewers to share their own tips and experiences in managing working memory issues, fostering a community of shared wisdom and experience.
• 🔍 The next lecture will challenge Jordan Peterson's theory of ADHD, addressing criticisms and providing evidence against the theory's validity.

Q & A

What is the title of the episode being discussed in the script?

The title of the episode is 'Working Memory Isn't Working'.

Who is the host of the 'Adventure before dementia' channel?

The host of the 'Adventure before dementia' channel is Russ Barkley.

What is the main focus of the episode in the script?

The main focus of the episode is on working memory and its challenges, particularly in individuals with ADHD.

What does the host suggest is a common problem among kids, teens, and adults with ADHD?

The host suggests that a common problem among kids, teens, and adults with ADHD is the difficulty with working memory.

What is the role of working memory according to the script?

Working memory is responsible for holding mental representations in mind that are pertinent to the tasks we have to do and that govern our behavior toward our goals and other activities.

What are the two working memory systems mentioned in the script?

The two working memory systems mentioned are the verbal working memory system and the visual imagery and spatial information system.

What does the host compare working memory to in the script?

The host compares working memory to a GPS device, guiding behavior over time toward a destination or goal.

What is one solution the host suggests to overcome working memory problems in individuals with ADHD?

One solution the host suggests is to offload working memory by using external storage devices or visual cues to prompt and guide behavior.

What are some of the low-tech solutions mentioned for offloading working memory?

Some low-tech solutions mentioned include using paper, sticky notes, cards, signs, symbols, pictures, and cues.

Why does the host believe that high-tech solutions might not be as effective for individuals with ADHD?

The host believes high-tech solutions might not be as effective because they require time and effort to use, can be misplaced or have dead batteries, and often require someone else to enter the information for them to be useful.

What does the host suggest as an alternative to high-tech solutions for adults with ADHD?

The host suggests using paper and pencil, to-do lists, and journals as alternatives to high-tech solutions for adults with ADHD.

What is the host's plan for the next lecture?

The host plans to address Jordan Peterson's theory of ADHD and provide evidence against it in the next lecture.

What does the host encourage viewers to do if they have found useful tips for dealing with ADHD?

The host encourages viewers to share their useful tips through the reply button on the video so that others can benefit from their experiences.