The Forums › Forums › Emotional Journey › Is It Just Me? › ADHD, working memory, and words. A battleground. › Re: ADHD, working memory, and words. A battleground.
Working memory is very much part of having ADHD, so you’re not alone. Some of the things I’ve done to help improve my memory include a couple of apps from iTunes such as Smart Hand’s Memory Training and a completely silly one for kids called Memory Pro.
Smart Hand’s flashes a series of numbers from 0 to 9 in a random order and locations on the display for several seconds, then you attempt to repeat the sequence within several seconds. Frustrating at first, but I find it helps.
The second one, as I said, is completely silly, but consists of matching pairs of cute animal icons by selecting any two of 24 tiles. I’m sure there are others you can download from iTunes.
The current thinking about thisis a concept called neuroplasticity, meaning the brain can change structurally and functionally when worked, much like constant exercise improves muscle tone. It allows the brain to create new links or re-establish older, less used ones.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuroplasticity
There are several computer-based memory training tools of which Cogmed is one.
But there are several other similar programs on-line. There is some controversy about the results claimed by Cogmed and it is expensive, but it was recommended to me by my psychologist.
I also do Soduku puzzles on my iPhone also.
My research into working memory seems to indicate these types of memory tools requires using them up to 20 times a day. I haven’t actually done the 20 times per day, but I have noticed that even with casual use, there seems to be an overall improve.
I also work with words and here’s a couple of tips I use to overcome not recalling the correct word when needed. Just write anything on the page, even if it’s not the word you want, you can look into that later. Or leave that space blank and fill in the word later when you do recollect it. The important thing, I think, is to get the idea down without interrupting the flow. Much like spelling, don’t get hung up on perfection at this point.
Another technique I use is Mind Mapping. That helps you get the ideas down quickly while they’re in your head.
I also do crossword puzzles and it’s amazing how that improved your vocabulary and ability to recall words as required, not to mention the neuroplasticity thing.
Then there is “Toastmasters Interantional” that I have also been thinking about. And in speaking with several co-workers who’ve done it, they said helped them not only speak better, but have learned techniques to think on their feet when giving speeches, I think that may be beneficial to writers such as us.
Hope this helps…and good luck.
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