8 Thoughtful Gifts For ADHD Adults
You want to get your friend or loved one with ADHD a great gift, right? Why not get them something that speaks to them?
This is because ADHD can affect a person's ability to complete daily tasks, from work and home responsibilities to hobbies and free time activities, so unless you can gift them with a personal assistant, finding the right gift can be challenging. We're here to help! We have found great ideas that make wonderful presents for adults who have ADHD.
We've researched some of the best types of gifts that tend to go over well with those who have this diagnosis and put together a list of our top picks. Keep reading for some inspiration as you shop for your favorite ADHD-diagnosed adult!
How We Choose
We went on a review-reading marathon and handpicked 8 of the coolest options for you. No need to spend hours scrolling through reviews - we've got you covered! We looked at things like top-notch ratings, price points, and that special factor that makes each gift stand out. Now you can rest assured that your present will be a total hit.
500 Piece Large Format Jigsaw Puzzle
Why it's on the list:
Ravensburger Cozy Retreat 500 Piece Large Format Jigsaw Puzzle for Adults
Note: These are larger pieces
Puzzles can be a wonderful activity to calm the mind. Sometimes people with ADHD feel like they always have a million tabs open in their brains, and having a peaceful moment or hour doing a puzzle can be relaxing.
And This Cozy Retreat 500 Piece Large Format Jigsaw Puzzle is a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a relaxing puzzle experience.
The image on this puzzle is printed using high-quality inks that won't fade over time, so they can enjoy their puzzle for years to come.
The Best Part: The pieces are perfectly cut fitting together beautifully which will eliminate frustration
From Reviews:
Pros:
- Each piece fits exactly together to "snap"
- The puzzle is very relaxing and enjoyable
- I loved it so much I ordered another as a gift
Cons:
- Missing 4 pieces
- It would have been better if it included a poster to see the picture
- The images weren't crisp
Organizing Solutions
Why it's on the list:
This book is a valuable resource for anyone who struggles with disorganization issues
It provides practical solutions to help people manage their time and tasks, stay organized at home and on the go, and keep their homes green and clutter-free.
The author of this book has extensive experience working with individuals living with ADD, and it's written in an easy-to-understand format.
It's full of helpful tips, tricks, and techniques that can be applied immediately to improve organizational skills.
The Best Part: this book is that it doesn't focus solely on how to organize your physical space; it also offers helpful strategies for managing technology and staying green and eco-friendly.
From Reviews:
Pros:
- A very useful book with a lot of good tips
- This book changed my life
- I wish I had this book 15 years ago
Cons:
- Too many words to explain a simple message
- Not written in an ADHD-friendly manner- hard for ADHD brain to digest this format
- A little outdated to mention a phone book on my desk
Fidget Cube Toy
Why it's on the list:
The Infinity Cube Fidget Toy is a great option for those who are looking for a simple and budget-friendly fidget cube toy.
This toy is made of plastic, so it's not the most durable option out there, but it is very lightweight making it easy to hold and carry around places.
The simplicity means that there aren't too many options when it comes to using it - however, we found that the shape itself was really effective at helping us focus on whatever we were doing without having any bad habits take over our fingers from just constantly tapping them together.
The Best Part: The shape for easy maneuverability
From Reviews:
Pros:
- Can't put it down
- Great value, bright colors, and well made
- I love it more than I thought I would, it's very calming
Cons:
- It's noisy and I'm worried it will break
- It didn't last long
- Smaller than expected
Adulting Note Pad
Why it's on the list:
People who have trouble focusing lose track of time and things they were supposed to get done. This notepad is a great way to help them stay on task.
This notepad features 60 sheets, making it the perfect size for keeping track of everything from "Tasks" to "People I Can Reluctantly Call."
The pages are lined, so the writing can be neat for easier reading back later.
The book also comes with a pen attached, so they can start writing right away without having to stop and go look for a pen.
The paper is even water resistant-not sure why maybe in case you spill a drink on it?
The Best Part: People I need to reluctantly call haha
From Reviews:
Pros:
- A great notepad without getting overwhelmed
- A great gift for a new "adult"
- The best planner for my ADHD- not really a planner technically
Cons:
- I wish it had more variety
- Would be better if it had a magnet
- I like it but it's too small
ONO Roller Sapphire
Why it's on the list:
It's a different spin on a fidget device. The ONO Roller Sapphire is a handheld fidget toy that offers a unique sensory experience. The aluminum body has been textured with small grooves, which provide an interesting tactile sensation when held in the hand.
Hang on a sec while I go out and get one for myself.
The roller itself is smooth and allows for easy rotation of the fingers without any resistance.
The sleek design makes it easy to hold and manipulate, while its compact size makes it ideal for on-the-go use.
It's the perfect way to keep hands busy while not distracting everyone around like a typical fidget spinner.
The Best Part: Since it's a different type of sensory input it can actually help improve focus
From Reviews:
Pros:
- Can't go wrong with an Ono Roller
- Perfect for the office when you don't want to make noise
- Your ADHD friend will love it as a gift
Cons:
- Arrived broken
- After a few minutes in my hand it was so slippery from sweat and grease
- A bit expensive
Homedics SoundSleep White Noise Sound Machine
Why it's on the list:
Getting to sleep when you have ADHD can be difficult.
Bedtime seems to be a time when all of those pesky thoughts of a million little things you need to do invade your brain.
A way to tune out all that noise is a sound machine and the Homedics Sound Machine is a great choice for anyone looking for a simple and affordable sound machine.
It has six different sounds including white noise and ocean, and the auto-off timer makes it ideal for falling asleep but not being disturbed during the night
The battery life of this sound machine is also impressive at around 40 hours per charge which should be more than enough time for most users.
The Best Part: It's compact enough to take with on vacation without needing an outlet
From Reviews:
Pros:
- Highly recommend it to anyone needing a restful night's sleep
- Has helped with my tinnitus that keeps me from sleeping
- I loved it so much that I bought another one for my zen den
Cons:
- The on/Off and volume buttons are all on one control
- These are great but they break, I just keep getting another one
- Too many water options which I don't like
The Gifts of Imperfection: 10th Anniversary Edition:
Why it's on the list:
What a perfect gift to give someone who may oftentimes feel "less than" for their struggles.
The book "The Gifts of Imperfection" by Brené Brown is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the importance of embracing our flaws and finding fulfillment in our lives.
The Canadian social scientist and TED speaker has spent years studying why people are so caught up in striving to be perfect all the time. The reason, she says, is that we crave connection and feel empty if we're not getting it.
But there's a catch: We can't just stop striving forever, because that would leave us feeling disconnected from others. Instead, we need to find a balance between being ourselves and connecting with others.
The Best Part: 10th Anniversary Edition, new forward and brand new tools
From Reviews
Pros:
- This book has helped me in so many ways and has become my go-to for stressful times
- This book has changed my life
- The most significant book I've read in 10 years
Cons:
- A watered-down version of Daring Greatly-
- I don't enjoy her writing style, it doesn't flow
- I didn't like the ugly language usage like "sucks" and "oh man"
Adult Coloring Book
Why it’s on the list:
Coloring mandalas as a form of therapy. It's become super popular these days because it's a great way to find some inner peace and escape the craziness of everyday life.
This isn't your average coloring book either - it's specifically designed for adults who need a little extra TLC. The intricate shapes and detailed designs will transport them into a world of peace and tranquility.
Plus, with 50 different mandalas to choose from, they'll have so many options.
The Best Part: 3D Effects
From Reviews:
Pros:
- Nice enough for framing
- The first coloring book that didn't disappoint me
- Gel pens didn't bleed through
Cons:
- Too many small lines hard to stay inside
- The size is awkward for a coloring book
- I liked the designs but they were all printed off center
Neuro-Spicy Mug
Why it's on the list:
Neuro-Spicy is a fun and positive way to "label" ADHD or other neuro-divergent people.
It has a beautiful definition and accentuates the gift of imperfection.
In full disclosure: I designed this mug and love it so much I decided to have an add on to this article. The only review is from me and I say it's imperfectly the best gift on the list! Ha-ha
Gifts For Adhd Adults FAQs
It can be tough to know where to start your search for the perfect present for an adult who has this condition.
Not only do you want to find a gift that is thoughtful and useful, but you don't want to waste your time and money on something they won't like.
What Is Different About People With ADHD?
People with ADHD usually have differences in their brains that affect how they process information and regulate their emotions. So, while all people with ADHD share certain symptoms, the severity can be quite different from one person to another.
The following are some of the main ways that people with ADHD differ from others: They have a deficiency in executive function (see below for more details). This means that they often struggle with organization and time management; self-regulation; problem-solving; starting tasks; switching between tasks; and focusing on tasks that are boring or difficult. Their memory may also be impaired relative to others, particularly when it comes to learning new information versus recalling what they already know (this ties in closely with their difficulty maintaining focus). They often find it hard to tune out background noise and other distractions around them – whether it's a room full of chatty coworkers or a loud street full of honking cars – unless they expend extra focus on shutting such things out.
What Are Some Good Ways To Manage ADHD?
Managing ADHD can be a challenge but there are plenty of useful ways to
Here are some ways to cope with the disorder:
- Schedule carefully. It's important not just to schedule appointments in advance but also to block out time afterward so you can follow through on what you've agreed upon.
- Set alarms on your phone or have a productivity timer if necessary so you don't forget.
- Keep lists. People with ADHD often have trouble remembering things – even simple errands like picking up milk and eggs at the store become overwhelming tasks.
- Do some meal-planning for simple recipes maybe using an Instant Pot for less mess.
- Make lists and check off items as they're done throughout your day whenever possible so you don't get overwhelmed by trying to remember everything at once in a moment of crisis or confusion.
- Get a good night's sleep which helps to reduce stress
How Common Is Adult Adhd?
Adult ADHD is thought to affect around 2.5% of the adult population or roughly 1 in 40 people, although many cases go undiagnosed and there may be significant underdiagnosis in women.
According to a study published in JAMA Psychiatry, the incidence of ADHD was similar across racial/ethnic groups but men were more likely to be diagnosed than women. Another study published in 2017 found that only about 42% of those with ADHD had ever been diagnosed, highlighting how many people are living with undiagnosed disorders.
How Is An ADHD Diagnosis Made?
According to the CDC, there is no single test that can diagnose ADHD. Rather, a doctor will make a diagnosis based on your medical history and symptoms, as well as results from psychological tests and other exams. There are certain criteria "from The DSM-5" showing a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development:
Are Jigsaw Puzzles A Good Gift For An Adult With Adhd?
There are many reasons why someone with ADHD might have trouble completing a jigsaw puzzle. They may get bored quickly, lose interest in the subject matter, or simply find it difficult to focus and follow instructions. But that doesn't mean they won't enjoy completing a puzzle!
Something about the process of putting together all the pieces seems to work for people with ADHD, so long as you choose puzzles carefully. Puzzles with fewer pieces are easier to complete, but will likely take longer if you're dealing with an especially hard subject matter or complicated image. That can be frustrating for those with ADHD who struggle to maintain focus for long periods of time. A good starting point is medium-sized puzzles that require an hour or two of focused attention at most.
Conclusion
The best gifts for adults with ADHD can be practical gifts that make their lives easier, help them to take care of their mental health, and provide support and encouragement along the way.
There are more gift ideas for ADHD adults, that we didn't review this time, like weighted blankets if they have anxiety, or a tile if they lose things a lot, but the gifts in this blog offer a nice mix of ADHD gifts.
Thank you for reading and
Happy Shopping!
Stacy-ADHD Adult