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Certainly, without technology, most students would be unable to attend school right now. That said, digital learning is useful for many students who have issues with a traditional school setting.

The Good and Bad Aspects of Digital Learning

On the positive side, parents reported their remote learners using digital tools to become more organized, to turn in assignments more regularly, and to review materials more effectively. On the negative side, the temptation to click away from Zoom or Google Classroom to YouTube or Among Us is high and persistent. Many students with ADHD and learning disabilities benefit from the one-on-one instruction that is in short supply and sorely missed right now. And Zoom fatigue is real.

More universally positive, for both children and adults with ADHD, is telehealth. Six times more parents called telemedicine helpful than called it harmful, and 56% of adults said technology has aided them in accessing medical care or addressing health concerns during the pandemic. Though some children, especially young ones, refuse to engage with counselors or therapists on video platforms, many parents say they plan to continue using telehealth services even after the pandemic.

Though some adults with ADHD complain of similarly ‘cursory’ telehealth appointments, most sing the praises of telemedicine, as well as online support groups, therapy sessions over Zoom, and seamless medication refills. In 2020, teletherapy and telehealth were new to 60% of survey respondents who are using it now.

Screen Addiction Concerns

Even more foreign before the pandemic were digital platforms for video calls and work meetings like Zoom. After overcoming the tech learning curve, many say technology has helped them achieve greater productivity, organization, and collaboration.

The biggest downsides to working from home with ADHD? Digital distractions, video exhaustion, and burnout.

Leisure is the domain where technology was rated most useful by both adults and caregivers. More than 79% of adults praised streaming, gaming, and audiobook platforms for keeping them entertained and occupied at home.

These time sucks are a ubiquitous concern, and risk, for adults with ADHD who complain of doom scrolling their nights away. Many people voice concerns over becoming addicted to TV, video games, and/or social media while in quarantine.

Technology is a Poor Motivator, But a Good Connector

Shame, regret, and frustration all reared their ugly heads for adults with ADHD using (or trying to use) technology for fitness as well. Though many felt they should have more time to exercise without commutes and errands, only 27% said technology actually aided their fitness. Though fitness apps are convenient and relatively inexpensive, they fail to deliver the accountability and social outlet of an in-person gym or recreation league. Motivation takes a hit as a result.

Though most people look forward to attending live yoga and Zumba classes after the pandemic, one technology habit will persist with enthusiasm: online shopping. Three-quarters of readers called grocery apps, Amazon, Target.com, and other digital shopping tools useful during the pandemic; for 40% of them, this technology was new.

And no one is complaining about fewer errands, less driving, or an end to frivolous purchases. In this way, technology is creating efficiencies and cost savings that many adults with ADHD say they may not have otherwise realized. Though this may be the most practical benefit of technology during the pandemic, it is not the most impactful or the most important. That is summed up beautifully by one mother from Virginia who answered our survey:

Neurofeedback Therapy for ADHD

Here at Neurohealth Associates, we specialize in Neurofeedback treatments. Neurofeedback may be helpful if you have problems with issues stemming from ADHD. The easy, noninvasive treatment can painlessly improve your mental health condition and outlook on life.

Schedule a consultation with NeuroHealth today and find out how we can help you.