What Is Executive Function?
Executive Function is an umbrella term that refers to a set of mental skills that help us manage time, pay attention, plan and organize, remember important details, control impulses, and shift between tasks smoothly. These skills are like the brain’s “management system,” allowing us to set goals and take the steps needed to achieve them. For individuals with ADHD—whether children, teens, or adults—executive function challenges are common and can affect daily life in school, work, relationships, and home responsibilities.
In children and teens, weak executive function may show up as trouble starting homework, forgetting assignments, losing things frequently, or struggling to follow multi-step instructions. They might appear disorganized or easily overwhelmed by tasks that require planning or self-control. In adults, executive function issues can lead to chronic lateness, missed deadlines, difficulty prioritizing, and problems maintaining focus in meetings or conversations. These challenges aren’t due to laziness or lack of intelligence—they’re rooted in how the ADHD brain processes and regulates information. With the right strategies, support, and often a combination of behavioral tools and treatment, individuals with ADHD can strengthen their executive functioning and thrive across all stages of life.