Some examples include humming, pacing, teeth grinding, and rocking, though there are many others.
The reasons for stimming can vary depending on the person and environment.
If someone feels like their stimming is harmful, medication, self-control techniques, and environmental changes may help.
Verywell / Michela Buttignol
Some people with ADHD may overeat as a way of stimulating the brain.
Poor impulse control can also manifest as impulsive eating.
Fidgeting vs. Stimming
Many people engage in self-stimulatory behaviors from time to time.
These can be similar to or even the same as some stimming behaviors seen with ADHD.
In neurotypical people, these behaviors are often simply referred to as fidgeting.
Stimming is a universal behavior that can occur in anyone.
It is not exclusive to ADHD or any other medical condition.
Stimming exists on a continuum.
Some people may stim, while others may not.
Some may stim occasionally and others may stim excessively.
People with ADHD may stim to help improve focus and impulse control.
The stims themselves may be different, too.
Not all stimming behaviors require management.
Experts discussing stimming behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder have said this punishment technique doesn’t work.
Cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT) goes further in helping a person develop self-awareness.
The goal is to accept your thoughts and feelings to improve focus and concentration.
Family-based therapycan also help by offering parents or spouses a better understanding of why their loved one stims.
Additional forms of therapymay also be helpful as a part of the largerADHD symptom managementplan.
Professional-moderated ADHD support groups can also be beneficial.
Alternative Techniques
In situations where stimming may be disruptive, trying alternative self-regulation techniques may be helpful.
For example, deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or fidgeting tools may be effective substitutes for stimming behaviors.
Lifestyle Changes
A healthy lifestyle may help reduce ADHD symptoms and the need for stimming.
Improving these skills may help reduce ADHD symptoms and the need for stimming.
Certain workplace strategies may help adults manage stimming behaviors.
Ask your employer about accommodations like moving to a quieter workspace, work-from-home options, or using noise-canceling headphones.
What Are IEP or 504 Plans?
Summary
ADHD stimming is self-stimulating behavior.
It may be done to self-soothe or to increase focus and attention.
Stimming is beneficial for many people and only becomes concerning if it interferes with everyday functioning or is unsafe.
Attention Deficit Disorder Association.ADHD stimming: why it happens and how to cope.
National Institute of Mental Health.Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder overview.
Kapp SK, Steward R, Crane L, et al.
‘People should be allowed to do what they like’: Autistic adults' views and experiences of stimming.
Drake Institute of Neurophysical Medicine.What is ADHD stimming?
The Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia Research Center.Stimming: What is it and does it matter?
And how does it relate to child development?
