Many people with ADHD wonder if they have a "bad" memory. I think “bad” is an unhelpful way to describe memory and “uneven” would be more accurate. Adults, teens and kids with ADHD often struggle with working memory. You may process memory differently than neurotypical brains–sometimes recalling extremely specific information from ten years ago and sometimes struggling to remember what you had for dinner yesterday. Your memory can work idiosyncratically and sometimes less effectively than you might desire. It’s really important to understand that having working memory challenges, along with processing speed issues, can be a natural part of living with ADHD and other executive functioning skill challenges. So, instead of labeling your memory as "good" or "bad", let’s understand how it works and what strategies can help you strengthen your working memory and adapt to its frustrations.
Let’s look at how memory works in general. There are three types of memory:
It’s generally believed that short-term memory is super quick: it stores information briefly, just long enough to use the retained information and then quickly forget it (like a temporary verification code).
Working memory allows us to hold on to chunks of information long enough to process and take action on them. Working memory allows us to manipulate information without losing track of other tasks we’re performing. It is related to short-term memory, but it lasts slightly longer. It’s how we draw on past experiences to apply ideas and solutions to current or future situations. Without it, people wouldn’t recall things from even a few moments ago. Working memory allows us to retain someone’s name throughout a conversation or follow a set of directions.
Long-term memory involves the storage and recall of information over a long period of time (days, weeks, years). Your childhood memories, favorite songs, and faces of loved ones are all processed through and held in long-term memory.
Interestingly, working memory is linked to emotional........