Amazon launches new guide designed to support people living with ADHD

Amazon has teamed up with Sam Thompson and the ADHD Foundation to launch a new guide designed to support people living with ADHD. The guide focuses on executive functioning difficulties, such as leaving the house, staying on time, managing deadlines, and staying organised.

Developed with the ADHD Foundation, the guide details how Alexa can help with everyday challenges that may feel overwhelming. Features like lists, reminders, sticky notes, shopping lists, and focus time can help users manage their day more smoothly. The guide also explains how to set up personalised Alexa routines to suit individual needs and schedules.

To highlight the impact of ADHD on daily life, Amazon has created a film called Leaving the House with ADHD, starring Sam Thompson. Sam, who has spoken openly about his ADHD, shares his experience of struggling to leave the house and how Alexa helps him.

In the film, Sam says, “Alexa, help me leave the house,” which activates his morning routine on his Echo Show 15 device. Once triggered, his routine includes:

• A 15-minute timer to keep him on track.
• Reminders of important tasks.
• A motivational message: “Looking good, Sam!”
• Turning off the lights before he leaves.

This structured approach reduces distractions and helps Sam stay focused, making his mornings less stressful.

How Alexa Can Help with ADHD

The guide outlines six key ways Alexa can support people with ADHD:

1. Time Management & Deadlines Struggle with timekeeping? Use Alexa’s calendar to organise tasks and activities visually. Set timers to stay on schedule and reminders to help you leave on time.
2. Avoiding Lost Items Frequently misplacing things? Alexa’s list function lets you create a checklist of essential items. You can set reminders to check your list before heading out.
3. Improving Focus Easily distracted? Alexa’s focus time routine plays calming music for a set period, helping you stay on task.
4. Managing Emotions Feeling overwhelmed? Use Sleep Sounds to play ambient sounds that promote relaxation and block out distractions.
5. Remembering Important Tasks Forgetful? Use Alexa’s list function for daily priorities and add items to your shopping list as you think of them. You can check them on your phone later.
6. Following a Logical Routine Struggle with sequencing tasks? Set up a personalised Alexa routine with step-by-step actions to guide you through your day.

Luke Newman, founder of For Men To Talk, supports the initiative, saying: “For people with ADHD, simple daily tasks can be overwhelming. Having tools like Alexa to create routines, set reminders, and help with organisation can make a real difference.”

Technology can be a powerful support system, making life easier for those with ADHD. This new guide shows how Alexa’s features can offer practical help, improving daily routines and reducing stress.

To explore the full guide and see Sam’s film, visit https://www.aboutamazon.co.uk/alexa-adhd-sam-thompson