Let’s be real. Parenting, running a business, and trying to remember if I’ve actually eaten today are challenging tasks. Sometimes I wonder if I’ve just reheated my coffee 5 times. It is already a full-time mental load. Add in ADHD and dyslexia. Consider the general chaos of life. You’ve basically got a recipe for overwhelm with a side of executive dysfunction.
At first glance, ChatGPT seemed like another tech fad when I first discovered it back in 2023. I didn’t expect that it would become such a huge support system in my life. A friend from the PTA mentioned it. I was struggling to write a constitution for a CIC I was starting. I gave it a go and… game changer.
At first, it was little things, like asking it “what should I make for tea tonight?” and getting actual, helpful ideas. I didn’t have to stand crying into the fridge. Decision fatigue is real. But then I had this thought, wait… what else can it do?
My ADHD Brain, ChatGPT, and a Team That Kinda Works
If you’re neurodivergent, you’ll get this. My day starts with overwhelm. Like, before I’ve even sat up properly. What needs doing? What have I forgotten? Can I shower before the school run? Do the kids have clean socks? Is there petrol in the car? What’s for dinner? And somewhere in that pile is also me trying to stay calm, regulate emotions, and parent intentionally.
ChatGPT doesn’t solve all of that, but it does help me break it down.
- I use it to brain dump everything that’s swirling in my head. It helps me get it into a list.
- I ask it to help me. It helps me prioritise tasks when I don’t know what to do first.
- I get it to write a meal plan that works for four kids and two adults. Then, I get it to break that into a shopping list. No more mental gymnastics trying to figure out what we’ve got in.
- I use it to translate school emails into actual grown-up professional writing. I know what I want to say, but my ADHD and dyslexia don’t always make that easy.
- I use it to structure important documents, like EHCP applications. That was a moment that really made me realise how much this tool helps me feel more capable.
It’s Not a Replacement, It’s a Tool
I still want things to sound like me, so I never just ask it to write stuff out of nowhere. I use it like a co-writer. I’ll say, “Act like my ADHD coach. Here’s what I’m struggling with. Help me break it down.” Or, “Can you turn this brain dump into a professional email?” I keep my voice in it. Chat helps me shape it. This makes it easier for people to understand what I’m trying to say.
That’s been huge for me as a blogger too. Sometimes I just need help getting started, a few prompts, some feedback, someone to bounce ideas off without feeling judged. Chat gives me that. It doesn’t care how many times I ask the same thing in different ways.
Emotional Support? Weirdly… Yes
I actually suggested ChatGPT to a mum on the school run the other day. She was feeling really overwhelmed, and I told her she can use it for journaling. Ask it for journal prompts, write out your thoughts, and then even ask it to show things back to you. It’s like therapy-lite when you’re not ready to talk to an actual person, or just don’t have time.
I use it to help with emotional regulation and decision fatigue. It gives me clarity when my brain is foggy. I don’t rely on it, but it’s become part of my mental health toolbox. Not a replacement for people, but definitely a support while you wait on a never-ending NHS list.
What Be Better?
Honestly, I just wish it would stop randomly switching to Welsh. No idea why that happens. And yes, it’s American-based. Sometimes I have to tweak spelling or phrasing. Nevertheless, that’s a small trade-off for the amount of help it gives.
It’s not perfect. It’s not a therapist or a best friend. It is a flipping brilliant admin assistant, coach, and idea-bouncer. It has helped me feel more in control of my life, both personally and professionally.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an ADHD mum trying to juggle parenting, a small business, and staying hydrated, ChatGPT can help. If you’re feeling stuck and unsure where to start, it can be the nudge you need. It’s not cheating. It’s a tool, like a hammer for a builder or a notebook for a teacher.
We don’t need to do everything the hard way just to prove we’re capable. Using tools like this helps everyone. It is particularly beneficial for those of us whose brains are wired a little differently.
I’d love to hear from you,
Have you tried using ChatGPT to support your ADHD or neurodivergent life? Whether it’s helping with the school run chaos, organising your business brain, or just figuring out what’s for tea, I want to know how it’s working for you. Also, let me know if you’re still a bit unsure.
Drop a comment. Share this post with a fellow ADHD mum who needs a little extra support. You can also message me on Instagram. I love chatting about this stuff. Together, we can learn how to make life just a little bit easier.
Let’s be done with doing it all the hard way. Use the tools, take the shortcuts, you’re still doing an amazing job.
The Messy Mum Virtual Assistant 