Stimming and ADHD: When Movement Brings Calm

For many people with ADHD or other neurodivergent experiences, movement isn’t just restlessness, it’s regulation. The tapping, fidgeting, humming, or pacing that others might see as distraction can actually help the brain focus or release excess energy. This is called stimming, short for self-stimulatory behavior.

What Is Stimming?

Stimming is any repetitive sound or movement that helps someone stay focused and comfortable. For someone with ADHD, it might look like shaking a leg during a meeting, clicking a pen, or humming quietly while working.

While everyone stims to some extent, think of twirling your hair or biting your lip. People with ADHD often rely on these more intentionally. Stimming helps the brain regulate dopamine levels, manage emotions, and create a rhythm that supports focus.

Why People Stim

Stimming isn’t random or meaningless. It’s a way the body says that it needs this to stay balanced. Several factors can make stimming more noticeable or necessary:

• Energy Regulation: Movement helps release excess energy that builds up when sitting still
• Emotion Regulation: Fidgeting, pacing, or humming can calm anxiety or excitement
• Focus Support: Repetitive motions give the brain stimulation to stay engaged
• Comfort: Stimming can help filter overwhelming sights, sounds, or sensations

What It Looks Like in Everyday Life

To others, stimming can look like a distraction. However, it is the opposite. Examples include:

• Tapping fingers or bouncing a leg
• Doodling or playing with textures during conversations
• Fidgeting with objects like stress balls or jewelry
• Replaying music or sounds that help calm the mind
• Rocking, pacing, or stretching when overstimulated or stressed

What Can Help

Stimming doesn’t need to be “fixed.” Instead, it can be supported and understood. A few ways to create a more stim-friendly environment include:

• Use fidget tools: Rings, cubes, or textured objects can provide quiet, satisfying sensory input
• Incorporate movement breaks: Short walks or stretches can help reset focus
• Practice body awareness: Notice what kinds of stimming help you feel calm or focused and when you need them most
• Seek acceptance: Surround yourself with people and spaces that honor how you self-regulate

How ShareWell Supports

At ShareWell, we understand that everyone’s rhythm looks different. Our peer support and body-doubling sessions are safe spaces to bring your whole self, fidgets, movement, and all.

During our Body Doubling Sessions, members work together in quiet focus. There’s no pressure to sit perfectly still or appear composed. Instead, it’s about creating a shared environment where stimming, shifting, and moving are welcome.

At ShareWell, we believe movement isn’t a distraction. It’s communication, regulation, and connection which is a reminder that your body knows how to care for itself, one small motion at a time.

If you wish to try a peer support support, click here to find a group.