Thinking about building an ADHD app in 2024?
You’re in the right place!
The demand for digital mental health tools is growing fast. And ADHD apps are a big part of that.
For health-tech entrepreneurs and healthcare providers, this is a great chance to make a real impact—and some serious revenue.
But where do you start?
In this guide, we’ll break down the key steps to create an ADHD app that people will love and trust.
Let’s dive in and turn your idea into something amazing!
What Is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
It’s a common condition that affects around 3.3 million kids and teens between 12 and 17 years old.
People with ADHD might find it hard to pay attention, get along with others, or sit still.
Right now, there’s no cure for ADHD.
But there are many ways to help manage it.
Treatments can vary, and finding the right tools can make a big difference.
Mobile apps, for example, can help with organizing tasks, keeping up with routines, and improving focus.
Even if an app isn’t made just for ADHD, it can still be really useful.
The Impact of ADHD: Why It Matters
ADHD is more common than you might think.
About 1 in 25 adults have it, and around 8.4% of kids in the U.S. are diagnosed with it.
But here’s the thing—90% of those affected might not be getting the treatment they need. This can have a huge impact on their lives.
ADHD isn’t just about being easily distracted.
It involves 18 symptoms that fall under inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
These symptoms can make everyday life challenging.
According to The National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R), many adults with ADHD have had these symptoms since childhood, affecting at least two important areas of their life.
This is why creating an ADHD app that can help people manage these challenges is so important.
Top 5 ADHD Apps Available in the Market
1. Todoist
Todoist is a task management app that helps users organize their tasks and prioritize their day.
Features:
- Task Lists: Users can create different lists for work, personal tasks, and other categories.
- Task Prioritization: Users can assign priorities to tasks based on importance and urgency.
- Reminders and Notifications: Users can set reminders and notifications for important tasks.
How It Works:
Users add tasks to their lists and assign priorities to them. Todoist can also suggest tasks based on deadlines and importance. Users can set reminders and notifications to stay on top of their tasks.
Cost:
Free to download; subscription starts at $4.99/month, with annual plans available.
2. Focus@Will
Focus@Will is a music streaming app that offers curated playlists designed to improve focus and productivity.
Features:
- Curated Playlists: The app offers a variety of playlists tailored to different tasks and moods.
- Customizable Settings: Users can customize the tempo, volume, and other settings.
- Ad-Free Listening: Users can enjoy ad-free listening with a premium subscription.
How It Works:
Users can choose a playlist based on their task or mood. The app will play music that is designed to improve focus and reduce distractions. Users can also customize the settings to create their own listening experience.
Cost:
Free to download with a free trial. Subscription starts at $7.49 per month, with yearly and two-year plans available.
3. Focus Keeper
Focus Keeper is a Pomodoro timer app that helps users break down tasks into smaller, manageable chunks.
Features:
- Pomodoro Technique: Users work for a set amount of time (usually 25 minutes), followed by a short break.
- Customizable Timers: Users can customize the length of their work and break intervals.
- Progress Tracking: Users can track their productivity over time.
How It Works:
Users set a timer for a work interval. When the timer goes off, they take a short break. After several work intervals, they take a longer break. This cycle helps users stay focused and avoid burnout.
4. Habitica
Habitica is a gamified habit tracker that helps users develop new habits and break bad ones.
Features:
- Habit Tracking: Users can track their habits and earn points for completing them.
- Goal Setting: Users can set goals and work towards achieving them.
- In-Game Rewards: Users can earn in-game rewards, such as pets and equipment.
How It Works:
Users create habits and tasks. When they complete a habit or task, they earn gold and experience points. They can use these points to purchase items and level up their character. Habitica also offers a social component, allowing users to connect with other users and form teams.
Availability: iOS and Android
5. SimpleMind Pro
SimpleMind Pro is a mind mapping app that helps users visualize their thoughts and ideas.
Features:
- Mind Mapping: Users can create mind maps to organize their thoughts and ideas.
- Templates: The app offers a variety of templates to get started.
- Export Options: Users can export their mind maps to different formats, such as PDF or image.
How It Works:
Users can create a central idea and add branches to represent related thoughts or ideas. They can also add notes and images to their mind maps. SimpleMind Pro can help users visualize their thoughts and ideas in a clear and organized way.
Cost: $29.99
Availability: iOS and Android
Key Features to Build a Standout ADHD App
To make your ADHD app truly stand out, consider including these essential features:
- Customizable Task Management – Allow users to organize tasks, set reminders, and prioritize their to-do lists.
- Focus Tools – Incorporate features like focus timers, Pomodoro techniques, or distraction-blocking tools to help users stay on track.
- Routine Builder – Offer a way for users to create and track daily routines to build consistency and structure.
- Progress Tracking – Enable users to monitor their progress with visual charts and reports on their goals and habits.
- Educational Resources – Provide helpful articles, tips, and strategies tailored to ADHD management.
- Integration with Other Apps – Sync with calendars, note-taking apps, or health apps for a seamless experience.
- User-Friendly Design – Ensure the app is easy to navigate with a clean, intuitive interface.
- Personalization Options – Allow users to customize their experience with adjustable settings and preferences.
How We Developed an ADHD-Friendly Mobile App: A Case Study
Creating an ADHD-friendly app involves understanding and addressing the unique needs of users with ADHD. Here’s a look at how we helped a client design a standout app tailored for ADHD management.
Design Principles
1. Follow the Blue:
To avoid overwhelming users, the app’s design is simple and intuitive.
Each page has a clear purpose, with content and calls to action highlighted in a signature blue gradient. This design guides users seamlessly through the app.
2. No Errors:
Instead of jarring error messages, the app prevents issues by disabling unavailable actions and providing gentle explanations.
It also ensures essential data is pre-loaded, avoiding disruptive errors.
3. Nudges, Not Alarms:
Rather than intrusive notifications, the app uses friendly nudges to remind users of tasks.
These nudges are customizable and use calming sounds, like water splashing, to prompt users without causing stress.
4. Positive Reinforcement:
The app focuses on rewarding effort rather than punishing inaction.
It tracks progress, celebrates milestones with badges, and avoids creating feelings of inadequacy.
5. Shared Experience:
To foster a sense of community, the app includes motivational comments, supportive messaging, and insights about the wider ADHD community.
It aims to reduce stigma and normalize the experience of ADHD.
6. Avoiding the ADHD Tax:
Understanding that not all users may immediately find the app perfect, the client offers free trials and easy cancellation options.
They also send reminders before subscription renewals to avoid unexpected charges.
This approach ensures the app supports users with ADHD effectively while making their experience positive and inclusive.
Top 3 Development Options for Your ADHD App
Ready to build an ADHD app that truly stands out?
Choosing the right development approach is crucial for creating a successful, user-friendly app. Here are some options to consider, each catering to different needs and budgets:
Choosing the right development option depends on your goals, budget, and timeline. Partnering with healthcare IT experts ensures that your ADHD app is designed with the complexities of ADHD management in mind, delivering a valuable tool for users seeking support.
Monetize Your ADHD App: How We Can Guide You to Success
When it comes to monetizing your ADHD app, there are several effective strategies to consider:
- Freemium Model: Offer a basic version of the app for free while charging for premium features. This attracts a larger user base and generates revenue from those seeking extra benefits.
- In-App Purchases: Provide options for users to buy additional content, customization, or virtual goods within the app. This enhances the user experience and creates additional revenue opportunities.
- Subscription Model: Implement a recurring subscription fee for access to premium features or exclusive content. This ensures a steady revenue stream and encourages long-term user engagement.
But these are just a few ways to generate revenue.
As your health tech partner, our team can help you explore many more options.
We’re not just developers; we’re business experts with over 10 years of experience in making brands successful.
Our business analysts can provide valuable insights and strategies to help your ADHD app stand out in the crowded market.
