ADHD Awareness Month

What is ADHD Awareness Month?

ADHD, which stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodivergent condition that affects both children and adults worldwide.

ADHD is a lifelong condition that is often stereotypically associated with hyperactivity, lack of focus and ‘disruptive behaviour’ particularly in school. However, people with ADHD are also creative problem solvers, capable of deep focus on tasks that interest them and bring innovation to their work.

It is ADHD Awareness Month in October, which is a time to reflect on what ADHD is, how it affects people, and celebrate neurodiversity in general.

When is ADHD Awareness Month?

ADHD Awareness Month is observed in October each year.

Because the month allows people to come together and talk about ADHD, their experiences, and their challenges, it’s a fantastic opportunity to understand the commonalities that the ADHD community faces. It’s a chance to meet new people and learn new things.

Why is there an ADHD Awareness Month?

ADHD is a type of neurodiversity that affects every aspect of life, and many people don’t realise they have it until they’re much older. Women and people of colour are thought to be underdiagnosed due to misconceptions about what ADHD ‘looks like’ and who it affects.

The month serves as a time to celebrate the difference found in neurodiversity while also advocating for new perspectives and better support systems.

From our expert:

“Originally starting as an awareness day established in 2004 by the US Senate, ADHD Awareness Month has grown globally to a full month of raising awareness and educating which takes place annually during October.

ADHD is thought to affect up to 7.2% of children under 18 years old, and up to 4% of adults globally (CHADD, 2022). The aim of ADHD Awareness Month is to educate people and to disseminate reliable information about the realities of ADHD to combat the wealth of misinformation that hinders the community.

Workplaces can get involved by seeking training and material to educate themselves on ADHD, supporting ADHD colleagues and celebrating the contributions that ADHD individuals can bring to the workplace.”

Inclusion and Diversity Consultant 

ADHD Awareness Month facts you should know

Here are a few quick ADHD Awareness Month facts to know:

• Many celebrities, including Zooey Deschanel, Simone Biles, Adam Levine, Howie Mandel, and Emma Watson, are advocating for and discussing ADHD.
• You can share your story and lived experience with others here
• There is an opportunity to submit artwork that reflects your ADHD experience.
• The ADHD Awareness Month colour is orange.

How to celebrate ADHD Awareness Month in the workplace

There are numerous ways to commemorate ADHD Awareness Month at work, including:

• Organising or attending ADHD training and webinars
• Learning from neurodivergent people
• Explore ADHD resources to provide the best possible support
• Consider a strengths-based approach to developing your staff: what do they love doing? What are they great at? How can you build that into their role? This will benefit all your staff, not just those with ADHD
• Dispel some myths about ADHD
• Show support by wearing the ADHD Awareness Month ribbon.

If you’re a member and need more support with celebrating ADHD Awareness Month, contact your account manager. If you’re not yet a member, get in touch today to see how we can help.