ADHD Awareness Month

What is the month about?

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.

The month is a time to reflect on what ADHD is, how it affects people, and celebrate neurodiversity in general.

When does the month take place?

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 shared experiences that the ADHD community face. It’s a chance to meet new people and learn new things.

Why was this event created?

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 the 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 

Facts you should 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.
• The ADHD Awareness Month colour is orange.

How to celebrate in the workplace

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

• 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.

You can also organise ADHD inclusion training

Training is a brilliant way to develop your team’s understanding of ADHD and neurodivergent people’s experiences in the workplace. Complete the form below to enquire about inclusion training and a friendly member of our team will get back to you to discuss how we can support your inclusion goals.