ADHD Awareness – Understanding, Acceptance and Support
October is ADHD Awareness Month and is celebrated here in the UK and all around the world. It is a time dedicated to increasing understanding, acceptance, and support for individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is an opportunity to foster greater understanding and acceptance of ADHD. By raising awareness, breaking down stigma, and highlighting available support, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone affected by ADHD. Let’s work together to make a difference this October and beyond.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects children of all genders although it’s more common for boys to be diagnosed. This is often because the symptoms that girls exhibit tend to be more inattentive and can sadly be overlooked. ADHD is lifelong however; strategies can be learned to overcome symptoms and treatments like medications and talking therapies can help to manage daily life. ADHD is often misunderstood and misrepresented, leading to stigma and challenges in accessing appropriate support and treatment and some girls and women won’t be diagnosed until adulthood.
The importance of ADHD Awareness Month
ADHD Awareness Month aims to:
Raise Awareness: Educate the public about ADHD, its symptoms, and its impact on individuals and families.
Break Down Stigma: Challenge misconceptions and reduce the stigma associated with ADHD.
Highlight Support: Showcase the resources and support available to individuals with ADHD and their families.
Celebrate Neurodiversity: Recognise and celebrate the unique strengths and talents of people with ADHD.
ADHD Awareness Month
How to get involved
Educate Yourself and Others – learn about ADHD and share accurate information with your community.
Support ADHD Organisations – donate to or volunteer with organisations that provide resources and support for individuals with ADHD.
Advocate for Change – support policies and initiatives that improve access to diagnosis, treatment, and support services for people with ADHD.
Celebrate Neurodiversity – recognise and appreciate the diverse talents and perspectives that individuals with ADHD bring to our communities. For more information and resources, visit ADHD Aware, ADHD UK and ADHD Foundation.
There are a number of useful books to help educate yourself and others about ADHD including ‘Unmasked: The Ultimate guide to ADHD, autism and neurodivergence’ by Ellie Middleton and ‘ADHD is our Superpower’ by Soli Lazarus
ADHD and Assistive Technology
One of the biggest challenges facing students with ADHD before they even begin to learn is a lack of executive functioning skills that can really have an effect on their daily lives. It is common for people with ADHD to feel like they constantly let down the people they love, and this can impact their mental health enormously. So, this ADHD awareness month choose kindness and make sure they know you love them exactly the way they are.
What is Executive functioning? Executive functioning involves cognitive processes that help us plan, focus, remember instructions, and manage multiple tasks. Key components include but are not limited to:
Working Memory: Holding and manipulating information.
Cognitive Flexibility: Adapting to new situations and shifting focus.
Inhibitory Control: Resisting impulses and distractions.
Thank you for your kindness
How assistive technology can help with executive function
Alarm Watches: Watches can be set to vibrate or sound alarms at specific times. They provide discreet reminders for tasks or appointments, helping young people stay on schedule and manage time effectively and independently.
Digital Reminders: Apps or devices that send notifications for tasks, events, or deadlines. They help with organising daily activities and ensuring important tasks are not forgotten.
Visual Timers: Timers that visually represent the passage of time, often with a disappearing-coloured disc. They provide a clear, visual cue of how much time is left, which can be easier to understand and manage for those with executive dysfunction.
Digital Prompts: Automated prompts or reminders on digital devices. These can guide individuals through tasks step-by-step, reducing the cognitive load and helping to maintain focus and organisation.
Focus Functions on Digital Devices: Features like “Do Not Disturb” or focus modes that limit distractions. They help create a distraction-free environment, allowing individuals to concentrate better on tasks and manage their time more effectively.
These tools can be incredibly helpful in managing the challenges associated with executive dysfunction by providing structure, reminders, and reducing distractions.
Blog author: Carly Adkinson, CENMAC Advisory Teacher.
Pomodoro Kitty – This useful website allows you to set the amount of time you would like to complete a task and then how long you would like to have a break between tasks.
