ADHD Awareness

Tiffany Snow-Forrester

Oct 1

1 min read

October is ADHD Awareness Month, so let's get into it!

What is ADHD?

The acronym stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

It is a developmental disorder, usually noticeable during childhood, but it may go unnoticed for children who present with more inattentiveness as opposed to those who present with hyperactivity.

Implications

- Understanding ADHD helps us foster environments and systems that support neurodiverse brains.

- Support may be available through family physicians, counsellors, psychologists, disability and academic programs, ADHD specialists, and loving friends and family.

- Cultural misunderstandings and stigma can limit access to supportable care. We must, therefore, educate ourselves about the symptoms, presentations, and impacts of ADHD to reduce stigma and shame in our communities.

My Experience

Growing up as a high achiever, my symptoms went unnoticed until later on in my adult years, when I became more intuitive and noticed persistent challenges in keeping up with the demands of adulthood.

I wish I had known sooner so that I could have been more compassionate towards myself.

My oblivion fostered self-criticism and frustration, but I know this experience isn't unique to me. Thankfully, I now have the opportunity to support folks like myself (BIPOC + neurodiverse) through psychoeducation, empowerment, and collaboration in establishing systems that promote executive functioning.