Raising awareness of ADHD this October

Updated: Oct 21

The words 'ADHD Awareness Month' with an orange ribbon an orange head silhouette, inside the head are three blue cogs.

October is designated as ADHD Awareness Month, providing an important opportunity to raise awareness and educate ourselves and others about neurodevelopmental disorders. Misconceptions about ADHD often lead to unfair and damaging labels and stigmatisation. Examples of this can include behavioural issues being perceived as a result of poor parenting, or the idea that children ‘grow out’ of ADHD, to name a few. Through raising awareness this October and beyond we can work together to develop a better understanding and break down stigmas and misinformation that persist.

Our Managing Director, Graeme Scott recently shared his thoughts - ‘As we move into ADHD Awareness Month, it gives us an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come. We know more about ADHD than ever before and many more are coming forward for diagnosis and support. There is still more to do.’

ADHD: an overview

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder which is estimated to affect 2.6 million people in the UK according to research by ADHD UK. It is often characterised by restlessness, difficulties concentrating, and acting impulsively.

ADHD has three presentations:

Inattentive presentation - Individuals main challenge is paying attention for long periods of time or staying focused on tasks.
Hyperactive-Impulsive presentation - Individuals tend to struggle with sitting still, are overactive, and may need constant stimulation.
Combined presentation - Some individuals may show symptoms of both the inattentive and hyperactivity-impulsive categories.

Symptoms of ADHD can vary for each individual; notably there are often differences in how men and women present. Below are just some of the common signs of ADHD.

Inattentive:

Having a short attention span and being easily distracted
Making careless mistakes
Appearing forgetful or losing things
Being unable to stick to tasks that are tedious or time-consuming
Appearing to be unable to listen to or carry out instructions
Constantly changing activity or task
Having difficulty organising tasks

Hyperactive and impulsive:

Being unable to sit still, especially in calm or quiet surroundings
Constantly fidgeting
Being unable to concentrate on tasks
Excessive physical movement
Excessive talking
Being unable to wait their turn
Acting without thinking
Interrupting conversations
Little or no sense of danger

ADHD can also affect executive functioning skills; the processes in our brains that assist us in planning and organising. Executive function plays a crucial role in controlling our attention, impulses, and emotions to maintain focus on tasks. These skills also aid in retrieving information from our memory, organising it, and enabling us to effectively monitor and manage our time.

ADHD: embracing its strengths

People with ADHD face challenges, but they also have so many unique and amazing qualities. Studies have revealed that individuals with ADHD tend to be more creative and excel at thinking outside the box. This thinking style fosters innovation and problem-solving abilities.

Another notable strength is their capacity to hyperfocus on their interests. This intense focus can significantly enhance productivity, engagement, and task efficiency, proving beneficial in completing assignments, projects, and hobbies.

People with ADHD are often skilled conversationalists and perceived as talkative. Research indicates that individuals with ADHD exhibit higher levels of social intelligence, humour, emotional recognition, and empathy.

The Hyperactive-Impulsive presentation of ADHD is characterised by high levels of energy, which can translate to excelling in sports. Some of the most successful athletes, such as Simon Biles (gymnast), Noah Lyles (track and field sprinter), and Michael Phelps (swimmer) have ADHD. These individuals have demonstrated that ADHD does not have to be a barrier to achieving greatness and success throughout life.

ADHD: 6 steps for offering support

Educate yourself about ADHD to gain an understanding of the condition and how it may affect the individual.
Maintain open and honest communication to create a supportive environment for the person with ADHD.
Listen to the struggles that the person may be experiencing with acceptance and empathy, avoiding judgmental attitudes. ADHD can make simple tasks seem intimidating, so it's important to show understanding.
Focus on the individual's strengths to help build self-confidence and self-esteem.
Help the individual maintain a routine, as people with ADHD often struggle with this. Doing so can help alleviate anxiety.
Celebrate achievements big or small, to reinforce positive behaviours and boost confidence. Offer words of encouragement and support during challenging tasks, emphasising effort and persistence.

Beyond ADHD Awareness Month

It is important to continue raising awareness and championing inclusivity beyond ADHD Awareness Month. An estimated 79% of people with ADHD in the UK are undiagnosed. It is therefore essential to continue to educate ourselves and others, break down barriers, and ensure support is accessible.

Graeme Scott, Managing Director, emphasises that 'RTN continues to champion diagnosis and make it as accessible as possible to ensure more people get access to provision, care and a stronger sense of self.'