ADHD Awareness Month
Breaking the stigma around ADHD
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that makes it difficult to focus, control impulses, and be still. Many people have misconceptions about ADHD and how it impacts people’s lives.The symptoms of ADHD can be categorized into 2 types of behavioural problems:- Inattentiveness (difficulty concentrating and focusing)
- Hyperactivity and impulsiveness
Many people with ADHD have problems that fall into both these categories, but this is not always the case. For example, around 2 to 3 in 10 people with the condition have problems with concentrating and focusing, but not with hyperactivity or impulsiveness. This form of ADHD is also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD).While ADHD can present challenges, it does not define a person. With the right support, understanding, and coping strategies, people with ADHD can thrive and achieve their full potential.
Ways to support someone with ADHD:
- Adjust your behaviour accordingly
- Praise the positives
- Communicate and listen
- Ask if they need help before you offer it
- Don’t make assumptions about the person’s intelligence or capabilities
- Respect the person’s time and space.
- Being understanding and patient is so very important.
- Offer choices, not commands. But don’t rush them to decide.
- Educate yourself
- Practical support without patronising
ADHD symptoms can include:
- Trouble concentrating or performing complicated or detailed tasks
- An inability to focus while others are talking to them
- Poor organizational skills
- Frequently losing their possessions
- General forgetfulness
- Restlessness and fidgeting
- Speaking very fast and too loudly
- Impatience
- A tendency to interrupt
- Constant mind-changing
- Irritability
