This October the ADHD Awareness Month theme is ‘moving forward with ADHD’ and it has never been more evident that this is exactly what is happening here in the UK.
Since Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) became a known neurodevelopmental disorder (added to the DSM-5 in 1980 first as ADD, and finally including the ‘H’ in 1987), various myths have been shattered and the body of research related to ADHD – and the support for those who both struggle with and celebrate it as part of their identities – has risen exponentially.
Amongst the shattered myths? That adults – and particularly women – do not experience ADHD. Today, healthcare professionals recognise the very real need for more support and resources to help diagnose and treat both children and adults, including girls and women who often mask their symptoms.
Neurodiversity support for children on the rise
The staggering queues of those awaiting assessment for neurodiverse conditions is often reported across the media. Months or sometimes years of waiting is needed for a diagnosis and support, including Education and Health Care Plans (EHCPs).
The pandemic triggered even longer queues and even lengthier wait times – but no matter how long the wait, the reality is that numbers of children and adults coming away from assessment with a diagnosis is on the rise in the UK. Teachers, SEND coordinators, educational psychologists and others working with children on a daily basis then require access to post-diagnosis support – not only for ADHD itself, but for the comorbidities those with ADHD are more likely to have, including depression and anxiety.
The advent of occupational neuroacceptance
As we have pointed to in recent occupational blog posts spotlighting neurodiverse recruitment and support for adapted workplace arrangements, there has been a movement towards not only accepting, but celebrating and embracing, neurodiversity in the workplace – and the diverse skills and talents those individuals can bring. ADHD in adults in the UK may be as high as 5% or 1 in 20 adults, which means that a great number of UK workers are neurodivergent and looking for adaptable, flexible working spaces and cultures. They are looking to work differently, with more efficiency, and with better supports in place.
See below for Hogrefe’s resources supporting children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, as well as the healthcare professionals and employers that support them.
