What is ADHD Awareness Month?
ADHD Awareness Month is observed every October and is an opportunity to educate, increase understanding and raise awareness about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This month also aims to reduce stigma, de-bunk common myths, and support those living with the condition.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts a person’s behaviour. This may make the person seem restless, have trouble concentrating or act on an impulse.
ADHD falls under 2 brackets:
- Inattentiveness, this is where the person has trouble concentrating and focusing on tasks and activities
- Hyperactivity and impulsiveness
Symptoms of ADHD
- Inattention: Difficulty focusing or staying on task, often leading to forgetfulness and losing things, becoming easily distracted, and having trouble following instructions or completing tasks.
- Hyperactivity: Restlessness, fidgeting, difficulty sitting still for extended periods, and talking excessively.
- Impulsivity: Interrupting others during conversations, struggling to wait for a turn, and making hasty decisions without considering consequences.
While challenges exist, ADHD also brings unique strengths, such as creativity, energy, and innovative thinking.
Getting a Diagnosis
An ADHD diagnosis must be made by a specialist psychiatrist, and there are two main options available: going through NHS services or opting for a private ADHD clinic.
If you are registered with a GP surgery in England and your GP agrees that a referral to a consultant or specialist in mental health is needed, you have the legal right to choose the organisation (qualified provider) to whom you are referred.
What can you do during ADHD Awareness Month?
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about ADHD from reputable sources, and share information to challenge myths and stereotypes.
- Share Stories: Highlight experiences of people with ADHD to foster understanding and empathy.
- Advocate for Accessibility: Encourage schools, workplaces, and communities to implement ADHD-friendly policies and accommodations.
- Participate in Events: Join webinars, workshops, or social media campaigns using hashtags like #ADHDAwarenessMonth.
- Support ADHD Organisations: Donate or volunteer with organisations dedicated to ADHD research, support, and advocacy.
Support at Showcase Training
At Showcase Training, we understand that our learners will have a wide range of differing learning and development needs. Your tutor, along with our SEND team, will work together with you to ensure that your learning is tailored to meet these needs.
We have resources and support signposting for students with the following learning needs and many more:
- Dyslexia
- Dyscalculia
- ADHD and ADD
- Autism
- Aspergers
- Tourette’s
- Communication difficulties
- Anxiety
- Medical conditions
- Any other condition that is not listed.
Visit our SEND page on the website to learn more about ADHD and other learning needs: https://showcasetraining.co.uk/special-educational-needs-and-disabilities-send-support/
You can also explore our dedicated SEND feature in the magazine here: https://showcasetraining.co.uk/showcase-magazine/