What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodivergent condition, which is to say that the brain functions differently. The brain difference fosters regular patterns that are incompatible with many current social expectations, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. In fact, ADHD is an acronym for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.
ADHD currently has three “types,” which characterize what a person may struggle with:
- Primarily inattentive: Paying attention, sustaining focus, information processing, and organizing.
- Primarily hyperactive/impulsive: Fidgeting, restlessness, patience, and sitting still.
- Combined: Symptoms of both of the above.
Typically, people with ADHD are diagnosed in childhood or when they have their own children, since the patterns of behavior are more apparent at these junctures. However, ADHD may be diagnosed at any stage of life.
Referring to People with ADHD
Person-first and identity-first language are both used by folks with ADHD. Person-first language looks like person with ADHD. Identity-first looks like ADHDer. It’s best to ask someone which they prefer rather than assuming.
ADHD currently includes several type presentations since it has been combined with ADD for diagnostic purposes. It is not appropriate to ask someone which presentation they have unless you know them particularly well.
Creating an Accessible Environment for an ADHDer
Encourage Participation Across Formats
With STARFLEET, the International Star Trek Fan Association, Inc., the focus is often on in-person meetings with local chapters. If someone can’t make it in person, they just miss that meeting. However, we have the technology to hybridize meetings on most smartphones.
For an ADHDer, the option to participate in the meeting from the comfort of their own space encourages participation. There are fewer distractions, and this type of meeting can often also be reviewed at a later time, depending on how its done, when someone might be better focused.
Structure Meeting to Have Breaks
Most meetings are all about getting the information out there so a fun activity or socializing can start. This approach, in addition to being hard to absorb for many people, also means having to pay attention for an extended period of time.
The solution is to structure the meeting with breaks. These breaks can be simple ten-minute bio breaks or they can be opportunities to integrate more movement through games for the whole crew. However, having these breaks helps everyone focus.
Include the Positives
STARFLEET, the International Star Trek Fan Association, Inc. is run entirely by volunteers. At times, that means we review our volunteer’s work, make suggestions, hold meetings with them, and talk to them about the posts they’ve taken.
Many people with ADHD develop a sense that their work must be perfect. This focus on perfectionism makes criticism exceptionally hard-hitting. It’s important to lead with the strengths when having these discussions and ensure there are positives to it.
Allow for Fidgeting and Sensory Control
People with ADHD often use fidget toys or traditional crafts like knitting to address their need to move. Similarly, they may use noise cancelling headphones or specific glasses to manage the environment around them. All of these things should be welcome at our meetings.
For the most part, ADHDers know that their fidgeting and sensory controls may distract others and place themselves appropriately. However, it may be appropriate to bring up if there is an ongoing issue.
Provide Clear, Written Direction
When someone agrees to do something, even if they are not ADHD, providing a quick note or list of what they agreed to can save a lot of hassle. For someone with ADHD, written instructions or reminders are often vital to ensuring something actually happens.
Feel like this guide is missing something? Let us know at sfcoa@sfi.org.
Want to know more about accessible communication? Check out Accessible Communication 101.