National ADHD Awareness Month

National ADHD Awareness Month is an annual observance dedicated to educating the public about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), reducing stigma, and providing support to individuals and families affected by ADHD. This month-long campaign aims to disseminate reliable information based on scientific evidence and peer-reviewed research.

Quick Facts

When is it?: October
Tagged as: Mental Health Awareness
What’s the hashtag?: #ADHDAwarenessMonth
When was it founded?: 2004
Who founded it?: A coalition of ADHD organizations

History of National ADHD Awareness Month

The concept of a dedicated month for ADHD awareness emerged in the early 2000s as recognition of ADHD as a significant public health concern grew. What began as a single day of awareness has evolved into a month-long campaign to educate and support those affected by ADHD.

Timeline

2004: ADHD Awareness Day established on September 7th
2008: U.S. Senate passes resolution recognizing September 18th as National ADHD Awareness Day
2014: October designated as ADHD Awareness Month

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	October 1	Wednesday
2026	October 1	Thursday
2027	October 1	Friday
2028	October 1	Sunday
2029	October 1	Monday
2030	October 1	Tuesday

Observed

National ADHD Awareness Month is observed through various educational initiatives, events, and campaigns organized by mental health organizations, schools, and community groups across the United States and internationally.

Fun Facts About ADHD

ADHD affects approximately 8.4% of children and 2.5% of adults in the United States.
Boys are diagnosed with ADHD two to three times more often than girls.
ADHD has been referenced in medical textbooks since 1775.

Quiz

ADHD is only found in children. (True/False)
ADHD is caused by bad parenting. (True/False)
People with ADHD can never concentrate. (True/False)

(Answers: 1. False, 2. False, 3. False)

FAQs

Q: Is ADHD overdiagnosed?
A: The rates of ADHD diagnosis vary primarily due to diagnostic criteria and measurement methods used, rather than overdiagnosis.

Q: Do people grow out of ADHD?
A: Significant symptoms and impairments persist in 50-86% of people with ADHD into adulthood.

Importance of National ADHD Awareness Month

This observance is crucial for raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging early intervention for ADHD. It provides an opportunity for education, support, and advocacy, helping individuals with ADHD and their families find guidance and resources to manage the condition effectively.