ADHD Organizations and Resources

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is often diagnosed in children of elementary school age. However, many people aren't formally diagnosed until they're older, largely because symptoms are mistaken for other issues—such as disciplinary problems—or are completely overlooked. 

Children and adults with ADHD often struggle with focus, completing tasks, and remaining organized. They may get bored easily, become easily distracted by what's going on around them, misplace belongings, find it difficult to follow instructions, and may exhibit impulsive behaviors such as interrupting others or making abrupt decisions.

Nonprofit ADHD Organizations

Here is a list of nonprofit organizations that advocate for people with ADHD and educate others about the condition.

Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)

Founded in 1987, CHADD is one of the earliest nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping children, adults, and parents navigate ADHD. The organization offers evidence-based information on the topic, facilitates support groups, and advocates for those with ADHD. 

Their mission is to foster a world that recognizes people with ADHD and celebrates their strengths. In addition to providing valuable educational resources for adults, parents, teens, kids, and educators, they also offer a range of resources, including videos, online communities, and local CHADD chapters.

The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)

ADDA is a global nonprofit organization that was created by and for adults with ADHD. It’s a resource for those who were diagnosed with ADHD as children and are now navigating the adult world.

ADHD-Related Online Resources

If you're looking for some online options, below are a few ADHD resources that you can access right online.

ADDitude Magazine 

With the tagline, "Inside the ADHD mind,” ADDitude is a digital magazine that's focused exclusively on ADHD. It covers current events and breaks down new data and information related to ADHD, and provides helpful lifestyle content on topics such as testing, school, behavior, health and nutrition, organization, and more. 

Understood

Understood is dedicated to helping people who learn and think differently—including those with ADHD and dyslexia—find success and care wherever they're at in their journey.

It not only acknowledges the difficulties people with learning and thinking differences must overcome to succeed but also takes an individualized approach to helping each person overcome those difficulties so they can thrive. 

ADHD Support Groups 

Support groups are great resources if you're looking to meet other people who also know what it's like to live with ADHD. If you are looking for a great ADHD support group, either online or local, the following options might interest you.

ADDA 

ADDA has a network of niche virtual support groups ranging from peer support for ADD/ADHD young adults to parental support groups to support networks for queer women and non-binary people with ADHD. 

CHADD

CHADD’s website allows you to search by state in order to find a nearby ADHD support group, and also provides a professional directory so that you can get in touch with someone from your location who can help put you in contact with other local groups.

Social Media Resources

If you're a fan of using social media, there are some helpful resources available that you can follow.

ADDitude Magazine Online Forums 

ADDitude Magazine’s online forums are dedicated specifically to discussions around living with and navigating ADHD.

Though it’s not as active as some online forums, the conversation is focused and you’ll find conversation threads on topics such as medication side effects, figuring out social situations, and working with counselors.

Facebook Groups 

Facebook is home to many different groups for and by people with ADHD. These are spaces where you can connect with others, offer or share advice, and discuss the various nuances of life with ADHD.

Some of the more active groups include: 

• ADDitude — ADHD Support Group
• I Love Someone With ADHD
• ADHD Memes
• ADHD Diagnosed in Adulthood
• ADHD Parents of ADHD Kids
• ADHD Meds Question & Support Group
  

Reddit ADHD Community  

With over 1.5 million subscribers, Reddit's ADHD community is highly active. It describes itself as an "inclusive, disability-oriented peer support group for people with ADHD with an emphasis on science-backed information."

ADHD Books

For those that enjoy a good book, you might be interested in reading some books about ADHD. Below is a list that you may find helpful.

Thriving with Adult ADHD: Skills to Strengthen Executive Functioning

Written by Phil Boissiere, MFT, "Thriving with Adult ADHD" discusses executive function and its relationship to ADHD, offers advice for managing symptoms in everyday life, and provides self-assessments so you can identify their strengths and weaknesses.

What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew: Working Together to Empower Kids for Success in School and Life

Sharon Saline, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist and leading expert on ADHD. Leveraging her three decades of experience, "What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew" offers an effective roadmap that helps children with ADHD thrive in school and into adulthood. 

Your Brain’s Not Broken: Strategies for Navigating Your Emotions and Life with ADHD

In "Your Brain's Not Broken," Tamara Rosier, PhD, explores how ADHD affects every facet of life. She helps readers understand why they think, feel, and act the way they do and provides a toolset for improving their relationships and lives. Dr. Rosier is a member of the ADDitude Medical Advisory Panel and the founder of the ADHD Center of West Michigan. 

ADHD Podcasts

Podcasts are an excellent option if you find that you're often on the go. Check out some ADHD podcasts below.

ADDitude ADHD Experts

ADHD Experts is run by ADDitude Magazine and covers a broad range of topics led by ADHD experts. Some recent episodes tackle how ADHD traits fluctuate over the lifespan, back-to-school tips for students with ADHD, and workplace strategies for professionals with ADHD.

Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast

Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast is hosted by ADHD coach Nikki Kinzer and Pete Wright, a podcaster diagnosed with ADHD. Each episode dives into a new topic related to ADHD, often with an expert joining in. Subjects discussed include advocacy, parenting, communication, emotions, and productivity.

Parenting ADHD

Hosted by ADHD expert Penny Williams, each episode of Parenting ADHD discusses parenting strategies and ADHD management tips that will help you parent and help your child thrive. 

CHADD ADHD 365 and All Things ADHD

CHADD has two podcasts: ADHD 365 and All Things ADHD. ADHD 365 offers expert advice, and strategies for families, adults, educators, and professionals.

Takeaways

Even in the last decade, our understanding of ADHD and awareness around this neurodevelopmental condition has grown immensely. Today, there are numerous resources and organizations that can help you and those you love find support. Explore some of these ADHD organizations, resources, and other tools to find more information and discover what works best for you.