As we wrap up Black History Month 2025, I reflected on some of the experiences of Black folks in North America who have ADHD. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is seen in between 5-7% of children and 4-6% of adults – of all races and ethnicities.
In the same way that the meme Black 365 denotes that as people of colour, we are who we are every day of the year (not just in February), ADHD is also a 365 state. Differences in executive functioning (self-regulation, working memory, attentional control), emotional regulation and challenges in switching tasks can show up at home, at work and at school.
There is a significant disparity in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in the Black community. In both Canada and the U.S., Black children are less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than their White friends, despite experiencing similar symptoms. Research shows that in Black children, ADHD symptoms (including those of creativity, hyperfocus, enthusiasm and high energy) can tend to be interpreted by teachers as behavioural issues, not neurological ones, and are more likely to be dealt with through detentions, suspensions and expulsions.
There are many contributing factors that lead to the underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis of ADHD in the Black community. While recent studies indicate cultural factors, a lack of trust in the healthcare system, limited access to appropriate and timely healthcare and a White-normed healthcare system play a large role, more research is needed to understand the fuller picture.
The underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis of ADHD in the Black community can have significant consequences. Children with ADHD who do not receive proper diagnosis and treatment are at risk of experiencing academic failure, social isolation, and other negative outcomes. Without appropriate treatment, ADHD can lead to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. Current research suggests that ADHD can shorten life expectancy by about 8.5 years.
Black History Month is about recognizing and celebrating the societal contributions of people who belong to the Black community. It’s also a time to reflect on how we can build a society that does not accept social and healthcare inequity as a zero-sum inevitability and where being Black and having a neurodivergent brain does not make you aggressive, troublesome, dangerous or lazy. Both within our Black diaspora families and in the broader society, under- and misdiagnoses and ADHD stigma cost us as a society- in lost contributions, lives cut short, and unrealized human potential.
Being Black and having ADHD is just one more way to be human, and being human should not come with a stigma.
If you or someone you know has ADHD and is looking for support and information, please check out CADDAC’s website for evidence-based, primarily Canadian resources.
Where did I get my information? References listed below:
ADHD Reduces Life Expectancy by 7 to 9 Years: New Study
Centre for ADHD Awareness, Canada
Leadership & ADHD Coaching | Keynotes | Workshops 