When I was diagnosed with ADHD, I did what any self-respecting ADHDer would do: I went on a hyperfocused research rampage, consuming any and all content and scientific studies I could find. But the more I burrowed into the rabbit hole, the clearer it became: the state of ADHD information on the internet is a hot mess -

 

• Most of the official scientific research on ADHD is exclusive to very narrow demographics.

• Misinformation, outdated statistics, and articles citing the exclusive research dominate Google search results.

• TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels are oversaturated with ADHD sensationalism and videos incorrectly attributing random behaviors and traits to ADHD.

• More often than not, search results consist heavily of content focusing on "children with ADHD," as if ADHD adults don't exist.

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All of this can make it incredibly difficult to find reliable, accurate, and accessible resources. (And even when you do find a reliable resource, it usually has enough complicated jargon to make even the savviest scholar's head spin.) Unfortunately, many people give up on their quest for mental health knowledge before it ever really begins.

 

And what's so wrong with that? Why is it so important to be knowledgeable? Isn't that what doctors are for?

 

Knowledge fuels awareness, empathy, compassion, and understanding. Knowledge can bring change.

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And yes - while it's important to trust your doctor, you should still stay informed so you're equipped to advocate for yourself (or a friend, child, or loved one) if and when the time comes—because, unfortunately, bad doctors still exist:

 

• Psychologists who don't "believe in ADHD" still exist.

• Doctors who think ADHD only affects children still exist.

• Psychiatrists who assume all of their ADHD patients are drug-seeking still exist.

• Pediatricians who think red food dye causes ADHD still exist.

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Not to mention, knowledge is something that can never be taken away from you. (Unless, of course, you're hopelessly forgetful like me... in which case, I recommend sticky notes and journals.) When you learn about mental health and ADHD, you're learning about your brain and how it works. Eventually, you'll have enough knowledge to connect some of the dots and start to understand why you do certain things. Sure, knowledge won't cure you, but it does give you the gift of self-awareness—something we all struggle with from time to time.

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The other component of my mission? Community.​ Navigating a neurotypical society as an ADHD adult can be a lonely journey, but it doesn’t have to be. Finding a community is just as important as staying informed.

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In a world where the neurotypical narrative often dominates, it's easy for those of us with ADHD to feel like we're swimming against the current. But here's the thing – we're not alone. There are others out there who understand the struggles, the triumphs, and everything in between. Through What in the ADHD? I hope to create a supportive space where people can share experiences, ask questions, and find encouragement—a place where you can be understood without masking or having to explain yourself a thousand times.

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The community I'm growing is about finding solidarity in our shared journey and learning from each other's unique perspectives.​ From my informal research surveys that explore different aspects of ADHD to lively discussions and threads on social media where I tackle "taboo" topics related to mental health, we're building more than just a community – we're building a movement.

 

Together, we can redefine norms, challenge misconceptions, and advocate for the understanding, knowledge, and acceptance we deserve.

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Stay weird -

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Sydni