For advocacy of ADHD to be effective, the voices of those impacted by the disorder need to be heard. Myths and misinformation have been prominent in the media and in the community at large for too many years, despite abundant medical information backed by research. The misunderstanding and stigma surrounding ADHD continues to impact families affected by ADHD, causing stress, confusion, under diagnosis and under treatment. This continuing stigma has resulted in most families remaining quiet about the significant impact of ADHD on their lives.
When their constituents remain silent on the issues surrounding ADHD, politicians and decision makers see no need to make any changes or even consider the impact of ADHD. When they are informed about existing needs though advocacy work they are uninterested because they think their constituents are uninterested.
If you have an interest in ADHD, CADDAC and other Canadian ADHD support organizations need your help! Advocacy efforts cannot succeed unless the voices of those like you are heard – we need all those with an interest in ADHD: parents, grandparents, adults with ADHD, extended family members, educators and medical professionals to do at least one thing to add their voice to the effort.
Help make ADHD an election issue on June 2!
Let’s ensure that political party platforms include individuals and families living with ADHD to improve access to assessment, diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment as well as educational and workplace accommodations.
For more information about how you can help advocate, please access our comprehensive Advocacy Toolkit for more information
Download PDFWriting a letter to your MP, MPP, MLA or MNA, Minister or editor of a local newspaper expressing your interest in ADHD, your concerns, and your requests is hugely helpful in ADHD advocacy efforts. When meeting with government representatives we are frequently told that they do not hear from their constituents on this topic and are therefore not overly interested in becoming involved.
ADHD Speaks is a long-term awareness campaign encouraging people to speak out about their ADHD by sending in a video, audio, written or visual piece sharing their experiences with ADHD.
Launched in 2018, the campaign aims to bring general awareness of ADHD to the public, medical professionals, government officials, educators, those suffering from ADHD and their families. The campaign aims to increase awareness and understanding of the impact ADHD has on those living with the condition, their families, and society as a whole.
CADDAC is asking people of all ages, including kids, to join the discussion and share their experiences, by text, audio or video. Tell us ONE thing you wish people knew about ADHD (yes pick just one) and submit it to us or share it on social media and tag us!
Make a SubmissionCelebrate Pride with us! Are you someone living with ADHD who identifies as part of the LGBTQ2S+ community? We would love to hear your story & perspective!
Make a Pride Submission
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CADDAC is always looking for volunteers. If you are passionate and want to help make a difference in the ADHD community in Canada please fill out the volunteer form below and a staff member will be in touch with you within 3 business days.
Volunteer Form