By Tatiana Zaituni – 

A recent tweet by Rachel Idowu sparked an alarming conversation on X (formerly Twitter) about how often parents conceal ADHD diagnoses from their children – a practice more common than many realise.

People’s parents not telling them about their diagnosis is more common than people think and it’s not just with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)”.

ADHD often presents itself in childhood but extends into adulthood.

This conversation highlights the persistent stigma surrounding ADHD and other neurodiverse conditions, leading to significant health disparities for those left undiagnosed or misdiagnosed

Of course, the social stigma around these diagnoses in earlier years is apparent, however, the past cannot be repeated. Children deserve to know what their struggles are, that way, they are better equipped with tools.

Many who suffer from misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or underdiagnosed symptoms of ADHD will experience health inequalities later on. Although the story of Rachel Idowu was concerning, it does not come as a shock as a neurodivergent diagnosis is stigmatised across many background groups.

This online dialogue not only reveals personal stories of hidden diagnoses but also reflects a broader societal issue: the stigma surrounding ADHD, particularly in diverse cultural backgrounds.

This influences how the condition is understood, diagnosed, and treated. In some cultures, mental health conditions, including ADHD, are heavily stigmatised, leading to a reluctance to acknowledge or address these issues head-on.

In some progressive cultures, ADHD is more widely recognised and discussed, with a growing acceptance of neurodiverse conditions. However, even within these cultures, there can be a stigma attached to the diagnosis, particularly concerning misconceptions that ADHD is simply a lack of discipline or poor parenting.

In other cultures, there is often a strong emphasis on obedience and respect for authority. Behaviours associated with ADHD, such as impulsivity and inattention, may be interpreted as deliberate misbehaviour rather than symptoms of a medical condition. This can lead to a reluctance to seek a diagnosis or treatment, as admitting to having ADHD might be seen as a failure of upbringing or character.

In another, where academic achievement and social harmony are highly valued, ADHD symptoms might be overlooked or misunderstood. There can be significant pressure on children to conform to societal expectations, leading to a tendency to dismiss ADHD as a phase or to avoid seeking a diagnosis due to the fear of bringing shame to the family.

Many cultural beliefs about mental health stem from traditional views that prioritise physical health over mental well-being. In some cultures, mental health conditions are not seen as legitimate medical issues, but rather as personal or moral failings. This contributes to the stigma surrounding ADHD, where it might be dismissed as laziness, a lack of discipline, or even a sign of spiritual or moral deficiency.

In communities where mental health education is limited, there is often a lack of awareness about ADHD as a neurodevelopmental disorder. The NHS describes ADHD as having trouble concentrating and may act on impulse. However, without understanding that ADHD is a medical condition with biological underpinnings, people may attribute symptoms to poor character or inadequate parenting, further perpetuating stigma.

Which leads to other reasons for undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, and underdiagnosis of the condition. A user on x expressed, “My dad at the ripe age of 45 after joining and retiring the military with two adult children learned that he has dyslexia and adhd”, He continues “Grandma found it no use to tell him when he was a kid.” Says Anthony.

Another User Luke_Warme said “my parents got me tested and then didn’t tell me the results because they “wanted me to live a normal life” that is NOT how it works”

Cultural background and time, cannot be ignored when approaching the sensitive nature of ADHD and its leading cause for stigma.

Like Idowo, many people in West Yorkshire experience similar health disparities medically and within societal settings.

In West Yorkshire and Harrogate, 4% of people are affected by ADHD, roughly around 100000 people across the region, according to Mental Health, Learning Disability and Autism Strategy. This means that individuals experience ADHD in silence and often the symptoms are viewed as challenging behaviours.

However, the impact of this statistic extends beyond mere numbers. The stigma and silence surrounding ADHD, particularly in certain cultural communities, mean that many individuals remain undiagnosed and untreated. This can lead to severe mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, which exacerbate healthcare disparities and strain the region’s health services.

Addressing this issue requires not only awareness and reduced stigma but also improved access to mental health care. Nationally and globally, ADHD remains underdiagnosed, particularly in areas with limited healthcare resources, highlighting a need for more comprehensive support systems.

Living with undiagnosed ADHD often results in a range of mental health issues later in life, such as anxiety, depression, or personality disorders. These conditions not only impair psychosocial functioning but also contribute to long-term health inequalities

As the conversation on X reveals, the stigma around ADHD continues to leave many undiagnosed, particularly in communities where cultural beliefs perpetuate silence. Greater awareness and open dialogue are crucial in ensuring that individuals receive the support and understanding they need.

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