A Norfolk County advocate is working to change how people understand ADHD and its link to mental health.
Aaron Bailey, who created the community initiative ADHD Folk, says there are still many misconceptions about the condition. He explains ADHD is not simply about behaviour, but a brain-based challenge.
He adds that ADHD affects focus, impulse control and how someone process the world around us.
Because of those challenges, Bailey says people with ADHD often face repeated negative feedback growing up, which can shape how they see themselves.
Bailey points to research suggesting children with ADHD hear significantly more negative messages than their peers, something he says can have lasting impacts.
He also notes ADHD can look different in girls and women, who are often underdiagnosed and may internalize their struggles.
Bailey says understanding the root cause of symptoms is key, especially for those diagnosed later in life.
Bailey explains that people with ADHD often have positive intentions, but when things don’t go as planned, they can fixate on negative outcomes and link them to past failures.
Bailey, who also lives with anxiety and depression, says awareness is the first step to breaking the cycle. He often journals about positive moments so he can look back and remind himself of his successes and progress.
He hopes conversations like this will help reduce stigma and encourage people to seek the right support.
Written by Jeremy Hall
