Happy “Coming Out” Day

Today is Tuesday, October 11, and ADDA is publishing a special issue of the ADDA Insider. It’s ADHD Awareness Month, so we’ve scheduled an issue each Wednesday through the month, but in celebration of another special day, we’re publishing the ADDA Insider a day early. ADDA embraces diversity, and today we have an article to share from a member of the LGBTQ community.

Every October 11, the LGBTQ community celebrates “Coming Out Day.” Established in 1988, “Coming Out” day recognizes that the most basic form of activism is coming out to family, friends and colleagues, and living life as an openly lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender person. In today’s Intersections article, Keith Griffin, explores the similarities between “coming out” as a gay man and as an adult with ADHD.

Deciding to “come out” is a big decision, and given the stigma often surrounding being LGBTQ, and ADHD, it’s a scary decision as well. I won’t pretend to understand the challenges of coming out as LGBTQ, but I will wholeheartedly support anyone’s decision to refuse to live a life in disguise, pretending to be someone they are not.

ADDA’s recognition of Coming Out Day is not a vote for or against coming out as ADHD. Coming out is a very personal decision that can only come after intense soul searching. Our celebration of Coming Out Day recognizes the enormous courage necessary to live openly as ADHD.

The stigma of ADHD can only thrive in the face of silence and ignorance. Once people realize they have loved ones who are ADHD, they are far less likely to maintain their unfounded beliefs. If you are out about your ADHD, ADDA and the entire ADHD community thanks you.

To your success,

Duane Gordon, President

Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)

P.S. In celebration of ADHD Awareness Month, we’ve just posted an infographic describing what adult ADHD is, its prevalence, how it is diagnosed, and how it appears in adults. Download the infographic and share it with people you’re trying to educate about adult ADHD. Knowing is better!