ADHD In The Family Tree: Understanding the Roots
A National Campaign
The Society for ADHD is launching “ADHD in the Family Tree: Understanding the Roots”, highlighting the hereditary nature of ADHD and the importance of awareness within families. This goal of this campaign is to help reduce stigma and foster conversations about ADHD in families; Promote early diagnosis and management; Provide resources and tools for families; Highlight equity in ADHD diagnosis and support; and strengthen community connections.
The "ADHD in the Family Tree: Understanding the Roots" Campaign will improve understanding of ADHD; Lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis; Create an environment for better support of multi-generational families; Reduce stigma around ADHD; Empower communities with actionable tools and resources; Advance equity in ADHD awareness; Increase national dialogue on ADHD by addressing ADHD’s hereditary nature encouraging greater societal acceptance, better policy advocacy, and more widespread support for those affected.
The Society for ADHD has launched a national campaign “ADHD in the Family Tree: Understanding the Roots”, highlighting the hereditary nature of ADHD and the importance of awareness within families. This goal of this campaign is to help reduce stigma and foster conversations about ADHD in families; Promote early diagnosis and management; Provide resources and tools for families; Highlight equity in ADHD diagnosis and support; and strengthen community connections.
It is our hope that The "ADHD in the Family Tree: Understanding the Roots" Campaign will improve understanding of ADHD; Lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis; Create an environment for better support of multi-generational families; Reduce stigma around ADHD; Empower communities with actionable tools and resources; Advance equity in ADHD awareness; Increase national dialogue on ADHD by addressing ADHD’s hereditary nature encouraging greater societal acceptance, better policy advocacy, and more widespread support for those affected.
ADHD in the Family Tree: Understanding Its Genetic Roots
One of the most striking patterns we see with ADHD is how often a single diagnosis within a family becomes a catalyst for others to recognize the signs in themselves or their loved ones. It’s not uncommon for a child’s diagnosis to lead parents to notice similar symptoms in their own lives. Similarly, when an adult—like an uncle or cousin—is diagnosed, it can prompt relatives to seek answers for struggles they’ve quietly managed for years. This shared journey highlights an important truth: ADHD often runs in families.
What ADHD Is (and What It’s Not)
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is not a learning disability, a personality flaw, or a family curse. It is a neurological condition rooted in the brain’s frontal lobe, which affects executive functioning—the ability to organize, plan, regulate emotions, and maintain focus. ADHD is genetic, meaning that its traits can be passed from one generation to the next, much like eye color or height.
Comorbidities: The Hidden Layers
ADHD rarely stands alone. It is often accompanied by “comorbidities”—other conditions that occur alongside it, such as anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, mood disorders, or autism. These additional challenges can sometimes mask ADHD, causing the comorbid condition to be diagnosed first. Understanding the interconnectedness of these issues can help families better address the full scope of their experiences.
Why This Matters for Diverse Communities
In many communities—particularly those that have historically faced barriers to healthcare—recognizing and addressing ADHD can feel overwhelming or even stigmatizing. But knowing that ADHD is a genetic condition can be empowering. It reframes the conversation from blame or shame to understanding and support. Families can begin to see ADHD not as a personal failing, but as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and thrive with the right tools and resources.
Encouraging Action
If ADHD is suspected in your family, take the next step. Knowledge is power, and a diagnosis can unlock access to strategies, therapies, and resources that benefit individuals and their families. With education and support, families affected by ADHD can embrace their strengths, navigate challenges, and build a thriving legacy of resilience.
ADHD runs in families—but so can understanding, compassion, and a commitment to thriving together.
Join the ADHD & Neurodiversity Collaborative, to participate in some fun, informative and engaging activities around this national campaign!