We all have a basic need to feel seen, and recognizing ourselves in the stories we read (and watch) can be a powerful way to accomplish this. For people with ADHD, it can make a world of difference to see yourself in the characters you love, especially when those characters are protagonists. Speaking personally, I have spent a lot of time over my life feeling like I’ve failed over lost keys, missed assignments, broken valuables, and other such flubs. When I could see myself reflected in a protagonist I loved, brought to life with both similar challenges and heroic qualities that proved necessary to save the day, it helped me see myself in a better light, too. But ADHD representation is not only for people with ADHD. We could all benefit from a better understanding of ADHD symptoms and how they can manifests — as well as a better understanding of the strengths that can come with it! Personally, my history is littered with moments of friction caused by people who insisted I did not have this learning disorder I had been diagnosed with, based on their poor understanding of what ADHD is and what it should look like. When we understand ADHD better, we can better accommodate weaknesses and make space for talents, too. While there’s more work to be done, representation of ADHD in fiction has come a long way! Here are five incredible fictional characters with ADHD, and four characters who aren’t diagnosed in cannon, but definitely have the symptoms.
5 Characters With ADHD
4 Characters With ADHD Symptoms
When ADHD gets representation in fictional characters, it’s good for everyone. Those of us with ADHD get the validation of being seen — as well as the relief of seeing they, too, can be a protagonist in their lives! Neurotypical readers gain understanding of the ways ADHD can manifest in wildly different ways, and break beyond stereotypes to see the value in how other types of brains work. Due to a clutch scene, it’s even prompted some readers to seek their own diagnoses. Hibbert herself is neurodiverse, and the insights of her experiences with autism are also evident on the page, as well as insights from ADHD friends. With more representation, we can build better understanding so that we can celebrate the gifts that come with ADHD not only during ADHD Awareness Month, but all year round. Picking up one of these books is a great place to start.
