Caddac: ADHD Advocacy

ADHD Advocacy

Since ADHD and Advocacy are both included in our name it would make sense that advocating for individuals with ADHD would be our primary goal. It is; however doing so on an individual basis across Canada is not only impossible, but unproductive when looking at the bigger picture. How can this be, you might ask; helping an individual child obtain the accommodations they require in the school system in order to be successful, or helping an adult on benefits obtain the appropriate medication should be considered the ultimate goal and we agree, however accomplishing this as the system stands is often time consuming and ultimately impossible. For this reason we believe that CADDAC can be most effective in providing information on individual advocacy, while systemically advocating for change on ADHD issues, at the same time.

What is Systemic Advocacy?

Advocating to effect change on a broad level
Advocating for change in a system
Advocating for a cause
Advocating as a united voice

Why Do We Need to Advocate for ADHD?

ADHD outside of the medical arena is not viewed as a legitimate disability
Up-to-date scientific information is not readily available
Misconceptions are readily available
The health and education systems have not kept pace with science
The need for a unified voice, advocating for ADHD

What Do We Need to Advocate for?

The understanding of ADHD as a neurobiological disorder
Increased knowledge and awareness of ADHD in the medical and educational communities
Increased awareness and understanding by the public
A decrease in stigma
The identification of students with ADHD as special needs students
The recognition of a successful outcome if appropriate resources and supports are supplied
The Networking between the disciplines of medicine and education for students
Equal access too appropriate medication
The Provincial Ministries of Education, Health and Community working together to solve problems, create resources and provide support
Networking between all stakeholders

CADDAC's aim is to unite the voices advocating for ADHD across Canada. Please access the Advocacy Campaigns section and add your voice to our advocacy efforts.

We also encourage you to become a member of CADDAC to add you voice to the effort.