It was hardly surprising that the Economist article published a couple of weeks ago, “ADHD Should Not Be Treated as a Disorder – Adapting Schools and Workplaces for It Can Help Far More,” sparked a passionate online debate with responses split between two camps. The first position argues that ‘Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder’ or ADHD is a misnomer, viewing its traits as a natural cognitive variation that brings valuable strengths and along with increased understanding calls for adapting environments to ensure that individuals thrive. Adaptations could include more flexible working hours, seating arrangements, learning plans and tailored assistance. The second position firmly considers ADHD to be a mental “disorder,” given the need for medication, therapy, and formal support. But as ADHD diagnoses continue to surge—particularly among women and girls—with so many people affected, a more inclusive, nuanced, and empathetic approach to ADHD is urgently required.

There is no doubt that without proper understanding and support, ADHD can be profoundly disabling in many current school and work environments. ADHD traits like impulsivity, distraction, and inability to prioritise can strain relationships, diminish self-esteem, and increase the likelihood of developing anxiety and depression. For those with more severe ADHD, interventions such as medication, therapy, and or coaching are not only helpful but essential to maintaining jobs, relationships, and a positive sense of identity. Failing to recognise the range of daily challenges faced by many risks dismissing the experiences of those for whom ADHD is profoundly disabling.

However, labeling a condition as common as ADHD as being a psychiatric ‘disorder’ creates unnecessary fear, reinforces stigma, and fosters misconceptions. For adults diagnosed later in life, it can be validating to discover that the struggles they face are due to a medical problem rather than a character flaw. At the same time, taking on a new identity that society judges as being both a ‘deficit’ and a ‘disorder’ can be more challenging than the condition itself. Sadly the stigma surrounding the use of medication can deter many from the use of treatment that could make life significantly easier.

ADHD is a paradox in many ways, but cognitive flexibility can help us here. Opposing perspectives can be valid, especially when adopting a ‘both/and’ mindset. After all, both positions reflect lived realities shaped by context, experience, and perspective. We know that more flexible, inclusive environments—whether it be a classroom where students have the freedom to stand or move as they work, or workplaces that help employees actively reduce work and sensory overload can alleviate many of the everyday challenges that individuals with ADHD face. For example, evidence shows everyone benefits when schools and workplaces consciously build systems supporting diverse cognitive needs. And traits common among those with ADHD, including hyperfocus, creativity, big-picture thinking, and attention to detail, are priceless assets for businesses and organizations who want to succeed in uncertain times. Embracing ADHD strengths doesn’t have to rule out the need for medical support, we must evolve our understanding of neurodiversity if we want to foster innovation and progress.

If we shift our understanding of ADHD from being a ‘mental disorder’ to a ‘common condition’ with significant challenges that ten percent or more of us currently face, we open space for empathy, understanding, respect, and dignity. ADHD is much more than a ‘deficit’ or ‘disorder’; it’s a complex human experience that defies easy categorization. When we embrace ADHD both as a strength and a struggle we can create a more inclusive society. To do this, we must let go of polarized and judgemental ‘either/or’ perspectives. Recognizing that some individuals do need support to reach their full potential will create a society that not only benefits significantly from their value but respects human dignity.

As we continue to increase our understanding of neuroscience, let’s take the opportunity to dismantle harmful stigma and discrimination as we have in all other areas of human diversity and expression. Integrating paradoxes helps us navigate conflict, complexity, and uncertainty with empathy and critical thinking. It allows us to move beyond polarized “us vs. them” narratives, opening dialogue and collaboration across important differences.

When we accept the coexistence of opposing ideas, we can offer more inclusive solutions to complex challenges—and better balance the needs of individuals and society. When we tolerate ambiguity, we can engage more constructively in an increasingly unpredictable and polarised world to find common ground and make collective progress. After all, different ways of thinking are vital for unlocking the full range of human creativity, innovation, resilience, and growth the world so desperately needs—especially if humanity is to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Only then can we fully harness the full range of talents, insights, possibilities, and potential that each one of us brings.