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Panel Session

Disability Issues

Neurodivergent Social Workers: Unmasking ADHD and Navigating Neurodivergence in Social Work

This panel seeks to normalize neurodivergence in social work and advocate for systemic changes that support neurodivergent professionals. By breaking the silence around ADHD in social work—especially within communities of color—we aim to foster a more inclusive, understanding, and supportive professional environment for current and future social workers.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
  1. 1. Understand & Identify (Knowledge & Comprehension) ○ Participants will define ADHD within the context of neurodivergence and identify key characteristics that impact social workers' professional and personal lives.
  2. 2. Analyze & Reflect (Analysis & Evaluation) ○ Participants will examine the cultural and systemic barriers that contribute to the underdiagnosis and stigma of ADHD among social workers of color, and how their personal biases and experiences shape their understanding of neurodivergence.
  3. 3. Apply, Adapt & Engage (Application & Synthesis) ○ Participants will explore strategies for navigating professional settings as neurodivergent individuals, including self-advocacy, workplace accommodations, and medication management. Participants will propose ways to foster more inclusive spaces for neurodivergent professionals in social work.