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I created a video to explain the Sunflower Lanyard:
The Sunflower Lanyard – I wear this a lot and people ask me "What is that? Did you make that yourself? Are you a member of the Green Party?”
What is the Sunflower Lanyard?
This is actually part of the Hidden Disability Sunflower Scheme and it's a scheme that was started at London Gatwick Airport in 2016 as a way for people who've got less visible disabilities to be able to tell you that that's the case without having to shout it from the rooftops.
So anyone you see who's wearing this green sunflower lanyard, or any other thing that has the sunflower symbol on it – you can get wrist bracelets, you can get passport covers, there are all kinds of things you can get, but the most common one is the sunflower lanyard and it means that someone has a less visible disability.
So that means that there might be times when they need a little bit of extra help or support, or they just need you to be a little bit more understanding and to give a personal example, my son and I both wore these and we get special assistance when we're actually going through Gatwick airport and we do that because sensory processing issues make travelling through an airport really really stressful and that's something that's quite hard to explain. And what we found is we actually get judged by people so much even though we're wearing the lanyards; people just don't really understand what they are.
We get judged because we're not physically disabled – so I can walk and people think therefore that you're absolutely fine to be travelling but that's not always the case.
So wearing the Sunflower Lanyard means people might need a little bit of extra help; not just neurodivergent people, it's for any hidden less visible disabilities and the scheme now has expanded so it's used in thousands of locations across the UK and globally so way beyond airports. Wherever you see a Sunflower Lanyard, that is a sign for hidden disabilities.
Wherever you see a Sunflower Lanyard, that is a sign for hidden disabilities.
This is a topic that I'm passionate about people understanding – I also wrote a blog about it that you can read here.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website provides lots of information and support. Find them here: HD Sunflower Website
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental conditions, affecting both children and adults. It influences various aspects of daily life, including attention, impulse control, and executive function skills. But what exactly is ADHD, and how does it impact those who have it?
ADHD is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. While many people experience occasional difficulties with focus or restlessness, those of us with ADHD face these challenges consistently and at a level that significantly affects our daily lives.
ADHD is not just about being unable to sit still or getting easily distracted. It’s a complex condition that affects the brain’s ability to regulate attention, emotions, and behavior. It is typically diagnosed in childhood, but many adults also live with undiagnosed ADHD, often struggling with work, relationships, and daily responsibilities – I know I did prior to being diagnosed at age 40!
ADHD presents itself in different ways, which is why it is categorised into three types:
People with this type of ADHD primarily struggle with focus, organisation, and following through on tasks. They may:
This type of ADHD is sometimes overlooked because it does not involve hyperactivity, making it more common among individuals who are quiet or daydreamy, particularly girls and women.
This type is marked by excessive energy, restlessness, and impulsive behaviour. People with this form of ADHD might:
Children with this type are often labeled as troublemakers or overly energetic, but their behaviour is not intentional – it is a neurological difference that affects impulse control.
This is the most common form of ADHD, where individuals display both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. They may struggle with focus, organisation, and impulse control simultaneously, leading to challenges in school, work, and social settings.
Executive function skills refer to the cognitive processes that help us plan, prioritise, and complete tasks. ADHD significantly impacts executive function, making it difficult to:
These challenges can lead to frustration and a sense of underachievement, even in individuals with high intelligence and creativity. Many people with ADHD develop coping strategies to compensate, but without proper support, these struggles can persist into adulthood.
While the exact cause of ADHD is not fully understood, research indicates that genetics play a significant role. Other factors that may contribute include:
It’s important to note that ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, excessive screen time, or a lack of discipline. It is a biological condition that requires proper management and support.
ADHD is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
Since ADHD symptoms overlap with other conditions like anxiety and learning disabilities, a professional evaluation is essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
There is no cure for ADHD, but various treatment options help individuals manage their symptoms and thrive. Common approaches include:
Stimulant medications, such as Concerta and Elvanse, are commonly prescribed to help improve focus and impulse control. Non-stimulant medications are also available for those who cannot tolerate stimulants.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help individuals develop coping strategies, improve time management, and reduce impulsive behaviors.
ADHD coaching focuses on building executive function skills, such as organisation, planning, and prioritisation. Many people find structured routines and external accountability helpful.
Find out more about my ADHD Coaching services here.
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practices can also support brain function and help manage ADHD symptoms.
ADHD comes with challenges, but it also brings strengths. Many individuals with ADHD are creative, innovative, and excellent problem solvers. By understanding our unique brain wiring and using appropriate strategies to support our challenges, ADHDers can harness our strengths and flourish.
ADHD UK provides lots of information and support. Find them here: ADHD UK
I run a monthly support group for ADHD UK, with a focus on ADHD and Autistic (AuDHD) adults. Find out more here.
While there are so many books available on ADHD, here are a few of my favourites:
ADHD 2.0, Edward M. Hallowell & John J. Ratey: Buy it here
How to ADHD, Jessica McCabe: Buy it here
The Anti-Planner, Dani Donovan: Buy it here
(I met Jessica and Dani at an ADHD Conference I was speaking at in 2023 – they're actually best friends and such lovely women too. I'm a total fangirl!)
Autism is a complex and diverse neurological condition that influences how people perceive the world and interact with others. Its full title is autism spectrum disorder (ASD) because it includes a wide range of characteristics, abilities, and challenges. While some people on the spectrum may need significant support, others lead independent lives with minimal assistance. Autism is not a disease or something that needs to be cured – it is a different way of experiencing and interacting with the world.
The term “spectrum” in ASD highlights the variety of traits and experiences that autistic individuals may have. No two autistic people are exactly the same, even if we share certain characteristics. Some people may have strong verbal communication skills, while others may be nonverbal or have difficulty processing spoken language. Some may have exceptional memory or hyperfocus on specific interests, while others may struggle with executive function skills like organisation and time management.
The spectrum also includes a range of sensory sensitivities. Some autistic individuals are highly sensitive to sounds, lights, textures, or other environmental factors, while others may seek out certain sensory experiences. For example, one person might feel overwhelmed by bright lights and loud noises in a shopping centre, while another may find comfort in repetitive movements like rocking or spinning.
Although autism presents differently in every person, some common characteristics include:
Autistic individuals may find social interactions challenging in various ways. They might struggle with understanding social cues, body language, or tone of voice. Some prefer direct, literal communication rather than implied meanings or sarcasm. Others may avoid eye contact or have difficulty initiating and maintaining conversations.
Many autistic individuals engage in repetitive behaviors, also known as "stimming", which can include rocking, hand-flapping, or repeating words and phrases (echolalia). These behaviours often serve as a way to self-regulate emotions or sensory input.
In addition, routines and predictability can be very important for many autistics. Changes in schedules or unexpected events can cause distress.
One of the most celebrated aspects of autism is the intense passion and focus many autistics have for specific subjects. These “special interests” can range from art, mathematics, and history to more niche topics like train schedules, astronomy, or video game mechanics. These deep interests can lead to incredible expertise and skills in a given area.
Autistic individuals may have heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory input, including sounds, textures, lights, and smells. Certain clothing materials might feel unbearable, or background noise in a crowded room may feel overwhelming. Conversely, some autistic individuals may seek out sensory stimulation, such as touching different textures or listening to specific sounds repeatedly.
Executive function skills help people plan, organise, and manage daily tasks. Some autistic individuals may find it difficult to initiate tasks, transition between activities, or keep track of responsibilities. This does not reflect a lack of intelligence or motivation – rather, it means that our brains process and prioritise information differently.
Historically, autism has been framed in terms of deficits or impairments, but this perspective is shifting. We now hear the term ASC (autism spectrum condition) instead of ASD (autism spectrum disorder). ASC is a more positive, less pathologising term.
Many autistic advocates emphasise neurodiversity, which recognises autism as a part of the natural variation of human thinking and cognition rather than a disorder that needs to be fixed. While some autistics may face challenges in certain environments, we also bring unique perspectives, talents, and strengths that contribute to society in meaningful ways.
For example, autistic individuals often excel in pattern recognition, analytical thinking, and creativity. Many great scientists, artists, and innovators throughout history are believed to have been autistic, demonstrating that neurodivergence can be an asset rather than a limitation.
The most important thing for autistics is understanding and support from their communities. Accepting autism means recognising that autistics have different needs and ways of processing the world, and our differences should be accommodated, not suppressed.
Autism is not something to be feared or fixed – it is simply a different way of experiencing the world. By fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding, we can create a society where autistics can thrive.
I'll leave you with one of my favourite quotes, from neurodiversity advocate Harvey Blume:
Neurodiversity may be every bit as crucial for the human race as biodiversity is for life in general. Who can say what form of wiring will be best at any given moment?
The National Autistic Society provides lots of information and support. Find them here: NAS Website
I run a monthly support group for ADHD UK, with a focus on ADHD and Autistic (AuDHD) adults. Find out more here.
While there are so many books available on autism, here are a few of my favourites:
Autism in Heels, Jennifer Cook O'Toole: Buy it here
Odd Girl Out, Laura James: Buy it here
Un-Typical, Pete Wharmby: Read my blog about this book here and buy it here
Unmasking Autism, Dr Devon Price: Buy it here
