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Rethinking ADHD: Innovation, Inclusion & Everyday Tech
- One HealthTech
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
A summary of our recent OHT Mental Health Network coffee discussion held on Thursday 27th November.
What if the traits we label as "attention deficit" were once essential for human survival? And what if our modern environments, not our brains, are the real mismatch?
These were the questions that sparked a lively and deeply personal conversation during our recent coffee hour, hosted by Klaudia and Kevin. With nearly 20 participants sharing their experiences, insights, and challenges, the discussion ranged from evolutionary psychology to the design of everyday technology.
Here's what emerged...
Reframing ADHD: Disorder or Diversity?
The session began by questioning the very language we use. The term "attention deficit hyperactivity disorder" implies something broken, yet many in the group pushed back against this framing.
From an evolutionary perspective, traits like rapid attention-shifting, environmental scanning, and quick responsiveness may have been advantageous for our ancestors. As Kevin noted, being in a prolonged flow state on the savannah might have made you lunch rather than a survivor. These traits potentially helped humans thrive—until modern systems demanded sustained, linear focus.
The discussion also explored how ADHD might be shaped by early-life experiences and stress, drawing on ideas from Gabor Maté's Scattered Minds. Crucially, these perspectives aren't mutually exclusive: genetic predispositions may be expressed differently depending on developmental context.
Several participants challenged assumptions about which professions suit neurodivergent minds. People with ADHD work successfully in farming, programme management, creative industries, and countless other fields. The stereotype of chaos and disorganisation often doesn't match reality.
Consistency Looks Different for Different People
One of the most resonant insights came from a participant sharing advice from their therapist: "Consistency can look different for different people."
For many, abandoning a rigid schedule isn't failure—it's adaptation. Some participants described cycles of adopting new tools, systems, and formats, only to move on when the novelty fades. But perhaps this isn't a weakness. If reinventing your organisation system every few weeks keeps you productive and engaged, that might simply be your version of consistency.
This perspective shift—from self-criticism to self-acceptance—emerged as a recurring theme. Embracing variability rather than fighting it can reduce the guilt that often accompanies neurodivergent experiences.
Technology: Helper or Hindrance?
The conversation turned to how technology can support (or overwhelm) neurodivergent users.
What works:
Simplicity over features: Participants consistently favoured tools that do one thing well. The metaphor of a carpenter's toolbox resonated—you pick the right tool for the job rather than wrestling with an all-in-one solution that requires extensive configuration.
Reducing cognitive load: Design choices like dark mode, minimal interfaces, and controlled notifications can make a significant difference. One participant noted that turning off all banner notifications is essential for their focus.
AI for structuring thoughts: Several people found AI tools helpful not for doing the work, but for organising scattered ideas into coherent starting points. AI note-takers that can answer "what did I just miss?" during meetings were highlighted as particularly valuable.
Built-in features over specialist apps: Android's Digital Wellbeing focus modes, time limits on social media, and other operating system-level tools often proved more useful than dedicated ADHD apps that don't stick.
Body doubling (with caveats): Working alongside another person—physically or virtually—helps some people focus, though this varies by task. It might work brilliantly for cleaning but be counterproductive for deep work.
What doesn't:
Feature-bloated applications: The commercial pressure to add features creates tools that are overwhelming to set up and navigate. The most complex part of any app is often configuring it to work for you.
Shiny object syndrome: New apps and tools are exciting, but rarely stick. This isn't necessarily a personal failing—it may reflect tools that aren't designed with neurodivergent users in mind.
Always-on expectations: The assumption that people should respond immediately to messages creates constant pressure. Asynchronous communication norms can help manage this overwhelm.
The AuDHD Dimension
A significant part of the discussion addressed the overlap between ADHD and autism, often called AuDHD. These conditions can create conflicting needs: the desire for routine clashes with the need for novelty; strategies that help one aspect may hinder another.
Historically, many people could only receive a diagnosis for one condition, not both. This limitation shaped how support systems were designed—typically addressing only one set of needs. The group identified a clear gap in technology designed for people experiencing both conditions simultaneously.
Customisation emerged as essential, but with an important caveat: too many options can itself be overwhelming. Predefined modes or presets that users can select without extensive configuration may offer a middle ground.
Beyond Tech: Systemic Questions
While the session focused on technology, participants acknowledged that tools alone cannot solve systemic issues.
The recent BBC report on UK ADHD services closing to new patients highlights a healthcare system under strain. When formal support is inaccessible, people increasingly turn to technology as a stopgap. But this raises questions about equity: who benefits from these tools, and who gets left behind?
One participant highlighted UNESCO and EU efforts around accessibility, noting the importance of ensuring that technological advances don't exclude non-verbal users or those at risk of exploitation.
Another thread explored how physical and mental health are interconnected. When designing self-management apps for conditions like asthma, co-design workshops frequently reveal that users also have ADHD, autism, or other neurodivergent traits. A more holistic approach—treating the whole person rather than isolated conditions—could improve outcomes across the board.
Key Takeaways
Language matters: Many prefer framing ADHD as neurodiversity rather than disorder. How we describe these traits shapes how we—and others—perceive them.
Design for simplicity: The best tools reduce cognitive load rather than adding to it. Simple, focused applications often outperform complex, feature-rich alternatives.
Embrace variability: Consistency doesn't have to mean rigidity. Finding your own rhythm is more sustainable than forcing yourself into systems that don't fit.
Customisation with guard rails: Personalisation is valuable, but shouldn't require extensive setup. Predefined modes can balance flexibility with ease of use.
Consider comorbidities: AuDHD and other overlapping conditions require thoughtful design that acknowledges sometimes-conflicting needs.
Think holistically: Physical health, mental health, and neurodivergent traits are interconnected. Support systems should reflect this.
Continue the Conversation
This discussion barely scratched the surface. We're keen to explore these themes further—particularly around practical tech habits and the behavioural norms that help manage overwhelm.
We'd love to hear from you:
What tools or strategies have genuinely worked for you?
What design principles would make everyday technology more neurodivergent-friendly?
Are there specific topics you'd like us to cover in future sessions?
Drop into our Slack channel #oht-sn-mental-health and share your thoughts. Whether you're a designer, researcher, clinician, or someone navigating these challenges personally, your perspective matters.
Thank you to everyone who participated in this rich and honest conversation. Your openness makes these discussions possible.
OHT Mental Health Specialist Network