Highlights
- The ADHD symbol is a rainbow butterfly shaped like an infinity loop, adapted from the neurodiversity symbol.
- The symbol represents creativity, transformation, inclusivity, and the idea that ADHD comes with unique strengths.
- People use the ADHD symbol in many ways to express identity and raise awareness.
- The rainbow butterfly meaning may differ from person to person, but many see it as a source of pride and empowerment.
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder — more commonly known as ADHD — is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects around
Visual symbols can be an important part of spreading awareness. The ADHD awareness symbol is a rainbow butterfly. To many people, this represents the idea that ADHD is colorful and full of possibility — not something to hide.
What Is the ADHD Symbol?
The symbol that’s most often used to represent ADHD is a bright-colored rainbow butterfly. The ADHD butterfly is drawn in an infinity loop, which adds another layer of symbolism. It’s inspired by the symbol for neurodivergence, which is a rainbow infinity sign. ADHD, along with autism spectrum disorder, are forms of neurodivergence.
Note that this is not an official ADHD symbol; it was born out of an online grassroots movement, not a formal ADHD organization. So you might see other symbols and images that are said to represent ADHD as well.
Origins and History of the ADHD Symbol
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder — more commonly known as ADHD — is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects around
Visual symbols can be an important part of spreading awareness. The ADHD awareness symbol is a rainbow butterfly. To many people, this represents the idea that ADHD is colorful and full of possibility — not something to hide.
Meaning and Symbolism
There are many meaningful layers to the ADHD symbol. The three main components are the butterfly, the rainbow colors, and the infinity symbol.
Some meanings behind the ADHD symbol include:
- Fast Movement: Just like a butterfly, people with ADHD can think and move quickly, often switching from one thing to the next with ease. This is often looked upon as restlessness or inattention, but it can also be a sign of innovation and creative thinking. These ADHD “superpowers” can become your wings.
- Beauty and Uniqueness: Each person with ADHD has a unique experience, just like every butterfly’s wings have unique patterns. ADHD can be a beautiful strength. It reflects the way people with ADHD often see the world differently, which also means creativity and fresh ideas.
- The Power of Transformation: People with ADHD can grow and transform, especially with treatment. A major transformation can happen when people with ADHD learn to accept themselves for who they are.
- Inclusivity: Rainbows are used as a symbol in different communities to represent inclusivity. For example, the LGBTQ+ community uses a rainbow flag. So using a rainbow in the ADHD symbol can be a way to help the world understand that people with ADHD are diverse and deserve to be included.
- Infinite Potential: The infinity symbol can also represent the limitless potential that people with ADHD (and other neurodiverse people) have. People with ADHD can and do thrive in every area of life, especially with treatment.
- Neurodiversity: The ADHD symbol is adapted from the symbol for neurodiversity. As a person with ADHD, learning about and identifying with neurodiversity can help strengthen pride and self-worth. Many people with ADHD also live with autism, so the symbol can be a way to represent both aspects of yourself.
At the end of the day, the ADHD symbol can represent what you want it to represent. It might be helpful to think about the symbol and reflect on how it may (or may not) represent your experiences living with ADHD.
Official Colors, Ribbons, and Emojis
There are also official colors and emojis that you might see around, especially during October — ADHD Awareness Month.
The official color of ADHD awareness is orange, often represented with an orange ribbon. Keep in mind that the orange ribbon is also used for other causes, so it can be confusing.
Online, you might see ADHD awareness represented by different emojis, since there is no emoji to fully capture the ADHD symbol. For example, you might see different combinations of:
Impact and Importance of the ADHD Symbol
Creating a symbol can help bring unity and pride to communities. They can be especially powerful for traditionally stigmatized conditions (like ADHD). Although awareness is growing, there are still many attitudes that negatively affect people with ADHD.
This symbol can bring hope and pride for people who live with ADHD. You may have been made to feel like this condition was something to hide or even be ashamed of. But this simply isn’t true. Having ADHD just means that your brain works differently than other people’s. The symbol can be a way to remind both you and the community-at-large that ADHD (and neurodivergence) comes with certain strengths.
The ADHD symbol can also be a way to connect the ADHD community. For example, you might see the symbol at work or in other areas. This can help you feel like you’re not alone, and remind you that there are many others who live with the condition, too.
How the ADHD Symbol Is Used
Both individuals and organizations can use the ADHD symbol in different ways, like:
- Displaying it on clothing
- Using it for tattoo inspiration
- Posting it on social media
- Using it during ADHD Awareness Month to advocate for ADHD awareness and rights
But not everyone with ADHD uses or identifies with the symbol. You’re not required to display the symbol to accept yourself or feel ADHD pride. Many people with ADHD feel like they don’t need a symbol to represent who they are.
Conclusion
The ADHD symbol is a simple yet meaningful way to recognize the strengths, experiences, and identity of people living with ADHD. It can bring people together and give you a way of representing your ADHD pride. It also challenges stigma by showing that ADHD is more than a stereotype.
If you’re exploring diagnosis or treatment for ADHD, MEDvidi can help you easily find the right provider and build a care plan that fits your life. Book your appointment today to get help in 24 hours.
FAQs
What is the ADHD animal?
What color represents ADHD?
Is there a symbol for ADHD awareness?
Why is ADHD orange?
Orange was chosen as the ADHD awareness color because it stands out and symbolizes bright energy.
What does a rainbow butterfly mean?
The rainbow butterfly meaning reflects neurodiversity, creativity, transformation, and the vibrant ways ADHD brains can engage with the world.
Is there a symbol for autism and ADHD?
Yes — both are often represented together by the rainbow infinity symbol for neurodivergence, which was the basis for the official ADHD symbol.
