for some additional context, finding an alternate term for #ADHD, #ADD and #ADHDer has been somewhat of a community goal, at least for the psych abolition side.

first, because it’s just a terrible name. “attention deficit (hyperactivity) disorder” doesn’t communicate its qualities at all. people with ADHD don’t lack attention, they’re unable to regulate & direct it. hyperactivity is more accurate, but ADHD is also characterized by hypoactivity and energy crashes.

in response, the term #kinetic came to be. it does a much better job, but still falls a bit flat. it’s good at recognizing the need to stim & shifting focus, but less so at recognizing some experiences of hyperfocus, executive dysfunction, hypoactivity, and anhedonia-like symptoms.

so, enter my proposal of #kaleidoscopism. kaleidoscopism is chosen to represent the spectrum of experiences and symptoms, scattered focus, the often mercurial nature of the experience, and vibrancy of experiences when we receive the support we need.

#kaleidoscopic itself is defined as “having complex patterns of colors; multicolored” and “made up of a complex mix of elements; multifaceted,” and i think that fits. :)