February 2026 Neurodiversity Newsletter Issue #5
The February 2026 Neurodiversity Newsletter (Issue No. 5) is presented as a warm, informative roundup that celebrates, supports, and empowers neurodivergent adults and their communities. It brings together lived-experience stories, practical strategies, assessment guidance, and professional learning opportunities focused on ADHD, autism, and neuro-affirming care.
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Welcome and overall focus
In this issue, readers are invited to explore how ADHD shows up in everyday life, including workplace dynamics, emotional regulation, and relationships. The publication highlights lived experiences, practical strategies, and learning opportunities, while continuing to emphasize collaboration across the Adult ADHD Centre, Adult Autism Centre, ADHD Training Academy, and the BEST Program.
“ADHD and Management Models”
The first featured story, “ADHD and Management Models” by Naïma Laraki (MSc, CPCC, PCC, MCAC), explores how traditional workplace expectations often do not align with how ADHD brains function. Systems built around consistency, rigid schedules, and linear productivity can create barriers rather than support.
The article explains that focus in ADHD is not constant but occurs in waves, shaped by interest, stimulation, and emotional safety. It highlights how energy management plays a more critical role than time management, and how outcome-based approaches, flexible workflows, and supportive leadership can better support neurodivergent individuals.
“Dopamine Menu”
The second featured story, “Dopamine Menu” by Andrea Dasilva (MEd, RCC), explores the role of dopamine in ADHD and how it affects motivation, behaviour, and emotional regulation. Lower dopamine levels can lead to impulsive behaviours and a constant search for stimulation.
The article introduces the idea of creating a personalized “dopamine menu” to support regulation. Activities are organized into categories such as quick boosts, longer activities, supportive add-ons, and occasional indulgences. This approach helps reduce overwhelm and makes it easier to choose supportive actions during moments of low energy or dysregulation.
Building lasting friendships with ADHD
Another major feature, “Building Lasting Friendships with ADHD,” focuses on how ADHD can impact relationships. It explains that challenges with consistency, time awareness, and emotional regulation can create friction, even when connection and care are strong.
The section highlights patterns such as time blindness, working memory challenges, and rejection sensitivity, which can lead to misunderstandings or withdrawal. It emphasizes that these are neurological patterns rather than personal shortcomings.
Practical strategies include using external supports, simplifying communication, and focusing on relationships that are reciprocal and sustainable. The article reinforces that meaningful, lasting friendships are possible when connection is shaped around how the ADHD brain works.
Team recognition and staying connected
The newsletter concludes by encouraging readers to stay connected with the Adult ADHD Centre and its partner organizations for future resources, events, and updates.
