Demystifying ADHD: How Psychiatrist Dawn Brown, Teacher Andrea Slater, and Artist Robert Jinks Are Leading the Way

Dawn Brown, a Texas psychiatrist, is helping to demystify ADHD for both parents and children.^[0] Brown was diagnosed with the neurological disorder at age 31 and her treatment plan is a mix of medication and behavioral management, also known as ADHD coaching, in which kids learn time management and other skills.

Brown is passionate about dispelling the myth that ADHD develops from “bad” parenting.^[1] Instead, she explains, it is a predominantly genetic disorder that is more under-diagnosed than people think.^[1] “ADHD is the most studied medical condition but also the most misunderstood,” says Brown.^[1]

To help children with ADHD, teacher Andrea Slater brings an open mind and a heap of patience to her classroom at Uplift White Rock Hills Preparatory School.^[0] She encourages her students to explore the disorder and to find their own ways to cope with it.

Artist Robert Jinks, who has no formal training beyond high school and junior college art classes, has also developed a Sunday night tradition of spending two hours on each bag he draws.^[0] His artwork spans rap stars, NBA legends, and cultural figures like George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. Through his art, Jinks is helping to raise awareness and understanding of ADHD.

0. “6 Black parenting influencers to follow in 2023” Yahoo! Voices, 13 Feb. 2023, https://www.yahoo.com/now/6-black-parenting-influencers-2023-235450233.html

1. “Black Parenting Influencers To Follow In 2023” TODAY, 13 Feb. 2023, https://www.today.com/parents/moms/black-parenting-social-media-influencers-2023-rcna64950