Te reo: Language of enrichment

Te Reo Māori sees ADHD as a unique way of being, intertwined with every aspect of one's life, from the physical and mental to the social and spiritual.

ADHD and the beauty of neurodiversity: lessons from Te Reo Māori

Language is vital in describing our world – but also in shaping how we see it and connect with others. Used well, language can enable and affirm people. Used poorly, it can marginalise and intimidate.

During te wiki o te reo Māori, we're pleased to celebrate the opportunity to see ADHD through another lens. Te Reo Hāpai is a glossary that allows us to do this. 

Te Reo Hāpai means the 'language of enrichment'. It has both translations for existing words along with new kupu/words. 

The glossary does more than find the equivalent term in Māori. It also seeks to share the cultural nuance and philosophy that comes with the language.  Some examples are:

• Takiwātanga (Autism), from 'tōku/tōna anō takiwā' meaning, my/his/her own time and space

• Aroreretini (ADHD): meaning attention goes to many things

• Oranga Ararau (Complex/sophisticated Needs): meaning many pathways to wellbeing

Language of enrichement

Te Reo Hāpai was built through more than two years of consultation with people who have lived experience, practitioners, clinicians and kaupapa organisations. Together, they have developed a reference to talk about things such as Alzheimer's, diversity, stigma, ADHD and Autism.

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, has a history of being stigmatised and misunderstood, so it’s refreshing that te reo Māori offers empowerment and recognition. Te reo takes the approach that neurological differences like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and others are the result of natural variations. This differs from the classic Western view that they are ‘disorders’ or ‘deficiencies’. Instead, te reo celebrates unique attributes and sees them as having their own value in society.  

Te reo brings a valuable perspective

Te reo has a rich tapestry of words that weave a holistic narrative for mental health and wellbeing.

For example, instead of focusing on the 'deficit' or 'disorder' part of ADHD, or other conditions, te reo Māori leans towards terms that emphasise the whole being and their relationship to the world around them.

Te reo puts neurological function in the context of hauora —the unique Māori philosophy of health. Hauora has four interconnected dimensions: taha tinana (physical wellbeing), taha hinengaro (mental and emotional wellbeing), taha whānau (social wellbeing), and taha wairua (spiritual wellbeing). So, when considering ADHD from a hauora standpoint, it's not just about a neurological difference; it's about understanding how that difference interacts with each aspect of a person's wellbeing.

Language matters

The language we use to discuss ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence is impactful.

1.     Self-perception: How people with ADHD perceive themselves can be directly influenced by the words society uses. A positive, affirming language can foster self-acceptance and self-esteem.

2.     Stigma: Replacing stigmatised language with more neutral or positive terminology can help reduce prejudices and biases.

3.     Holistic Wellbeing: Using a holistic approach, like hauora, helps us see ADHD not just as an isolated neurological attribute but as an integral part of a person's overall wellbeing.

Let’s celebrate te reo and the richness of diversity

At Beehyve, we're dedicated to moving the conversation around ADHD and neurodiversity away from deficits and towards strengths. Te reo Māori brings a way to see ADHD as a unique way of being, intertwined with every aspect of one's life, from the physical and mental to the social and spiritual.

This te wiki o te reo Māori, let's embrace the rich tapestry of global perspectives to build a more inclusive, understanding, and holistic narrative around ADHD.

Ahakoa he aha te rākau he hua kei roto
No matter the species of tree each bears its own unique fruit ‑ celebrate diversity.