What people see is only part of the picture.
ADHD can involve much more than the behaviours that are easiest to notice. This Free ADHD Iceberg Poster Printable helps children, teenagers and adults look beneath the surface and understand some of the less visible experiences that may sit behind everyday behaviour.
By separating visible traits from experiences that can be harder to see, the iceberg visual provides a simple starting point for more understanding, empathy and supportive conversations — rather than judgement.
What the ADHD Iceberg Shows
Above the surface, the poster highlights traits people may notice more easily, including:
- Distractibility
- Impulsivity
- Forgetfulness
- Fidgeting and restlessness
Below the surface, it highlights experiences that may be less visible, such as:
- Overwhelm and sensory overload
- Emotional dysregulation
- Time blindness
- Executive functioning difficulties
- Working memory challenges
- Low self-esteem
- Anxiety or worry
The poster is an awareness and discussion tool rather than a complete list of ADHD experiences. ADHD can look different from person to person.
Get Your Free ADHD Iceberg Poster
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Great For
- Teachers and teaching assistants
- SEN and SEND settings
- Occupational therapy and counselling spaces
- School wellbeing and inclusion displays
- Parents and caregivers
- ADHD and neurodiversity awareness activities
- Children, teenagers and adults learning about ADHD
Ways to Use the Poster
- Start conversations about visible and less visible ADHD experiences.
- Encourage people to look beyond behaviour.
- Support self-understanding and emotional awareness.
- Use as an inclusion or wellbeing display at home, school or in a support setting.
Created by a qualified Occupational Therapist with experience supporting children’s emotional wellbeing.
Important Information
Free digital download. No physical poster, frame or printed item will be sent.
Colours may vary slightly depending on your screen, printer, ink and paper. For best results, print on good-quality white paper or cardstock.
This resource is intended for educational, awareness and supportive purposes only. It is not a diagnostic or medical tool.
For personal, classroom or professional use only. The file may not be resold, shared, redistributed or used to create other products.
