Communicating about a hidden disability can be one of the most stressful parts of travel. When you’re under-stimulated, over-tired, or mid-sensory overload, finding the right words is incredibly difficult.

The goal here isn’t to provide a full medical history; it’s to communicate what you need to get through the process safely and calmly.

1. Use the “Silent Signal” First

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard is the gold standard in international travel.

• The Benefit: Most major airport staff are trained to recognise it. It tells them: “I may need more time, clearer instructions, or a bit of patience,” without you saying a word.
• Pro Tip: You can normally pick up a lanyard at the airports “Assistance” or “Information” desk as soon as you arrive at the airport, these are usually free. If, like me, you don’t relish the idea of a lanyard – you can purchase bag tags from the Hidden Disabilities website.

2. Practical Scripts for Different Scenarios

Sometimes you have to speak up. Here are a few scenarios and how best to handle them to get the best result:

At the Check-In Desk (Requesting Early Boarding)

“Hi, I have a hidden disability (ADHD) that makes crowded, hectic environments very overwhelming. Is it possible to be added to the priority boarding group so I can get settled before the rush?”

Why does this work – well it focuses on the result (getting settled) rather than the diagnosis.

At Security (Processing Instructions)

“I have ADHD and I struggle to process multiple instructions at once, could you please give me the steps one at a time, please?”

Why does this work – it prevents your from “freezing” when three different officers are shouting about laptops, shoes and liquids.

At the Gate (During a Delay)

“I have a disability that makes ‘time blindness’ and waiting very difficult. Could you let me know if there’s a quiet area nearby where I won’t miss any verbal announcements about my flight?”

3. The “Access Card” Strategy

For many people with ADHD or one of the variants, verbalising needs during a “burnout” or “overload” situation is impossible. You might find it helpful to create your own version of a “Travel Access Card” that you can hand to someone if you need assistance.

What the card should say:

HIDDEN DISABILITY: ADHD

• I may struggle with multi-step instructions.
• I am easily overwhelmed by large crowds/noise.
• I may experience “time blindness” or confusion during delays.
• Please: Speak clearly, be patient, or point me towards a quiet space.

4. Dealing with “The Skeptic”

Occasionally, you may encounter staff or other passengers who don’t understand that ADHD is a disability, the key here is to explain to them as calmly as possible:

“I understand it’s not visible, but it significantly impacts my ability to navigate the airport. I’m just asking for [specific accommodation, e.g. a seat in a quiet zone] to ensure I can travel safely like other passengers.”

Remember: You are not “asking for a favour” – you are requesting access.

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Top 3 Things to Ask For

You may or may not know but you can request the following to help your journey run smoother and ensure your safety and comfort while travelling:

1. DPNA/DNAR – (Disabled Passenger Needing Assistance/Disability No Assitance Required): These keywords can often be added to your flight booking by your airline. It flags to the airline, the cabin crew, ground staff and contact centre agents that you have an intellectual or developmental disability.
2. Escorted Transition: In some (but not all) airports, mainly the huge airports you can ask for assistance getting from one gate to the next during a connection if you are prone to getting lost or distracted.
3. Visual Announcements: Ask if they can provide a written version of what was just said over the intercom if the audio was too distorted or too quiet to understand, which can often be an issue at many airports.