How to Make Your Website ADHD-Friendly: A Web Design Expert's Guide
So.. I’ve not so long ago realised that I have ADHD. You can say it explains A LOT in my life and why I’ve gravitated towards a career in design.
It’s also got me thinking a lot about how I design my sites. While I make all of them accessable for people with visual or hearing impairments I’ve never really thought about people with ADHD and how we digest information.
I’ve been doing some research into this and I’ve summarised what I think are the main points I’ll consider when designing for clients in the future for clients with or without ADHD.
I hope it help’s if you’re looking to do the same thing to make your website more ADHD-friendly
First things first: Understanding the Challenge
People with ADHD often experience difficulties with attention, memory, and impulsivity. This is totally me, especially the attention bit. Too much on the page and I’m gone. Adios!
This can translate into struggles with websites that are cluttered, text-heavy, or overloaded with flashy animations.
My goal is to create a digital safe space that fosters engagement without triggering unwanted mental roadblocks.
Now, let's dive into the actionable tips:
1. Embrace Simplicity: Less is More
Declutter your design: If you know my previous designs you’ll know they were a bit of a colour overload. Fun and bold but not super ADHD friendly. So I recommend utilising more white space, clean lines, and a consistent layout. Think of your website as a zen garden, not a Las Vegas casino.
Chunk your content: Break down large walls of text into digestible bites. Short paragraphs, bulleted lists, and clear headings are your best friends. This is pretty much my go to for all websites anyway.
Focus on high-contrast: Make text readable with strong font choices and clear colour palettes. Avoid subtle gradients or intricate patterns that can be visually overwhelming.
2. Prioritise Focus and Flow
Navigation matters: Keep menus streamlined and predictable. Consistent placement and intuitive labels are key.
Minimise distractions: Auto-playing videos, flashing ads, and pop-ups are ADHD kryptonite. Stick to intentional interactions and avoid unnecessary clutter.
3. Engage Multiple Senses
Visual storytelling: Images, infographics, and even short videos can break up text and add engaging variety. Just ensure visual elements are relevant and support your content.
Think beyond text: Explore alternative content formats like audio descriptions or text-to-speech options. This caters to different learning styles and preferences.
Interactive elements: Use interactive elements sparingly, but strategically. Think hover effects, expandable menus, or quizzes that encourage active engagement.
By following these guidelines, you can build websites that are not only beautiful, but also inclusive and supportive for people with ADHD. Let's make the internet a space where everyone can focus, explore, and thrive!
Bonus Tip: Remember, every brain is different and if you’re unsure I can help, just get in touch!
