I was interviewed about ADHD for a BBC Future article. The article highlights an issue that been problematic for a loooooong time, in that ADHD is widely under diagnosed in adults, especially in women and minorities. One of the important factors of an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood, is that it can provide relief and self-understanding, allowing people to better accommodate their needs. However, there still exists challenges, this includes the stigma around the diagnosis and difficulty accepting it, especially for those diagnosed later in life.
The article also explores concerns around potential overdiagnosis of ADHD, but what is overdiagnosis, is a diagnosis the “recognition” of a natural way of being in the world, that has been deemed subnormal and ignored, in the same way women were ignored till they fought to get the vote. Obviously the article mentions the risks and trade-offs of treatment, particularly with stimulant medications. It emphasises the importance of a thorough, individualised approach to diagnosis and treatment, rather than a one-size-fits-all model.
Importantly, the article also highlights the strengths and positive aspects of ADHD, such as creativity, curiosity, and attention to detail. Experts argue that ADHD should not be viewed solely in terms of deficits, but as a form of neurodivergence that can bring unique advantages. But like I say to all the people I work with “we are people of extremes”, and our experiences are the things that explains what that means. With that in mind the article acknowledges both the challenges and the potential for self-acceptance and empowerment.
For years, I struggled with issues like poor focus, disorganisation, and memory problems. I had been diagnosed with dyslexia at 21, but felt something else was at the root of my challenges. It wasn’t until I was 37 years old that I finally received an ADHD diagnosis – a turning point that would change my life.
“I hated the term ‘attention deficit hyperactivity disorder’,” I say. “The two ‘Ds’ suggest dysfunction, so I prefer to call it ‘attention difference hyperdrive’ instead.” This linguistic shift points to my broader perspective – one of embracing my neurodiversity rather than seeing it as a disorder.
My ADHD diagnosis came amidst a “perfect storm” of major life changes and stresses. I was working for different universities, launching a new business, studying for a postgraduate degree, and becoming a new father. It was during this chaotic period that the people in my life started noticing my characteristic behaviours and urged me to seek an evaluation. “The plates were spinning, and they might just come crashing down,” I recall. But receiving the ADHD diagnosis was ultimately a relief. “It explained why I’d always found it difficult to fit in. I could finally forgive myself for the challenges I faced, and others could too.”
Working as an ADHD coach, I draw on my personal experiences to support others navigating adult ADHD. I’ve seen how ADHD is often overlooked, especially in women and minorities. Many of my clients describe reaching a crisis point before finally getting the answers they needed. But I emphasise that an ADHD diagnosis isn’t all downside. In fact, I able to see my “attention difference hyperdrive” as a positive – fuelling my creativity, curiosity, and eye for detail. “ADHD can be a spectacular recipe for many good things,” I say.
Through my work, I hope to shift the narrative around adult ADHD. Rather than focusing on deficits and dysfunction, I want to celebrate the unique strengths that often come hand-in-hand with the condition.
“I’m like a fly on the wall who is also part of the wall,” I say of my dual roles as both an ADHD coach and someone living with an ADHD diagnosis. It’s this lived experience that allows me to offer a compassionate, holistic perspective – one that empowers others to embrace their neurodivergence too.
You can read the article here: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20241003-the-pros-and-cons-of-an-adult-diagnosis-with-adhd
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