Understanding adult ADHD: Exploring a new diagnosis

ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a condition that’s often associated with children, but increasing numbers of adults are now receiving an ADHD diagnosis, sometimes after many years of unrecognised symptoms. In fact, recent research shows that ADHD affects around 2.5% of adults globally, though the actual rate could be higher, as many people are undiagnosed or only receive a diagnosis in adulthood. 

ADHD has been prominently featured in UK news and social media recently, as well-known TV presenters, comedians, and sports personalities have shared their experiences with ADHD. Their openness has helped raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding the condition.

Common signs of ADHD in adults include:

• Difficulty staying focused: Adults with ADHD often find it hard to complete tasks, stay organised, or keep their attention on one thing, especially if it’s not stimulating.
• Impulsivity: This can lead to making quick decisions, taking risks without considering consequences, or struggling to regulate emotions in challenging situations.
• Hyperactivity: Although often more noticeable in children, adults may still feel restless, fidget frequently, or have trouble relaxing.
• Time management and organisation challenges: Adults with ADHD may find it difficult to manage time, meet deadlines, or stay organised; impacting both personal and professional life.

I am personally interested in ADHD as I suspect this may be me too! Having struggled the whole of my life with organisation, difficulty focusing, completing tasks and projects and thrill-seeking (in many different forms), I understand firsthand the challenges that come with managing ADHD. Some of these difficulties have caused me problems in all areas of my life: with family members, in romantic relationships, with friends and in my working life too. 

Without routine, tools, and techniques, I can quickly feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and anxious, sometimes even becoming self-critical for struggling with tasks that others seem to handle effortlessly. Working as an ADHD-informed therapist, I can relate to the experiences my clients are going through. By sharing evidence-based tools and strategies that have been beneficial to me personally, I’m able to guide clients in finding their own strengths and coping mechanisms.

Managing ADHD

Establishing structure and routine can be very effective for managing overwhelm. Developing a daily schedule and breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can make a significant difference. Behavioural therapy can also support focus, organisation, and impulsivity management. Practising mindfulness and self-compassion can boost self-awareness, helping to reduce impulsive reactions as well as managing stress and anxiety. It's also important to recognise the strengths of ADHD, like creativity and problem-solving - focusing on these strengths can ease feelings of frustration and anxiety.

How counselling can help

For those newly diagnosed, or those who suspect they may have ADHD, counselling can offer a safe, supportive space to explore what this diagnosis means and how to manage the symptoms effectively. Together, we can look at how ADHD impacts your life, identify strategies to manage your symptoms, and build on your strengths. Through counselling, you can gain insight into how to navigate everyday challenges and achieve personal goals.

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed or suspect this may be you, support is available to help you understand and manage ADHD in a way that feels right for you.