ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is often associated with children, but an increasing number of adults are being diagnosed later in life. Research suggests around 2.5% of adults globally have ADHD, though this number may be higher as many go undiagnosed until adulthood. In the UK, the conversation around ADHD is gaining visibility, with public figures openly sharing their experiences, helping to reduce stigma and raise awareness.
If you would like to discuss ADHD, either in yourself or a family member, please contact me for a confidential chat.
Recognising ADHD in Adults
ADHD can manifest differently in adults than in children. Common signs include:
- Difficulty focusing: Adults with ADHD often struggle to maintain attention, particularly on tasks that are not engaging. This can affect work performance and everyday responsibilities.
- Impulsivity: Adults with ADHD may make quick decisions without fully considering the consequences, leading to risky behaviours or emotional outbursts.
- Restlessness: While hyperactivity is more evident in children, adults may feel a constant inner restlessness, finding it hard to relax or sit still.
-Disorganisation: Managing time, staying organised, and meeting deadlines can be challenging, leading to feelings of frustration and difficulty maintaining both personal and professional responsibilities.
Many adults who are diagnosed later in life feel relieved to understand the source of their ongoing struggles finally. Still, this realisation can also bring up feelings of shame or inadequacy.
The Personal Impact of ADHD
Living with undiagnosed ADHD can lead to frustration, anxiety, and self-doubt. Clients often tell me they feel overwhelmed by tasks others seem to handle easily. Struggles with organisation, completing projects, and managing time can impact relationships, work, and mental well-being. These challenges can create a sense of failure, which only adds to the emotional burden of ADHD.
However, as a counsellor, I reassure clients that ADHD is not a personal failing. It's a neurological condition that affects how the brain regulates attention and emotions. With the right strategies and support, adults with ADHD can manage these challenges effectively.
Managing ADHD
One of the most effective ways to manage ADHD is to establish structure and routine. A predictable daily schedule helps reduce chaos while breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps makes it easier to stay on track.
Mindfulness and self-compassion are also powerful tools. Learning to manage stress, reduce impulsivity, and approach oneself with kindness can improve emotional regulation and reduce anxiety. Recognising ADHD's strengths—such as creativity and problem-solving skills—can help shift focus from frustration to empowerment, showing clients that ADHD can be an asset rather than a barrier.
How Counselling Supports Adults with ADHD
For those newly diagnosed or suspecting they have ADHD, counselling offers a supportive space to explore how ADHD affects their life. In therapy, we work together to identify practical strategies for managing symptoms and navigate the emotional aspects of living with ADHD.
Counselling helps clients understand how ADHD influences relationships, work, and self-esteem. It provides an opportunity to develop personalised coping strategies, reduce self-criticism, and increase self-awareness. Through therapy, clients can build the tools they need to thrive and feel more in control of their lives.
Seeking Support
If you've recently been diagnosed with ADHD or suspect it might be affecting you, support is available. Whether through therapy or coaching, there are many resources to help you understand your ADHD and develop strategies that work for you. By seeking support, you can begin to manage the symptoms of ADHD in a way that aligns with your strengths and helps you navigate life's challenges more effectively.
Living with ADHD is not about fixing something "broken"—it's about learning to work with your brain's natural tendencies and finding strategies that support your personal success. With the right tools, support, and mindset, adults with ADHD can lead fulfilling, empowered lives.