30/07/2024
Diagnosed with ADHD at 53: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Advocacy
It's funny how life throws unexpected curveballs. My wife and I were driving to the South Coast, a time when we usually enjoy a podcast together, or sometimes argue, or just enjoy each other's company. On this particular trip, we were listening to an interview with Gabor Maté—a hero of mine, renowned for his work in compassion, trauma, and therapy. As he delved into his childhood experiences, he candidly spoke about his struggles with ADHD. He recounted how it affected his time in medical school, caused him to procrastinate, say inappropriate things, and put things off until the last minute. As the podcast concluded, my wife turned to me and said, "F**k, I think you've got ADHD."
It might seem strange that this realization came so late, especially considering I've worked in the mental health field for 36 years. However, in my area of specialization, ADHD and neurodiversity were rarely discussed. When they were, it was often seen as someone else's issue. This lack of awareness and understanding has left many, including myself, grappling with challenges we couldn't name or comprehend. It's no wonder so many people are now seeking assessments for lifelong struggles that suddenly make sense when seen through the lens of ADHD.
The diagnosis has been nothing short of life-changing. Nearly all the difficulties I've faced—relationship issues, struggles with self-regulation, even the challenges I encountered in psychotherapy—can be traced back to ADHD. Despite being a psychotherapist myself, I couldn't always regulate my behaviors or implement the changes needed. I consider myself lucky to have navigated a life with undiagnosed ADHD and to have the opportunity now to help others in similar situations.
Since my diagnosis, I've taken steps to better serve those with ADHD. I've qualified as a non-medical prescriber with a special interest in ADHD medication, and I've adapted my psychotherapy training to address the unique challenges of ADHD. Additionally, I've become an ambassador for ADHD UK, leveraging my expertise to educate others and reduce the stigma around this condition.
One of the most frustrating aspects of ADHD is the chronic eye-rolling it induces in others. It's often misunderstood, with only 4.5 to 5% of the population affected, and less than 10% of those in the UK diagnosed or assessed. This underdiagnosis has led to a significant demand on the NHS, with many struggling to access proper treatment and support.
To address these challenges, I've launched a new website and an ADHD assessment and treatment service. My goal is to put patients first, drawing from my own experiences of less-than-ideal treatment pathways. In any culture, real change comes from within. If we want to shift the narrative around ADHD, it starts with us—those who live it, understand it, and are willing to advocate for better awareness and care.
So, watch this space. I'm here to drive change, and I hope to see a future where no one has to suffer in silence with undiagnosed ADHD.
