For most us who have been diagnosed with ADHD as an adult it will have been a long and potentially quite challenging and perhaps costly. But now you have been diagnosed- what now?

I remember it came as quite a surprise to me the first time someone suggested that I might have ADHD, especially as this person was a specialist in the area. I was in my mid-30s at the time, and it had never occurred to me or been suggested that I may have ADHD. Surely, working in mental health, I would have had some idea?

It took several individuals and the courage to discuss this with family and friends before I started to consider that actually, all my quirks and struggles did, in fact, sound like ADHD—the lateness, the intense emotions and sensitivity, being intelligent but struggling with higher education, and the constant struggle to stay tidy.

Deciding to Get Assessed

Even with all these signs, I still wasn't convinced that I needed to explore ADHD assessments. I didn't even think I was "good enough" to have one! I dismissed my symptoms as just me being silly, too sensitive, or lazy.

The main factor that pushed me to seek an assessment was seeing my dad struggle with a severe neurological illness in his 50s. I wanted to take as much care of my own health as possible to prevent something similar from happening to me.

The Assessment Process and Starting Treatment

I was fortunate enough to have the financial support of a special person to afford a private ADHD assessment. After extensive research and speaking with colleagues knowledgeable in ADHD, I first saw a psychologist for assessment and then a psychiatrist.

I scored highly on all aspects of the assessment, yet I still didn't quite believe that I had ADHD. It took time for me to process this diagnosis. The professionals who assessed me were incredibly caring, but after the assessment, I wasn't sure what would happen next, even though medication was recommended.

Concerns About Medication

Medication was a really scary step for me. As a nurse and addictions therapist, I had insight into medication for many conditions, but I knew little about ADHD medication beyond the fact that it was a controlled substance, often a stimulant.

Having worked in addiction treatment for years, I was well aware of the addictive properties of stimulants, and I panicked about whether I would become dependent or harmed by the medication. I was also concerned because one of my most significant struggles was chronic insomnia—what if the medication made it worse?

Luckily, my psychiatrist was incredibly supportive, guiding me through my concerns and offering suggestions for managing ADHD symptoms alongside medication. I feel fortunate to have had this level of support, knowing that ADHD assessment processes and follow-up care can vary widely.

I Have ADHD—What Now?

Despite the great support and understanding I had received, I still wasn’t sure what to do next. Should I tell people? Who needed to know?

Fortunately, I adjusted to my medication well, with any side effects either fading over time or remaining manageable. However, looking back, I realize that having someone knowledgeable to talk to about my diagnosis would have been invaluable.

What Would Have Helped Me?

• Understanding more about starting medication and what to expect
• A space to talk about the process and reflect on life before diagnosis
• Awareness of the full impact of ADHD, including co-occurring physical conditions
• Alternative ways to manage symptoms, such as diet, sleep hygiene, and exercise
• Guidance on who to tell and how to tell them (e.g., employers, healthcare professionals, family, and friends)
• Insights into what doesn’t help and practical strategies for making life easier

I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to undergo an ADHD assessment and access medication and support. It has been a life-changing experience, and I am incredibly grateful.

ADHD: New to Diagnosis Treatment Programme

I interact daily with others who have ADHD—some are friends and family, but just as important are the ADHD clients I work with. They provide me with a wealth of knowledge and a constant reminder of both the strengths and challenges of ADHD, as well as endless creativity in managing struggles and leveraging strengths.

Over the past three years, my caseload has increasingly included ADHD clients—whether they are newly diagnosed or navigating a particularly difficult period in life. Many have welcomed the additional support in managing the more challenging aspects of ADHD.

As a result, I began thinking about what could be most helpful for individuals adjusting to a new ADHD diagnosis. With my clients' feedback and support, I have developed a "NEW TO DIAGNOSIS" 12-Week Programme that offers comprehensive support, information, and guidance for those learning to live with ADHD.

If this sounds valuable to you and you’d like to explore more, why not book a free introductory call?

I can’t wait to hear from you!