Getting diagnosed with ADHD was a confusing and unexpected process for me as it came as a bit of a surprise at the age of 29. I was given some information from the doctor with websites but I was looking for local support groups and couldn't really find anything.
I found the Headstuff ADHD website and I'm so glad I contacted them. Sarah was so helpful and advised me about Access to Work funding and paired me with Lex who could help me with ADHD coaching.
I never would have known how much help and support I could get for work and Lex helped me do the ATW application and explained the process step by step.
I also couldn't have afforded to pay for coaching myself and having this option was extremely helpful.
I have worked with other professionals and counsellors in the past but Lex's approach and ADHD informed knowledge has helped me immensely.
I now have words for all the difficulties and struggles I experience and am beginning to understand how my brain works and how to approach life. She has also been amazing at getting to the root causes or emotions of what I'm experiencing when I can't really verbalise or express it.
I feel truly understood and empowered and I feel like I know myself more now than I ever have.
My communication skills have improved personally and in my relationships and I feel more resilient within myself. I also feel more confident and value myself more and am more aware of my strengths and weaknesses. I understand my triggers and know what I need to function better.
I think before having coaching I had a lot of self blame and low self esteem resulting from being undiagnosed and not understanding why I couldn't just 'do life' the way other people seem to.
I'm so glad I have had this experience as it really has changed my life and this is only the beginning. I just wish I knew earlier and had the support, but I'm so happy I have it now.
Female, 30, Devon