As diagnoses of ADHD soar and waiting lists for referrals stretch on for years, it can seem increasingly difficult to find support and an explanation for why you are the way that you are. In this brand new title, we’ll explore what exactly ADHD is and how it can impact your life, from infancy all the way through to adulthood. Whether you were termed a troublemaker at school because you couldn’t concentrate in class, or you’ve found yourself chronically overthinking relationships or experiencing executive dysfunction as a grown-up, it can be reassuring to know that you’re not alone. It’s estimated that around 2.6 million people in the UK have ADHD, but less than a quarter of these have an official diagnosis. We’ll guide you through what ADHD is and how it might be affecting you, and we’ll share some expert-approved ways to manage your symptoms, from how to beat imposter syndrome and thrive at work, to how to support your child if you suspect they’re living with ADHD.
Welcome
Understanding ADHD • A complex yet commonly experienced disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) gives individuals a unique combination of strengths and difficulties
Women, hormones and ADHD • We explore how the menstrual cycle and menopause can impact women who live with ADHD
Using hormonal birth control
Seeking a diagnosis • Do you think you or your child has ADHD but aren’t sure what to do next? Getting a diagnosis is an important first step, but don’t feel intimidated – we walk you through the process here
Pros and cons of seeking a diagnosis
ADHD in adulthood • As neurodiversity enters the mainstream, more and more adults are seeking, and receiving, diagnoses of neurodiversity. We’ve spoken to people who have done exactly this…
Find a way forward
Fashion or freedom?
Treatments and coping mechanisms • Covering medication, talking therapies and self-help strategies, here are some of the ways that you can manage the symptoms of ADHD
Making the most of fidget toys
Adaptations for the classroom
Comorbidities • How other conditions present with ADHD, including a range of comorbidities such as autism, dyslexia, anxiety and depression
Your mental health masterclass • With neurodiversity comes the feeling of being different – and that can lead to struggles with our mental wellbeing
How to be calm
Grounding techniques to manage anxiety • Things to do to stop your mind spinning out of control
Memory games
What is masking? • We explain what we mean by ‘masking’, what it looks like, and what the effects of masking can be
Spot the signs of masking
Does my child have ADHD? • How does neurodiversity manifest itself in children, and is it something to worry about? We speak to Dr Sinead Doyle to understand what ADHD and autism mean, and how to support children
Supporting your child • Failing to recognise symptoms of ADHD can lead to children struggling academically and socially, so it’s important for parents to arm themselves with the facts
ADHD Friendly Schools award
Sleeping tips
Reading tips
Sticks and stones • While we may be aware of the impact that bullying has on children, too often we ignore the scarred adults it leaves in its wake
Safeguarding children from bullying
Moving beyond the trauma
Don’t suffer in silence
The emotional rollercoaster • Emotional problems are incredibly common in those with ADHD, from emotional dysregulation to meltdowns. Fortunately, there are ways you can help yourself
Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD)
Feeling inferior • Neurodiverse people may struggle with low self-esteem, inferiority complex and imposter syndrome. We look at why that is and how to build...