April 3, 2023
Thinking about an ADHD diagnosis
I have been thinking about getting an ADHD diagnosis for about a year now. Ironically, with a six month waiting list, I could have already had some answers by now. But I didn’t.There were many reasons for this. The biggest was fear of being judged or dismissed. I worried I might be told I was making it up and that I should just get on with things.
From the outside, I look successful. I run my own business and I am married. How could I possibly have ADHD, and be autistic as well?
Fears about getting an ADHD diagnosis
Part of what held me back from seeking an ADHD diagnosis was hearing negative experiences about GPs. Even though I have had the same GP for many years, it still felt like a barrier. Filling in the forms felt like a big step. It meant acknowledging something that I had not fully allowed myself to explore before.
How ADHD can delay the diagnosis process
What made it even harder was the ADHD itself.
Getting motivated to reply to emails, messages, or complete forms can take me a long time. If there is a clear deadline, I can usually do it. Without one, it often does not get done. I also have a habit of replying to messages in my head and believing I have actually sent them, only to realise later that I have not responded at all.
This is a common part of ADHD and executive functioning difficulties, and it can make starting the ADHD diagnosis process feel even more overwhelming.
What motivated me to seek an ADHD diagnosis
What finally motivated me was deciding to start a Master’s degree in Autism and Neurodevelopmental Conditions.
I have wanted to continue my studies for a long time, but the timing never felt quite right. At some point, I realised that if I waited for the perfect moment, I might be waiting forever. I wanted to pursue an ADHD diagnosis so I could access the right support and fully understand my neurodiversity while studying.
It also felt like a way of reframing my past. Instead of seeing myself as lazy or disorganised, I could begin to understand why things had felt more difficult. In some ways, it felt like acknowledging and supporting my younger self who never had access to that understanding.
Starting the ADHD diagnosis process with my GP
I eventually sent the forms to my GP and waited.
When I received a phone call, I was able to explain why I felt an ADHD diagnosis would be helpful. I was asked to write an impact statement about how ADHD affects my life. Completing this felt significant. It allowed me to reflect on my experiences in a structured way.
Now, I feel proud of myself for stepping outside of my comfort zone, getting onto the waiting list, and taking the first step towards answers and support.
Reflections on taking the first step towards diagnosis
Taking action did not remove all the uncertainty, but it did shift something. Instead of staying stuck in doubt, I moved forward. That in itself felt important.
For anyone considering an ADHD diagnosis, it is not just about the outcome. It is also about giving yourself permission to explore your experiences and seek understanding.
Sharing my ADHD diagnosis journey
I wanted to share my experience in case it resonates with others who are thinking about getting an ADHD diagnosis but feel unsure or hesitant. I will continue to share updates on my ADHD diagnosis journey, as well as writing about wider counselling and neurodiversity topics.
If you are thinking about an ADHD diagnosis and would like support exploring this, you can find out more about how I work and the services I offer here.
