Finding Clarity: Your Support for ADHD Diagnosis

My Journey

Hello! My name is Emily, and I’m a 26-year-old former primary school teacher. I have worked in education for nine years, four of which were spent as a teacher. During this time, I witnessed first hand the frontline impact of the lack of NHS services for children with undiagnosed ADHD. The lengthy waitlists and limited resources have made it heart-breaking to see so many students struggling without the support they need.

Despite my dedication to educating young minds, I found myself grappling with my own mental health, leading me to make the difficult decision to leave the profession I loved. The pressures of teaching, combined with my own overwhelming thoughts, made it increasingly challenging to cope.

For over two years, I’ve battled my mental health and wellbeing, feeling lost and misunderstood. Recently, my doctor explained that I had been misdiagnosed with dyslexia during my university years. Instead, I have ADHD—a condition that affects many, yet is often overlooked, especially in women. Studies show that nearly 75% of women with ADHD are misdiagnosed, often due to how the symptoms manifest differently in females.

Understanding ADHD

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is more than just a lack of focus. It includes impulsivity, mood swings, emotional dysregulation, and a constant feeling of being driven by an internal motor.

In women, ADHD often presents differently than it does in men. Research indicates that women are more likely to exhibit inattentive symptoms rather than the hyperactive behaviours often associated with ADHD. As a result, many women go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leading to significant emotional challenges. Studies show that women with ADHD often experience higher rates of anxiety and depression, largely due to the stress of managing their symptoms in a world that doesn’t always accommodate their unique needs. This can create a cycle of frustration and self-doubt, further complicating their mental health.

Impact on Daily Life

One of the most challenging aspects of my life is my struggle with sleep, which massively affects my day-to-day functioning. I’ve worked with my doctor for years to tackle this issue, trying melatonin and countless mindfulness apps. Despite these efforts, sleep remains elusive. The impact of this lack of sleep seeps into every aspect of my life—making it hard to engage fully with family and friends, participate in social activities, or even maintain the household responsibilities that often feel overwhelming.

I find myself feeling irritable and emotionally drained, which affects my relationships and overall quality of life. Even simple tasks can become monumental challenges, leading to feelings of frustration and inadequacy. I believe that a significant part of the solution—both for my sleep issues and many of my other ADHD-related symptoms—would be daily medication to help manage these challenges more effectively. Additionally, ADHD coaching could provide me with tailored strategies and support to navigate daily life more successfully.

Why I Need Your Support

Unfortunately, I don’t come from a wealthy background that allows me to seek private assessments without worry. While I’ve been saving for this diagnosis, living expenses and impulsive spending have made it incredibly difficult to gather the necessary funds.

Securing a private ADHD assessment would mean the world to me. It would provide clarity, helping me understand that I am not "weird" but rather unique and amazing. With this diagnosis, I hope to receive coaching and medication to help manage my daily life better.

I've been on the NHS waitlist for over two years now, with the possibility of waiting up to eight years for a diagnosis. In a world that often feels chaotic, I am eager to find the clarity I need to thrive.

Giving Back

If I’m fortunate enough to receive support through this fundraiser, I pledge to donate £5 each month to Mind, a charity that has been a beacon of hope for my brother and me during tough times. I believe in the importance of mental health support, and I want to ensure that others can find the help they need, just as I hope to.

I see myself as a civil servant to the world, and I believe in the power of community and support. My experiences have fuelled a desire to give back in meaningful ways, whether by raising awareness about ADHD, advocating for better mental health services, or simply being there for someone who feels lost and alone. I want to contribute to a world where everyone has access to the support they deserve, where we uplift each other, and where no one feels misunderstood or overlooked.

If you contribute to my campaign, I will keep you updated on my diagnosis journey. I’ll share insights, progress, and reflections along the way, so you can see first hand how your support is making a difference in my life.

Thank you for considering supporting my journey towards clarity and understanding. Together, we can make a significant difference in my life and the lives of others facing similar challenges.