You may find some things a bit more difficult than your friends, such as listening or sitting for a long time in class. This is because your brain works a little differently to theirs, and this is not a problem. Everyone's brain works a bit differently, you will find your own way to embrace your skills and talents.
You may find it helpful to talk to your parents or carers, a trusted adult or a teacher about the things you enjoy and are able to manage, and those tasks you find a bit more difficult. They will then help you find ways to navigate these more challenging tasks and manage them successfully.
YoungMinds have some really helpful information about how you might feel if you have ADHD.
ADHD Foundation have produced a booklet, ADHD and You, which approaches ADHD as an opportunity to thrive. It highlights ways you can manage some of the behaviours you present with, how you can 'Make a Deal' to help you follow through with tasks. You'll also find tips on how to manage stress, ways to get organised, how to talk to others about your diagnosis and more.
Recommended by a B&NES' Speech and Language Therapist, 'All Dogs Have ADHD' is a book written for children and young people, taking an affectionate and inspiring look at ADHD.
Many of the typical behaviours of someone with ADHD can have a positive impact on an individual's achievements. The ability to focus intently on an area of interest and being passionate can lead towards very successful paths. Endless energy, creativity, problem solving skills have tremendous value.
Did you know there are many famous people with ADHD? Here are a few of them:
- Will Smith, Actor
- Louis Smith, Olympic Gymnast
- Emma Watson, Actress
- Jamie Oliver, Chef
- Bill Gates, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
- Walt Disney, Animation Legend
- Liv Tyler, Actress
- Britney Spears, Musician
- Winston Churchill, former Prime Minister
- Scott Kelly, Astronaut
If you are on social media, you may be interested in following some accounts from people sharing content surrounding ADHD:
- Mollys_adhd_mayhem (Instagram)
- theneurodivergentnurse (Instagram)
- How To ADHD (YouTube)
- Connor.dewolfe (Instagram)
- CHADD talks ADHD (all platforms)
Socialising with friends
Many youth groups in our area offer an inclusive and welcoming environment for young people with a range of needs, so if there is a group running near you it's worth getting in touch with them and popping along to a session to see if it suits you.
To explore more options that are out there and find one that suits your interests, browse the Social, Leisure and Community directory to find a variety of groups and activities happening regularly.
Wellbeing support
If you want to talk to someone about your ADHD or any other issue, you can find a list of mental health and wellbeing services and advice lines within the Young People's Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Services directory.