Story time
Here, you can read the complete stories shared by our community members. Each story is accompanied by insights, reflections, and visual feedback to help you connect, learn, and feel supported.
Take your time to explore each story—see how others navigate challenges, celebrate small wins, and discover practical strategies. You can also use the reflections as prompts to think about your own experiences and identify actions that can help you grow.
This page is a safe, supportive space for inspiration, understanding, and connection—perfect for adults with ADHD and parents caring for children with ADHD.
Emma's Story
Some days, I feel like I’ve lost touch with who I am. At my young age, I dedicate most of my time to caring for my young son, who has autism. My days are filled with household chores and endless scrolling on my phone.
With my son’s medical appointments and tuition, I rarely get more than a couple of hours each week for myself, even when my mom helps out. I used to love reading and spending time on hobbies, but now it’s hard to focus, and most evenings I find myself just watching TV.
It can feel exhausting to balance caring for someone else while trying to remember what I enjoy or what makes me feel alive. I’m learning to take tiny steps to reconnect with myself, even in small ways.
Tips
Micro-hobbies: Try setting aside even 5-10 minutes a day for an activity you used to enjoy
Self-care window: When your mom helps with your son, use that time intentionally for yourself if you can
Digital mindfulness: Limit mindless scrolling by creating small “phone-free” pockets in your day
Feedback
Remember, even small actions count. Reconnecting doesn’t happen overnight, but recognizing your needs and taking tiny step is progress. Celebrate every small victory – finishing a chapter, enjoying a quiet cup of tea, or doing ne hobby-related activity.
Sarah's Story
I am feeling completely overwhelmed. A series of unexpected events—my car being damaged, a stressful replacement vehicle, and arguments with my teenage son—have left me feeling numb and close to burnout. I struggle with change, intense emotions, and anxiety about things I cannot control. On top of that, I’m waiting for my ADHD assessment and navigating perimenopause, which makes everything feel even more intense.
Tips
Break down stressors: Focus on one thing at a time.
Self-soothing: try mindfulness, grounding or deep breathing.
Safe practice: Practice new skills in a low-pressure setting.
Boundaries: Pause and step away during conflicts.
Journaling: Write down emotions to release pressure.
Feedback
Even though you feel overwhelmed, you notice your limits and emotions – this awareness is a strength, Taking tiny steps to manage one stressor at a time, and seeking support through your assessment, shows resilience. it’s okay to feel frustrated or anxious; noticing it and finding small , manageable ways to cope is progress.
Jane's Story
I was diagnosed with ADHD not long ago, and finally worked up the courage to tell my mom. She’s always dismissed mental health and neurodivergence, and she laughed, saying people nowadays “make up all these new things.” I’ve felt off for years, thinking I was just weird or doing something wrong, and her reaction stung.
Tips
Focus on your own journey, not other’s reactions.
Seek support from understanding friend, online communities, or a therapist.
Celebrate your diagnosis as a step toward understanding yourself better.
Feedback
You’re brave for speaking your truth and taking steps to understand yourself. Your feelings are valid, and acknowledging them is an important part of growth. keep focusing on what helps you thrive.
Claire's Story
I went for an ADHD assessment yesterday, but it left me feeling frustrated and disappointed. Most questions focused on my childhood, and there was nothing about how ADHD affects me now, especially as a 51-year-old menopausal woman and a mother. The assessor said I have traits but mostly anxiety, which I strongly disagree with. I’ve felt dismissed like this my whole life. I’m not sure what to do next or if I should look for a female-focused assessment.
Tips
Trust your experience: If you feel your assessment didn’t reflect your current challenges, consider seeking a second opinion.
Research specialists: Look for ADHD assessments that focus on adults and women.
Document your symptoms: Keep a journal of daily struggles to show patterns and impacts.
Seek support: Talk to ADHD communities or professionals who validate adult experiences.
Feedback
You are advocating for yourself, and that takes courage. Recognizing that your experience matters is powerful. By exploring further assessments and keeping track of your symptoms, you are taking meaningful steps toward understanding yourself better.
Go back to your GP and ask what do you do in this case, you might need to seek a private assessment option.
Siobhan's Story
I constantly feel behind on everything. Even small tasks like paying bills or replying to emails end up on my endless to-do list, and then I procrastinate until the last minute. Deadlines at work make me panic, and I often stay up late trying to finish things, only to make mistakes because I rush. I make plans in my head, but when it comes to actually starting, I get distracted by everything else around me. Some days I feel like I’m running in circles, never catching up.
Tips
- Break tasks into smaller steps and set mini-deadlines.
- Use timers or the Pomodoro technique to stay focused.
- Prioritize tasks by urgency and importance to avoid overwhelm.
- Set up visual reminders or checklists to track progress.
Feedback
You are aware of where your struggles lie, and that’s a huge first step. By recognizing your patterns and trying small, structured strategies, you can gradually take control of your time and reduce stress. Every small action counts!
Jenny's Story
I’ve always struggled to keep up at work. Even when I know exactly what I need to do, I find myself forgetting tasks or getting distracted by emails and messages. Meetings drain me because I can’t focus for long periods, and I often leave feeling like I’ve accomplished nothing. I try to plan my day, but unexpected tasks and constant interruptions throw me off. Deadlines sneak up on me, and I feel stressed and frustrated with myself for not staying on top of things.
Tips
Break tasks into small, manageable steps to reduce overwhelm.
Use timers or the Pomodoro technique to focus in short bursts.
Prioritize tasks with a simple to-do list or app.
Set reminders for deadlines and meetings.
Communicate with colleagues if you need flexibility or support.
Feedback
You’re aware of your challenges and actively trying to manage them, which is already a big step. By implementing small, practical strategies, you can regain control over your work and feel more accomplished each day. Every bit of progress counts!
Kate's Story
Being a parent with ADHD is both rewarding and exhausting. I love my child deeply, but the daily routines—school runs, meals, homework, bedtime—feel overwhelming and chaotic. I often forget small but important things, like signing forms or packing lunches, and then I beat myself up about it. My child also has big emotions, and I sometimes feel guilty when my own ADHD makes it harder to stay calm and patient. I want to be the best parent I can, but some days it feels like I’m just barely holding it together.
Tips
Create simple routines with visual checklists for both you and your child.
Use reminders on your phone for school tasks, meals, or appointments.
Build in “reset moments” during the day where you both take a short break.
Don’t aim for perfection—focus on what matters most in the moment.
Seek support from parenting groups or ADHD communities; you’re not alone.
Feedback
You’re doing better than you think. Parenting is challenging for anyone, and the fact that you care so deeply shows your strength. Even on tough days, your love and effort make a huge difference in your child’s life. Remember, small wins add up.
Susan's Story
Being a parent with ADHD is both rewarding and exhausting. I love my child deeply, but the daily routines—school runs, meals, homework, bedtime—feel overwhelming and chaotic. I often forget small but important things, like signing forms or packing lunches, and then I beat myself up about it. My child also has big emotions, and I sometimes feel guilty when my own ADHD makes it harder to stay calm and patient. I want to be the best parent I can, but some days it feels like I’m just barely holding it together.
Tips
Keep routines consistent and visual, so your child knows what to expect.
Break tasks into small, manageable steps with frequent breaks.
Use positive reinforcement—praise and reward effort, not just results.
Educate teachers, family, and friends so they understand ADHD better.
Prioritize your own self-care; a calmer parent helps a child regulate better.
Feedback
You’re doing an incredible job navigating something many people don’t understand. The fact that you’re looking for ways to support your child shows your dedication and love. Remember: you don’t have to do it all perfectly—your consistent effort is what your child will remember most.
Grace's Story
Lately, my sleep has been a mess. I either stay up too late scrolling on my phone or my brain just won’t switch off when I try to sleep. Even when I do manage to fall asleep, I wake up feeling like I haven’t rested at all. By the afternoon, I’m running on fumes, and no amount of coffee seems to help. It’s frustrating because I know I’d be more productive and calmer if I could just get my energy levels balanced.
Tips
Try keeping a consistent bedtime and wake-up routine, even on weekends.
Reduce screen time an hour before bed—replace it with a calming ritual like reading or stretching.
Keep a notepad by your bed to jot down racing thoughts so your mind can rest.
Short daytime naps (20–30 minutes) can refresh you without hurting night-time sleep.Light exercise during the day can boost your energy and improve sleep quality.
Feedback
You’re not alone—many people with ADHD struggle with sleep and energy. The fact that you’re noticing patterns and wanting change is already progress. Even small improvements, like going to bed 15 minutes earlier or adding a calming routine, can make a big difference over time.
Gillian's Story
Money slips through my fingers so quickly. I’ll go to the shop for just one thing and come back with bags of things I don’t need. Online shopping is even worse—sometimes I hit “buy now” before I’ve even thought it through. Then the guilt hits when bills are due and I realize I’ve overspent again. I’ve tried budgeting apps before, but I forget to check them or I get overwhelmed by all the numbers. It feels like I’m constantly playing catch-up with my own money.
Tips
Use a 24-hour rule: wait one day before buying anything that isn’t essential.
Set up separate accounts: one for bills and essentials, one for spending money.
Try a visual tracker (sticky notes, jars, or a simple whiteboard) so you can see where your money is going.
Automate as much as possible—direct debits and savings transfers reduce stress and impulsive mistakes.
Celebrate small wins—tracking one expense or saving even £5 is progress.
Feedback
Managing money with ADHD is tough, but the fact that you’re aware of your habits shows you’re ready to make changes. You don’t need to fix everything overnight—every small step, like pausing before a purchase or setting up one new system, is a win. You’re building a healthier relationship with money at your own pace.
Ella's Story
I’ve always loved being creative, but with ADHD my hobbies come in bursts. One week I’ll be completely absorbed in painting, staying up all night to finish a piece. Then suddenly, I’ll lose interest and my brushes will sit untouched for months. It makes me feel guilty, like I can’t commit or I’m wasting potential. But when I do get into the flow, it’s one of the few times my mind feels calm and focused, almost like meditation.
Tips
Allow yourself to enjoy “seasonal hobbies”—it’s okay if your interests change.
Create a small space where your hobby tools are always visible and easy to grab.
Set tiny goals (e.g., sketch for 5 minutes, play one song) instead of expecting big projects.
Use your hobbies as a reward system after chores or tasks—it keeps motivation positive.
Feedback
Your creativity is a gift, not a flaw. The way you dive deeply into a hobby shows your ability to focus with passion when something excites you. Even if your interests shift, every creative burst adds to your self-expression and growth. You don’t need to stick to one thing forever—your variety is part of what makes you unique.
Rose's Story
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve started an exercise routine only to quit after a couple of weeks. I get so motivated at first—buying new workout clothes, making a schedule, even tracking progress in an app. But then, life gets busy, my energy drops, and suddenly I can’t stick to it. I feel guilty, like I’ve failed again. Still, I notice that when I do move my body, even just a short walk or stretching, I feel calmer and my thoughts are clearer. I know exercise helps me, but staying consistent is the hardest part.
Tips
Focus on movement, not perfection—even 5 minutes counts.
Pair exercise with something fun (music, podcast, or a friend).
Use visual reminders (like keeping trainers by the door).
Celebrate small wins—one walk, one stretch, one step at a time.
Feedback
You’re not failing—you’re learning what works for your body and energy. Every time you move, no matter how small, you’re giving yourself a gift. Consistency doesn’t mean daily perfection; it means coming back after breaks without shame. Your effort matters, and your body appreciates every little bit of care you give it.
Laura's Story
My phone feels like both my best friend and my biggest enemy. I download productivity apps to help me stay on track, but I end up scrolling social media instead. Notifications pull me in constantly, and sometimes hours go by before I realize how much time I’ve lost. At the same time, I know technology can really help me—reminders, timers, and ADHD-friendly apps have saved me more than once. It’s like I’m always walking a tightrope between being supported and being completely distracted.
Tips
Turn off non-essential notifications to reduce distractions.
Use timers or focus apps that guide you back on task.
Try tech-free zones or hours to rest your brain.
Stick to one or two apps that truly support you instead of downloading too many.
Feedback
You’re not alone—technology is tricky for many with ADHD. The fact that you’re aware of how it affects you shows real self-awareness. Each time you use your phone intentionally instead of automatically, you’re strengthening your control. With small changes, you can make your devices work for you instead of against you.