"The last time I set foot in an exam hall was over 10 years ago, so I figured that, at 32, getting a formal ADHD diagnosis would be pointless. I made it through school and university, I've established a great career, and I have systems that keep me on top of things. Who needs a label, right? It felt like joining the ranks of those with ADHD diagnoses in my 30s would be...odd."
"The thing is, adults need these diagnoses just as much as kids do, albeit for some different reasons. Children have teachers and parents monitoring them, providing scaffolding for their daily lives. Adults self-manage. No one is bundling me into the car to ensure I make a meeting on time, and if I miss an email, there could be serious consequences."
A person suspected having ADHD but delayed formal diagnosis into their 30s, assuming adulthood and established routines made a label unnecessary. After attending an assessment at 32, the diagnosis proved helpful. Adults require diagnoses for different reasons than children because adults self-manage without external scaffolding from teachers or parents. Existing coping systems like coded calendars, extensive to-do lists, and phone notes help, but diagnosis provides validation and addresses imposter syndrome. Missing emails or meetings can have serious consequences for adults, making formal recognition and targeted support important even for successful, high-functioning individuals.
Read at Business Insider
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