This blog post is part of the ‘My Story’ section in our TalkCampus Wellness Centre, where students share their personal experiences to support and encourage their peers.
Sarah, a student and member of the TalkCampus community, was recently diagnosed with ADHD in her thirties. She very kindly offered to share her journey, from struggling through school and career changes to finding strategies that work for her and embracing her diagnosis. Sarah's story highlights the importance of understanding mental health and the power of self-acceptance.
My ADHD journey began long ago, but I was only formally diagnosed recently, well into my thirties. I found myself in the algorithmic loop of Instagram, where among the endless reels and posts, I started recognising parts of my life in funny skits and informative content about living in a world not designed for those with ADHD. I brought this up in therapy, and my therapist looked at me wide-eyed. He didn’t believe I could have ADHD. But after a long series of tests, it became clear: I have inattentive-type ADHD, something I had become very good at hiding.
The Struggles Beneath the Surface
Some argue that we live in a time where mental health, and health in general, is overly medicalised. My therapist once asked me, "Why do you care about a diagnosis, especially since you've been managing so well?" I quickly replied, "To understand my patterns better, to understand myself better." The truth was, I hadn’t been managing as well as it seemed. I did okay in school, but studying took me much longer than it did for my peers. I spent so much time in my bedroom, struggling to keep up. Exams filled me with anxiety. Even after pulling all-nighters, the moment the paper hit my desk, everything I had studied seemed to disappear from my brain. My parents and teachers would say I was either too stressed or not studying enough—often implying it was both. So, I’d go back and try even harder.
A Change in Direction: Finding Myself in Drama School
I did manage to get through school, but by university, I was too scared and dropped out. I didn’t think I was smart enough for engineering school. So I decided to go to drama school instead (plot twist!). There, I thought I'd be free because I wouldn’t have to write exams. But once again, I spent endless hours studying and practicing. I was confused because my first attempt was always my best—while my peers got better with practice, I felt like my performance declined. Still, I finished, and life moved on.
Career Shifts and Mental Health Advocacy
My restless spirit took me through various careers, but none brought true happiness. I felt a growing sense of inadequacy because I couldn’t follow a traditional career path. I saw my peers working hard and succeeding, while I felt like I wasn’t (or so I thought). To keep up, I enrolled in countless courses, collecting certificates and badges. Aware of the mental health challenges I’d faced since childhood, I started advocating for mental health. This passion led me back to university, where I’m now pursuing a degree in Health and Social Care.
Learning to Study on My Own Terms
Interestingly, I now love studying. I study part-time, on my own terms. There’s no pressure from parents or teachers to follow study habits that don’t work for me. I’ve developed strategies that fit my learning style, like breaking down tasks into smaller chunks to help me stay focused. I highlight, write notes in the margins, and most importantly, I’m not afraid to ask questions or request feedback. I still procrastinate sometimes, but now I know that’s just part of how my brain works. I’ve learned to be more gentle and understanding with myself.
Finding Peace in Understanding ADHD
After my diagnosis, I felt confused for a while. I wasn’t sure where ADHD ended and my personality began—it seemed like many traits I thought made me "unique" were actually related to ADHD. But eventually, I stopped overthinking it. One unexpected positive was finding out my mum also has ADHD, though hers has more hyperactive traits. This revelation helped me understand her better. Since my diagnosis, my partner and I communicate more effectively, which has made life a bit smoother. I’m also a better parent because I understand my limits and have stopped striving for perfection. I’m still masking at times, but hopefully, over time, the mask will become smaller and more revealing.
One Step at a Time
If I’ve learned anything, it’s to take one step at a time. A diagnosis doesn’t have to be a label slapped on who we are. It can be a powerful tool to help us better navigate life and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves.
How can students on TalkCampus support those with ADHD?
People with ADHD, or any mental health challenge, come to TalkCampus to open up without fear of stigma. For many students, especially those just leaving home for university, managing life without the structure they’re used to can be tough—especially with ADHD. Our community can really help by starting open conversations, offering support, and reminding them they’re not alone in this transition. ADHD also comes with strengths like creativity, resilience, and multitasking. Highlighting these positives, rather than just the challenges, makes a huge difference!
What can they say or ask?
Ask questions that help you understand their experience without judgment. Share ideas like working in intervals, keeping lists, or other tips that might have worked for you, but remember that every ADHD journey is different, so what works for one person might not work for another—and that’s totally okay!
Anything to avoid saying?
While awareness is growing, there’s still stigma around ADHD. Avoid saying things like "everyone has a little ADHD" or treating it as a trend. ADHD, especially in girls, is often misunderstood or dismissed, leading to years of self-doubt. The key is to listen with an open mind and respect each person’s unique story.
What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) affects how people behave, often making them seem restless, struggle to concentrate, or act impulsively. Adults with ADHD might have difficulties with time management, staying organised, following instructions, and coping with stress. They may also feel impatient or take risks without thinking. Some struggle with relationships or social interactions, and many also experience anxiety or sleep disorders.
What causes ADHD?
The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, but it tends to run in families. Research has found differences in brain development in people with ADHD. Other factors that may play a role include being born prematurely, having a low birthweight, or exposure to alcohol, drugs, or smoking during pregnancy.
ADHD Symptoms
ADHD symptoms can be grouped into two main categories:
Inattentiveness: Difficulty concentrating or staying focused (sometimes called ADD).
Hyperactivity & Impulsiveness: Restlessness, acting without thinking.
Many people with ADHD experience both types, but not always. Some may only have problems with focus, which can make their ADHD harder to spot—especially in girls, who are often underdiagnosed.
Getting Help
While social platforms can raise awareness and help people connect over ADHD experiences, it’s important to seek advice from a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. If you think you may have ADHD as an adult but weren’t diagnosed as a child, speaking to your doctor is a good place to start.
Find out more about ADHD here: https://add.org/adhd-facts/