Embarking on my journey as an ambassador for ADHD UK feels like stepping into the sunlight after years of wandering in the shadows of my own struggles. My path here has not been straightforward, and has been marked by moments of confusion and self-doubt, but it’s led me to a place of acceptance and understanding all parts of me.

For the longest time, I couldn’t quite put my finger on why life seemed like such a challenge. Work felt overwhelming, stress was a constant companion, and I often blamed myself for not being able to cope. It wasn’t until I reached my late thirties and received a diagnosis of complex PTSD that I began to unravel the layers of my mental health journey.

But even with that piece of the puzzle in place, there was still something missing. Menopause brought its own set of challenges, and I started to wonder if hormones were to blame for my ongoing struggles. It was during this time, while seeking support for my daughter’s ADHD and autism assessments, that I recognised a reflection of my own experiences.This discovery was like a lightbulb moment for me. I found the courage to advocate for myself, despite facing initial resistance from my GP. With the invaluable guidance of ADHD UK and other support groups, I embarked on the journey to get a diagnosis, which finally came through when I was 52 years old

That diagnosis felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders. For years, I had felt overlooked, like I didn’t fit in and misunderstood, but finally, there was validation and understanding. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life, where I’m learning to embrace my whole self and let go of the self-perceived failures that weighed me down for so long.

In 2023, I took another significant step on my journey by publishing ‘Turning the Tables on Burnout,’ a book that shares my experiences with trauma recovery and the intertwined nature of burnout and PTSD. Through my writing, I hope to shed light on the vulnerabilities we face and inspire others to seek the support and understanding they deserve.

Now, as an ambassador, my mission is clear: to be an example for those who, like me, have felt lost and alone in their mental health struggles and different wiring. I want to break down the barriers of stigma and shame surrounding ADHD and ensure that everyone has access to the support and resources they need to thrive, so I am also training to be a specialist ADHD coach.

My story is a reminder that understanding and acceptance can be transformative forces. I’m here to help others, to show them that they are not alone, and to advocate for a world where no one has to wait decades to be heard and understood.