17th March 2025

For most of my life, I didn’t understand why my brain worked the way it did. It wasn’t until I was 22 that I was diagnosed with attention deficit disorder (ADD) and suddenly, so much about my life started to make sense.​

Now, at 24, working in the mental health field with SAMH, I’ve learned to embrace my neurodiversity. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it.​

Before my diagnosis, I often blamed myself for struggling with focus or feeling overwhelmed by tasks that seemed effortless for others. Since then, I’ve come to realise that ADD doesn’t make me ‘less than’ or ‘flawed’—it simply means my brain works differently. That difference is something I’m learning to celebrate.​

An estimated 15% of the UK population are neurodivergent, encompassing conditions such as ADD, autism, dyslexia, and more. Neurodivergent individuals often face significant challenges in the typical workplace, according to this report from Badenoch and Clark.  ​

Moreover, neurodivergent individuals are more likely to experience mental health issues. Studies indicate that up to 50% of autistic individuals experience depression, a stark contrast to the 5% prevalence in the general population. Similarly, approximately 70% of neurodivergent employees report mental health challenges (NeuroBridge).

Working at SAMH has been a game changer. It’s a workplace where mental health is prioritised, and conversations about neurodiversity are not just welcomed but encouraged. This environment has given me the confidence to lean into my strengths:​

  • My creativity allows me to think outside the box to tackle challenges in new ways.​
  • I can use my hyperfocus to channel energy into tasks I’m passionate about.​
  • My empathy fuels my commitment to making a difference in mental health.​

Of course, there are still challenges; deadlines, long meetings, and juggling priorities can feel overwhelming. By working with my manager, I have identified reasonable adjustments to help manage challenges I may experience. I’ve also developed strategies that help me navigate them:​

  • Prioritising open communication and sharing with my team how I work best has built trust and understanding.​
  • I make sure to use tools for focus: timers, to-do lists, and breaking tasks into smaller steps keep me on track.​
  • Importantly, I remind myself that doing my best is enough.​

If we want to create truly inclusive workplaces, we must continue the conversation around neurodiversity and mental health.

For anyone navigating the workplace with ADD (or any other neurodivergence), know that you are not alone. A diagnosis might come later in life, but it’s never too late to understand yourself better and thrive.​

Let’s keep talking about neurodiversity and celebrating the strengths we all bring to the table. When workplaces embrace our differences, we all benefit.​

What’s your story? I’d love to hear how you’ve turned challenges into strengths.