As part of ADHD Awareness Month, we interviewed Rosie, our Digital Administrator at PAVO, to discuss her personal journey with ADHD, how it affects her work and life, and her advice for others on a similar path.
Rosie’s ADHD Journey
When were you diagnosed with ADHD?
I was diagnosed in the summer of 2022, at 37 years old. I started researching ADHD around 2017.
What was your experience of being diagnosed like?
My experience was overall positive. I presented a long list of reasons and symptoms I had researched to my GP and discussed why I believed I had ADHD. After about six months, I had two appointments with the ADHD team at Bronllys Hospital. During the second appointment, I was diagnosed on the spot and given options to start medication.
Were there any challenges leading up to your diagnosis?
I’ve always felt different, despite making friends easily. I often felt like a fraud, using my quick wit and humour to blend in socially, though internally I felt disconnected. I’ve struggled with dyslexia, which is often associated with ADHD. In school, I could follow higher-level classes mentally but couldn’t keep up with the physical demands of writing and reading, which led to me being placed in lower-grade classes.
I received minimal support during my education. In primary school, I had a special needs teacher to help with reading and writing, but after experiencing physical and verbal abuse, that assistance was stopped. In high school, I received no help, encouragement, or advice for the future, which was a difficult and isolating time for me.
Many teachers noted that I was easily distracted, disorganised, and forgetful, which carried into adulthood. I always wondered why tasks seemed harder for me than for others. It wasn’t until I began understanding neurodiversity and researching ADHD that I realised I wasn’t “stupid”—I was simply wired differently.
One quote that has helped me during difficult times is from Albert Einstein:
“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”
What were some of the key emotions or realisations you had after your diagnosis?
For years, I pushed myself to fit into society’s expectations, which caused immense self-doubt and anxiety. After my diagnosis, I began noticing how overstimulating daily life can be—strong perfumes, bright lights, and noisy environments all became more apparent. I started recognising patterns in my behaviour, particularly my efforts to seem “normal.”
I realised how vulnerable people with ADHD can be, often missing red flags or signs of danger. Conversely, I can also be hyper-perceptive, picking up on subtle body language cues. Social situations remain difficult, as I tend to dominate conversations or interrupt people—not out of rudeness but because I’m eager to relate and be accepted.
Before my diagnosis, these situations would leave me miserable and withdrawn. Now, I recognise these behaviours as part of ADHD and have started to learn coping strategies, though it’s still a work in progress.
ADHD and Your Role
How does PAVO support you in managing your ADHD?
PAVO is the first organisation where I truly feel I can be myself. The policies around mental health, diversity, and equality are supportive. I feel understood, and they encourage me to work in ways that suit my neurodivergent needs. For instance, I can use loop earplugs and regularly check in with my line manager about my well-being.
How does ADHD impact your work in both positive and challenging ways?
Being open about ADHD allows me to relax and work to my strengths. I use computer layouts that help me process information more easily and feel appreciated for my creative ideas. However, I struggle with distractions and overstimulation, especially in social interactions or environments with bright lights or loud noises. These can make me irritable or overly sensitive.
Are there any workplace adjustments or tools that you find helpful in managing your ADHD symptoms?
Distractions are a major issue for me, and I produce my best work when I can control my environment, which is easier at home. However, my job requires me to be office-based, so I plan my days to manage distractions. I use spreadsheets to organise tasks, cognitive tools for self-regulation, and physical comforts like noise-cancelling earplugs.
Living with ADHD
What do you see as the benefits of having ADHD?
I’m very creative, enthusiastic, and eager to please. I often give more than 100% because I want to do well and prove myself. I’m organised and good at thinking outside the box, often finding solutions others haven’t considered.
What are the drawbacks of having ADHD?
Due to my life experiences, I’ve dealt with low self-esteem, echolalia (repeating words or phrases), stimming, tics, rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD), emotional dysregulation (ED), and auditory processing disorder (APD), among other challenges. I also experience fatigue, get distracted easily, and can hyper-focus on tasks to the point where I can’t rest until they’re complete.
How do you manage your ADHD symptoms day-to-day?
I’ve chosen to try medication, which has greatly improved my focus and organisation. I also use aids like loop earplugs, weighted blankets, and breathing exercises. Spreadsheets help me manage finances and schedule tasks, both at home and at work.
What tips would you give to people with ADHD who are looking to thrive at work and in life?
Take care of yourself and practise self-awareness. Make plans for well-being escapes, like taking breaks or stepping outside for fresh air. Drink plenty of water, set alarms to snap out of hyper-focus, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed.
If I could tell my younger self anything, it would be:
“You’re normal, there’s nothing wrong with you. Everything will be okay. And drink more water—you’re probably just thirsty.”
For Those on the Journey
What advice would you give to people seeking an ADHD diagnosis?
Be honest with yourself about how things make you feel. Don’t push yourself to fit societal expectations at the expense of your well-being. High masking can only last so long before it takes a toll on your mental and physical health.
Is there anything you wish you had known earlier in your ADHD journey?
I believe my life would have been different if I’d been diagnosed younger and received proper support. But my advice is to not be ashamed of being neurodivergent. The more open we are, the less stigma there is.
Reflections and Final Thoughts
Do you think there are misconceptions about ADHD that people should be more aware of?
Absolutely. Many people think ADHD is just an excuse for certain behaviours, but it’s a real, complex condition with many symptoms. I urge people to read up on it before making judgements.
What’s one thing you wish everyone knew about ADHD in the workplace or life in general?
Be kind. You never know what someone is going through or how difficult everyday tasks might be for them. Educate yourself, and don’t belittle someone’s struggles.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience with ADHD?
If you think you’re neurodivergent, talk to someone, research it, and seek a diagnosis. It’s never too late to start your journey. And remember, you’re not weird or different—you deserve to be happy just like everyone else.
Trust yourself, fight for your well-being, and embrace who you are.