For ADHD Awareness Month, I want to share my journey with ADHD and autism, how my diagnosis has changed the way I see myself, and why I believe creating an open and supportive workplace is so important.

I’ve worked on the Thames Water account for Pertemps for 13 and a half years, having previously spent around 12 years working in branch recruitment. While I was on maternity leave with my first child, Pertemps won the Thames Water contract and I was offered the opportunity to become Account Manager. I was ready for a change and excited to take on a new challenge.

What initially attracted me to the role was the scale of Thames Water, but I quickly developed an appreciation for everything that happens behind the scenes to provide something so many people take for granted. Over the years, I’ve become particularly proud of the work we do to create employment opportunities for people facing barriers to work, including prison leavers, refugees and people who have experienced homelessness.

However, it was through my family that I began a journey of self-discovery that would change how I understood myself.

Recognising the signs

My journey started when my son was diagnosed with autism at a young age. Later, when my daughter was seven, her school suggested she might have ADHD.

As I researched ADHD to better understand and support her, I started recognising many of the same characteristics in myself. I decided to pursue my own assessment and was diagnosed with ADHD. During that process, clinicians also identified a number of autistic traits.

For me, receiving a diagnosis was life-changing. It gave me answers and helped me understand why I sometimes experienced things differently.

I see my ADHD and autism as superpowers. The autistic side of me helps me stay organised, structured and focused, while my ADHD brings energy, creativity, empathy and the ability to hyperfocus on things I’m passionate about.

I’ve also always been someone who can quickly switch into solution mode when a challenge arises. Understanding my neurodiversity has helped me recognise these qualities as strengths and appreciate how they contribute to the way I work.

My diagnosis didn’t change who I was; it helped explain who I had always been.

Understanding wellbeing and avoiding burnout

Burnout is something I’ve experienced in the past, but understanding my diagnosis has helped me recognise the warning signs much earlier.

I’ve invested in counselling and ADHD coaching, which have helped me better understand my experiences and manage feelings of overwhelm. Having that validation has made a real difference to my confidence and how I look after myself.

I’ve also learnt the importance of finding ways to switch off. I enjoy doing jigsaw puzzles, swimming and walking, as they give me time to reset and take a break from the demands of everyday life.

Protecting my time, taking regular breaks and holidays, and being honest when I need support are all things I prioritise now.

I think it’s important to recognise that looking after our wellbeing looks different for everyone. Understanding what works for you and giving yourself permission to take a step back when needed can make a huge difference.

Being open about neurodiversity at work

I would absolutely encourage people to be open about their diagnosis at work, if they feel comfortable doing so. Being able to explain what you need to perform at your best can help others understand you and how they can support you.

For me, routine is important. Having structure helps me stay focused and productive, but I also recognise that there are days when things feel more challenging.

I’m open about that with my colleagues, and I’ve worked to create an environment where people feel safe doing the same.

Everyone has something going on in their lives, whether that’s related to neurodiversity, family, wellbeing or something else entirely. Creating a culture where people can be honest about those challenges makes a huge difference.

I believe a supportive workplace is one where people feel they can ask for help without worrying about being judged. We all work differently, and understanding those differences can help us bring out the best in one another.

How my diagnosis has changed my approach to leadership

Understanding my ADHD and autistic traits has made me more confident, both personally and professionally. I have a better understanding of my strengths, the things I find challenging and what I need to do to perform at my best.

It has also influenced the way I lead. I want the people I work with to feel comfortable being themselves and confident enough to speak up when they need support.

Several colleagues have spoken to me about their own experiences after seeing me talk openly about neurodiversity in a leadership role. That has been incredibly positive.

If sharing my experience helps somebody else feel more confident about discussing their own diagnosis, or encourages them to explore something they have been questioning about themselves, then I’m glad I’ve spoken about it.

I think representation and open conversations are important. When people see others being honest about their experiences, it can help them realise they aren’t alone.

My advice to others

For anyone who is considering an ADHD assessment, or who recognises some of their own experiences in my story, my advice is simple: trust yourself.

If you feel there is something worth exploring, do your research and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Find someone you trust and talk openly about your experiences.

For me, getting a diagnosis gave me answers, confidence and validation. It helped me understand myself in a way I hadn’t before.

Most importantly, I would encourage people not to view neurodiversity as a limitation. There can be challenges, and it’s important to recognise and manage those, but the qualities that make you different can also become your greatest strengths.

My journey has taught me a lot about myself, and I hope that by sharing it, I can help others feel more comfortable being themselves, both at work and beyond.

Ultimately, we all have different strengths, needs and experiences. By listening to one another, having honest conversations and creating supportive environments, we can help everyone feel valued and give them the opportunity to thrive.