"Support and guidance throughout my journey."

After 2 years on the waiting list, I was given my first appointment with the Neurodiversity Services team. I found it amusing that I was sent a set of forms to fill out, especially when I suspected that my lack of focus and putting off tasks was related to ADHD, but they gave me enough time to complete it before my appointment date - so that was very thoughtful of them.

Tickhill Road hospital was easy to get to, and the staff was very warm and welcoming. The assessment lasted around 2 hours long, which I was warned about beforehand, but I was also given plenty of opportunity to take breaks in between. It was very intensive, which I appreciated, as it made me feel like someone was finally taking me seriously.

I was diagnosed with ADHD at my following appointment, and my assigned professional, Shelley, was very thorough and informative regarding my care plan. I appreciated that she asked me questions regarding the symptoms that were giving me the most trouble, and gave me a scientific explanation to why that is, along with other symptoms that I wasn't even aware of.

I was also given the option to treat my ADHD with medication, understanding that it's not always the right choice for everybody, but it was the best option for myself. Shelley explained the different types of medication, and why she prescribes certain types and doses and the reasons why, along with possible side effects, and let me make an educated decision on which one I wanted to trial. I was given a 'loading dose' before moving up to a higher dose, which I found really effective but struggled with the drop in between doses, so I was put on a longer lasting dosage, which got rid of the midday drop. Since then I've been experiencing a bit of anxiety towards the end of the day, as the medication wears off, so I've been given a small dosage just to take the edge off, which I'm currently trialling.

I'm now nearing the end of my care plan, with my next appointment in 3 months, but I've really appreciated Shelley's support and guidance throughout my journey. I feel like I finally have the energy, motivation, and focus to manage both my working and everyday life!