Thanks to Jenny from Help & Care for this latest news of support groups for adults with ADHD. Ed
The Isle of Wight Local Involvement Network (LINk) identified the need for a support group on the Island for adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) after receiving feedback from the public about how the only current support networks are for children with the condition and their parents.
Although it is often thought that people simply ‘grow out of it’ ADHD is actually a lifelong condition with many positive outcomes, such as being very creative and/or naturally able to think ‘outside the box’.
Understanding from the community is needed
According to www.nhs.uk, “By the age of 25, an estimated 15% of people diagnosed with childhood ADHD still have a full range of symptoms, and 65% still have some symptoms that affect their daily lives.”
People with ADHD can have a lot to offer each other and the wider community, but more understanding is needed about how the condition impacts on people’s lives.
Local resident, Ian Chadwick, who has ADHD, explains “This group will be an important place to highlight and discuss ADHD, both as individuals and as a group. This way we can compare experiences and support each other as well as pass on lessons to those close to us, who have to live with the effects of ADHD without actually having it themselves.”
Provide support to each other
People with ADHD can provide the best support to each other, as they have a full understanding of the condition, and there’s nothing like being able to ‘swap notes’ with those who fully understand what you’re going through and support groups run by adults with ADHD for adults with the condition are already working successfully around the country, for example in Brighton, Manchester and Bristol.
These groups get people together on a frequent basis and discuss topics chosen by the members, such as medical research or time management.
Now moves are being made to start such a support group on the Island and so a meeting is being planned for adults who have ADHD, on the evening of Monday 26th November. If you are an adult with ADHD and would be interested in getting involved, please contact the Isle of Wight LINk on 0300 111 0102 or at [email protected]
Find out more about Adult ADHD by visiting the ‘Focus on Adult ADHD’ page on the Isle of Wight LINk website at www.makesachange.org.uk
