As an end note to ADHD Awareness Month, I (Kirsty) want to share this poem with you that was sent to me by a friend. This really tugged on my heart strings and certainly offers another perspective.
A.D.H.D.
Take my hand and come with me,
I want to teach you about ADHD.
I need you to know, I want to explain,
I have a very different brain.
Sights, sounds, and thoughts collide.
What to do first? I can’t decide.
Please understand I’m not to blame,
I just can’t process things the same.
Take my hand and walk with me,
Let me show you about ADHD.
I try to behave, I want to be good,
But I sometimes forget to do as I should.
Walk with me and wear my shoes,
You’ll see its not the way I’d choose.
I do know what I’m supposed to do,
But my brain is slow getting the message through.
Take my hand and talk with me,
I want to tell you about ADHD.
I rarely think before I talk
I often run when I should walk.
It’s hard to get my school work done,
My thoughts are outside having fun.
I never know just where to start,
I think with my feelings and see with my heart.
Take my hand and stand by me,
I need you to know about ADHD.
It’s hard to explain but I want you to know,
I can’t help letting my feelings show.
Sometimes I’m angry, jealous, or sad.
I feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and mad.
I can’t concentrate and I lose all my stuff.
I try really hard but it’s never enough.
Take my hand and learn with me,
We need to know more about ADHD.
I worry a lot about getting things wrong,
Everything I do takes twice as long.
Everyday is exhausting for me…
Looking through the fog of ADHD.
I’m often so misunderstood,
I would change in a heartbeat if I could.
Take my hand and listen to me,
I want to share a secret about ADHD.
I want you to know there is more to me.
I’m not defined by it, you see.
I’m sensitive, kind and lots of fun.
I’m blamed for things I haven’t done.
I’m the loyalist friend you’ll ever know,
I just need a chance to let it show.
Take my hand and look at me,
Just forget about the ADHD.
I have real feelings just like you.
The love in my heart is just as true.
I may have a brain that can never rest,
But please understand I’m trying my best.
I want you to know, I need you to see,
I’m more than the label, I am still me!!!! ~Author Unknown
Kirsty, Volunteer Blogger
Where to access help and support?
If you recognise the issues describe and feel that you can relate to them and need further support, there are a few places you can access help, advice and support. Initially I would suggest speaking with your GP about any concerns you may have.
The ADHD aware website has some really useful information also:
Getting an NHS ADHD diagnosis – ADHD Aware
The UK Adult ADHD Network also have a list of specialists in the UK
Adult ADHD Service Map (ukaan.org)
Another option is to pay privately for assessment also, and many private clinics offering this can be found online. Similarly if you are struggling with mental health issues, please access support via your GP.
Here at CMHC we can also offer support and a variety of services that are open to the York community.
Counselling and mental health centre | York St John University (yorksj.ac.uk)
