Workshop Reflection: Adult ADHD Services

Keira (co-researcher) reflects on Adult ADHD workshop:

The purpose of the workshop was to look into how the Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board are providing services for adults who think they may have ADHD.

‘I got the opportunity to take part in an adult ADHD workshop, to look at possible changes to relevant services in Lancashire and South Cumbria. The event was hosted on teams and run by Chantelle Bennett (Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board). I got to hear the views of others on how systems run and could be improved. Such as the diagnosis process, with a repeated theme on the struggles women face, as their symptoms may present differently than men. I found these discussions to be important, as myself and other participants were given the space to speak freely, whilst feeling heard and understood. At first, it felt a little daunting to speak about all my experiences, however the facilitators ensured it was a calm and welcoming space. My favourite part were the breakout rooms, as the groups were smaller, and the facilitators were super friendly, which made it easier to talk more openly. We were asked a variety of questions such as 'How can we understand who is most at need of diagnostic assessment or clinical treatment?' and 'What would you have benefited from knowing at the beginning of your journey, from what you know now?' Discussions included, how the long the diagnosis process can take and the need for preventative care.’

We look forward to attending more workshops in the future.