As part of celebrating ADHD Awareness Month, Unlocking ADHD is inviting ADHDers and family members to share stories about their ADHD journey to give insights on what ADHD looks like, and how the strengths of ADHD can be unleashed in their lives. Let’s Reframe how we see ADHD, Rediscover the strengths within, and Rise to new heights of empowerment together!
Isabella is a student completing her O-level examinations this year! During her free time, she works part time in F&B or volunteers as a community first aider at the Red Cross Society Singapore.
When did you get diagnosed?
I got diagnosed with ADHD when I was in Primary 5, aged 11.
What was life like before diagnosis?
I always felt different from others. Back then, I guess I was a curious, energetic, yet vivacious little fella who often did the most random things without thinking twice. I was known as the troublesome student— the one who blurted out a ton of questions before the teacher could speak, the one who got easily distracted, and the one who had problems communicating with her peers.
ADHD made school a challenge for me. I always found it difficult to carry out my tasks efficiently and often felt unmotivated. I struggled with regulating my emotions and impulse control, as I would burst out when triggered. I also had to be reminded multiple times to pay attention in class when I got distracted by external stimuli. However, with the support of many people, I managed to get through it.
What was life like post diagnosis?
Post-diagnosis, I received personalized help from my Special Education Needs Officer (SENO) and school counselors, who have been instrumental in guiding my journey. Their support not only empowered me to overcome obstacles but also imparted a deep understanding of the importance of assisting others facing similar struggles. Through our sessions, I learned valuable skills, such as communicating with others, managing my ADHD symptoms, and expressing myself better.
I face daily challenges with ADHD, but I always remind myself that making mistakes is part of the journey. What matters most is perseverance—trying again and learning to forgive myself while embracing my unique qualities
What do you think are your greatest ADHD strengths?
- ❇️Having the ability to hyperfocus: I focus exceptionally well on activities that pique my interest, like hands-on activities such as sewing, crocheting, etc
- ❇️Remembering vast amounts of information: when I focus on something for an extremely long time, I can see it as a picture in my head
- ❇️Learning kinesthetically: because I tend to be quite fidgety, learning with my hands benefits me a lot
- ❇️Solving certain problems with ease: “ADHDers complicate simple things, but we also simplify complicated things”. When doing math, I find myself able to break down the problems into simpler steps to solve for the answer
- ❇️Being energetic: My brain feels like it is running on a motor 24/7
How do you manage ADHD in daily life?
- ❇️Taking fish oil to help manage some of my hyperactivity, it does help me to focus for a certain period
- ❇️Maintain a goal in mind
- ❇️Simple exercises like stretching help me to remain calm
- ❇️Letting close ones know about my challenges so that they are there to assist me if I ever need help
- ❇️Going for counseling/cognitive behavioural therapy
- ❇️Handicrafts —my go-to hobby to keep myself motivated
How would you advise your younger self?
Know your self worth and have confidence in yourself. Never be afraid of going out there to express who you are.
Complete this sentence: ADHD is …
ADHD is something I was gifted with and I should never feel ashamed of it. I am not disabled, I am differently abled.
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