Frith ConnoldNavigating ADHD, especially as a woman, has its challenges – but I’ve embraced it as my superpower, not a setback. From natural approaches for managing ADHD symptoms, to thriving in the outdoors, my journey has been anything but conventional.
Diagnosed in primary school, my mum opted for a natural approach, identifying my chemical sensitivities to sugar, taurine, and caffeine. Focusing on low sugar diets rich in protein, veg and omegas, along with an active lifestyle, positively influenced my energy, concentration, and emotional regulation. As an adult, I supplement with nootropics but otherwise follow the same regime.
Contrary to the assumption that individuals with ADHD can’t concentrate, I excelled in subjects I found interesting, especially if the teachers engaged well with me. I asked loads of questions in lessons and aced exams without ever having to study, but when teachers dismissed me, I struggled to engage with their lessons and my grades suffered.
Having worked with children in many capacities now, I totally get why! It’s difficult to cater lessons to different needs, however, having teachers that took the time to understand me and not just dismiss me as ‘difficult’ made a huge difference to my self-belief.
Navigating the professional world with ADHD has presented its share of challenges, but I’ve always aimed to avoid using it as an excuse while acknowledging its impact on my organisation, time management, and maintaining focus on certain tasks. However, it also enables me to hyperfocus for hours, think creatively outside the box and offer unique solutions and approaches to difficult problems.
Unfortunately, some past encounters with employers have sometimes been less than ideal. Remarks about “not getting distracted” after disclosing my ADHD, though well-intentioned, felt inappropriate as they showed a lack of understanding of the condition. Like in school, I have also met frustration from supervisors who didn’t appreciate the fact that I asked a lot of questions when tasks or priorities weren’t made clear.
On the other hand, employers that have offered flexible scheduling have allowed me to manage my time more effectively. Clear communication about expectations and consequences fostered accountability. Encouragement and space for idea-sharing enabled me to contribute creative solutions to problems. The employers who focused my roles on my strengths and supported me in the areas I struggled, always got the best from me as I felt heard and like I was set up to succeed.
The pandemic led me to an unexpected role in HR, where I excelled but felt the impact on my mental health after nearly two years. It really seemed to exacerbate my ADHD symptoms – I wasn’t built to be behind a desk! Seeking a change, I pursued an outdoor instructor course and an amazing summer of work with Land and Wave in Dorset, and not only found renewed joy and purpose, I felt alive again.
The modern world may not be built for neurodivergents, but I have discovered that the outdoors is our sanctuary. As the saying goes: Everybody is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.
Frith Connold is business development manager at Cumbrian Heavy Horses
