When my daughter was diagnosed with ADHD and autism, I was focused on understanding her needs. I read the books, attended the appointments, listened carefully to the professionals,  determined to support her in every way I could.

But something unexpected happened.

As I answered the assessment questions about her behaviours, preferences, and challenges, the professionals gently turned the mirror around.

“Have you ever considered that you might be neurodivergent too?”

At first, I brushed it off. Surely not. I’ve always coped.  ven if just barely at times. But the questions stuck with me. And so did the strange feeling of recognition.

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It All Started Making Sense

Suddenly, patterns in my own life began to come into focus.
The sensory overwhelm.
The mental exhaustion after social situations.
The way I always felt “too much” or “not enough.”
The difficulty switching tasks, or hyperfocusing for hours on the things I love.
The need for routine — or the total rejection of it when I feel overwhelmed.

I wasn’t just supporting my child’s discovery of herself. I was discovering myself, too — possibly for the first time with full honesty.

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On the Waiting List… and Still Growing

I’m now on the waiting list for an adult ADHD and autism assessment, and like many in the UK, it’s been over a year.
But even without a formal diagnosis yet, this journey has changed everything.

I no longer label myself as "too sensitive," "lazy," "awkward," or "disorganised."
Instead, I’m learning how my brain just works differently.
And with that shift in understanding has come more self-compassion and less shame.

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Understanding Myself Has Helped Me Support Others Better

As a counsellor, this experience has deepened my empathy for clients who feel they’ve never quite fit in, who struggle to keep up with life’s demands, or who carry old labels that never felt quite right.

Whether you’re wondering about ADHD or autism, or just feeling a sense that something has been missed — you are not alone.
And you don’t need to wait for a diagnosis to start understanding yourself with more kindness.

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You weren’t broken. You were just unsupported.

I hope sharing my experience helps others feel seen and understood too.

In today’s demanding professional environment, anxiety is an increasingly common issue affecting many working individuals. Balancing the myriad demands of a career with personal responsibilities can often feel overwhelming, leading to significant stress and anxiety. This blog aims to explore how anxiety impacts your work life and provide practical tips to help you manage it effectively.

Anxiety can manifest in various ways, from constant worry and restlessness to physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and fatigue. These symptoms can severely impair your ability to concentrate, make decisions, and perform effectively at work. For many, the pressure to meet deadlines, manage heavy workloads, and maintain high levels of productivity creates a vicious cycle, exacerbating anxiety and creating a sense of being trapped.

How Anxiety Affects Your Work Life

1. Reduced Productivity: Anxiety can make it difficult to focus on tasks, leading to procrastination and missed deadlines. When your mind is preoccupied with worries, it’s challenging to be present and efficient in your work, which can result in lower productivity and job performance.

2. Strained Relationships: Anxiety can also affect your interactions with colleagues. Irritability, heightened sensitivity, and stress-induced mood swings can cause conflicts and misunderstandings. This not only makes teamwork difficult but can also lead to a sense of isolation and a toxic work environment.

3. Avoidance Behavior: People with anxiety often engage in avoidance behaviors. You might find yourself skipping meetings, avoiding important tasks, or taking more sick days to escape stressful situations. This avoidance not only hampers your career progression but also reinforces the anxiety, making it harder to break free from its grip.

4. Physical Health Issues: Chronic anxiety can lead to physical health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and a weakened immune system. These health issues can further impact your ability to work effectively and maintain a balanced life.

5. Burnout: Persistent anxiety can lead to burnout, characterised by emotional exhaustion, reduced performance, and a sense of detachment from work. Burnout can have long-lasting effects on your career and personal life, making it crucial to address anxiety before it reaches this stage.

5 Tips to Manage Anxiety and Improve Your Work Life

1. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety. Taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath or engage in guided meditation can significantly lower stress levels and improve your overall well-being.

2. Prioritise and Organise: Effective time management can help reduce anxiety by providing a sense of control over your workload. Prioritise tasks based on their importance and deadlines, and break larger projects into smaller, manageable steps. Using tools like to-do lists and calendars can help you stay organised and on track.

3. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from colleagues, friends, or a mental health professional. Talking about your anxieties with someone you trust can provide relief and perspective. Professional counselling, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help you develop coping strategies and challenge negative thought patterns.

4. Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance: Set boundaries to ensure you have time for relaxation and activities you enjoy outside of work. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are essential for managing anxiety. Make time for hobbies, socialising, and self-care to recharge and maintain your mental health.

5. Develop Positive Coping Mechanisms: Identify healthy ways to cope with stress, such as engaging in physical activity, journaling, or practicing a hobby. Avoid relying on negative coping mechanisms like alcohol, caffeine, or excessive screen time, as these can exacerbate anxiety.

Conclusion

Anxiety is a common but manageable condition that can significantly impact your work life and overall well-being. By understanding its effects and implementing practical strategies, you can reduce its impact and improve your quality of life. If anxiety is affecting your work and personal life, remember that help is available. Seeking counselling is a proactive step towards reclaiming your mental well-being and achieving your full potential at work and beyond. Don’t let anxiety hold you back – take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life today.