It’s More than a Label: It’s a Lifesaver

World Suicide Prevention Day, September 10th 2024

I recently got a tattoo of the dopamine molecule on my arm. It isn't just a cute design. It serves as a powerful symbol of my journey with ADHD. My diagnosis has transformed my life in ways I never thought possible.

Before receiving a diagnosis and gaining insight into my ADHD, I often felt adrift and misunderstood, struggling to find my way in a world that felt both daunting and perplexing. Many of my life experiences led me down a difficult and distressing path, and a lot of the time, I harboured deep fears that, without the necessary support, I might not have the stamina to continue with life.

Since my diagnosis, I have gained a better understanding of myself, which has had a significantly positive impact on both my mental and physical health. I view ADHD not as a limitation but as an integral part of my identity that fuels my creativity and passion for life. Many people flippantly remark about "everything having a label these days." Quite honestly, being diagnosed with ADHD has been a revolution for me. It was like someone gifted me the handbook of my life. For me, this label saved my life.

My tattoo represents dedication to honouring my journey and the power of self-understanding and self-compassion. It serves as a daily reminder that embracing my diagnosis has enabled me to thrive, find joy in my unique perspective, and prioritise my well-being.

If you're feeling lost or struggling to understand yourself, I want and need you to remember this: it's never too late to seek help.

Your story matters, and understanding yourself can be the first step towards healing. If you ever feel like you're too much or not enough, if you feel alone, isolated or like you have no choice but to end your life, please don't do it.

I want you to live.

I want to hear your thoughts about how difficult it has been.

You are valued.

I will help you find your people.

You will feel seen, heard and validated. Your people need you, and you need them.

Neurodivergent people face an uphill struggle in society. We need better support systems. These alarming statistics prove that:

• 66% of autistic adults have considered suicide.
• 35% of autistic adults have tried to take their life.
• Late-diagnosed autistic women are 13 times more likely to die by suicide than their non-autistic counterparts, according to NHS England (2023).
• Autistic people without intellectual disabilities are at an even higher risk of suicide.
• Autistic children are 28 times more likely to attempt suicide than their non-autistic peers.
• In 2023, someone took their own life every 87 minutes.
• Adults with ADHD are five times more likely to attempt suicide.
• 1 in 4 women with ADHD have attempted suicide.
• More than 196,000 adults in the United Kingdom are currently awaiting assessments for ADHD, with an average waiting period of eight years.
• Currently, there is a global shortage of ADHD medication.
• More than 40% of parents with a disabled child have considered suicide.

Please take a moment to read that again.

Then share this vital message.

Every life lost to suicide is one too many.

If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out.

You are not alone.