Louise Darnbrough

Hi, I’m Louise and I am so excited to become an ADHD UK ambassador.

Being recently diagnosed with AuDHD at 51 all of a sudden my life has some explanation for why I do what I do. How I have faced challenges over the years and why I’ve missed out. Navigating this new path brought me to ADHD UK.

My childhood was peppered with telltale signs, I lacked general focus, interest and enthusiasm at school without hyperactivity to arouse attention.

A hyper focus came at 13 when attending the local ballet school. I was obsessed. I was recognised and accepted as a scholar in London at 17 and went on to achieve an associate teaching diploma at 21. But I was diagnosed with depression at 19. I did not recognise burnout or why I felt no sense of achievement. The only answer was I was depressed.

A few years later, I decided to return to study law as a mature student. The Open University welcomed me to learn but I needed support. This lead to being diagnosed with dyslexia and dyspraxia, enabling me to complete a law degree using smart technology instead of traditional studying. I could listen to all my books and use dictation software to prepare my assignments. I also had reasonable adjustments for exams which I could sit at home using my laptop. This was a game changer. Without their support I wouldn’t be where I am today working as a lawyer.

Anything is possible when you have the right support. I am passionate about helping people. I am also a mental health first aider though MHFA England.

Finally being diagnosed as AuDHD is life changing. I was misdiagnosed for 35 years. I want to raise awareness and challenge the stigma creating a better understanding of how amazing we all are.

@loukardar