Getting An ADHD Diagnosis With Dan Edwards

Curious about how ADHD and dyslexia often overlap? You’re not alone. In this episode, I chat with Dan, who recently discovered he has ADHD after years of wondering. We explore how that curiosity led him to a diagnosis and discuss how dyslexia and ADHD can go hand in hand.

Dan’s story is inspiring. It reminds us that many of us on the dyslexia journey share similar traits like restlessness, hyperfocus, or being easily distracted. His personal insights gave me plenty of “aha” moments, and I’m excited to share them with you.

Spotting the Signs

How do you know if you have ADHD? Dan mentioned that his first big clue was how quickly he hopped between interests. He’d start one project, then get engulfed by a new idea and ditch the last one. If that sounds familiar, you might relate to the “shiny object syndrome” so many of us know well.

He also realised he’d often feel a surge of energy when something exciting came up, but he’d deflate just as fast if it got boring. It was a rollercoaster that left him worn out, but it also made life interesting.

Confirmation from a Diagnosis

A professional diagnosis can be a huge relief. Dan said he finally decided to get checked after posting his suspicions on LinkedIn. He found a community of people who lived with dyslexia, autism, or ADHD—or a mix of all three. Their stories rang so true that he knew it was time to see a professional.

“I always wondered if I was just a bit scattered or if it was something else,” Dan said. “Finding out I have ADHD was like a missing puzzle piece clicking into place.”

Hearing Dan describe his journey reminded me of how broad and overlapping neurodiversity can be. It’s rarely just one thing.

Dyslexia and ADHD: A Common Pair

It’s pretty common to see dyslexia and ADHD together. The quick thinking that comes with dyslexia can match the impulsivity of ADHD. That’s not always a bad thing, though. Dan explained that it can open doors to fresh ideas and creativity—if you learn to manage the chaos.

He admitted it can be draining too. Suppose you’re already finding spelling and reading tough, then add in the difficulty focusing. It can feel like a mental tug-of-war between your reading brain and your restless brain. That’s why building awareness is so important.

Embracing Neurodiversity

Dan’s biggest realisation was that you aren’t broken if you think or learn differently. In fact, it’s a sign of unique strengths. ADHD can help you spot fascinating patterns, while dyslexia can give you big-picture vision. Blending them can be powerful once you know how to navigate it.

He’s been open about the highs and lows on his LinkedIn profile. Sharing experiences publicly isn’t easy, but doing so can create a ripple effect. If you’re willing to open up, you might be surprised by the support you get.

What’s Next?

A diagnosis doesn’t mean you’re done. It’s just the beginning. Dan is now exploring how ADHD affects his work habits and daily life. He’s derailed less often, communicates his needs better, and sets up structures he knows will help him stay grounded. It’s about understanding yourself so you can thrive.

If you’re also feeling that mental tug-of-war, consider giving yourself permission to seek more information. You deserve to know how your mind works. There’s lots of help out there, whether that’s connecting with others on social media or diving into resources like our course.

• Take small steps to learn about ADHD or dyslexia if you’re uncertain.
• Share your story with someone who gets it. Support is crucial.
• Experiment with tools and routines to find what calms the chaos.
• Celebrate every small win. Neurodiversity isn’t a life sentence, it’s a life advantage.

Key Takeaways

• A mix of dyslexia, ADHD, and even autism traits is more common than you might think.
• A proper diagnosis can lift a huge weight off your shoulders and help you move forward.
• Dyslexia and ADHD together can create a blend of raw creativity and restless focus.
• Embracing neurodiversity means recognising your strengths and finding a system to support them.
• Community and shared experiences are invaluable when you’re feeling isolated.

Ready to dive deeper? Our Confident Dyslexic course helps you navigate life with dyslexia (and sometimes ADHD too). It’s designed for those who want to understand how their unique brain wiring can become a superpower.

If Dan’s story resonated with you, there’s so much more to hear in the full conversation. Scroll up to the podcast player and give it a listen. You might just find the clarity, encouragement, or next step you’ve been looking for.