Support Groups for ADHD

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We hope you find this page helpful. Remember, ADHD symptoms affect everyone differently, so if you have any concerns, it’s always best to speak with a healthcare professional.

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If you’ve been dealing with ADHD-type symptoms, you might have found it difficult to connect with others who truly understand your experience. You may even feel isolated or misunderstood at times, which can be incredibly frustrating. This is where ADHD support groups can offer a valuable source of emotional and practical help, providing a space where you can connect with people who share similar struggles and insights.

Whether you join an online community or attend in-person meetings, ADHD support groups are a great way to share experiences, learn new strategies, and receive encouragement from others who know what it’s like to live with ADHD symptoms.

The importance of ADHD Support Groups

Support groups for individuals and families dealing with ADHD can provide a lifeline of understanding and guidance. Available both online and in-person, these groups are specifically designed to foster a sense of community and provide practical tools to help you manage the challenges associated with ADHD.

One of the greatest benefits of ADHD support groups is that they allow you to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. For many, simply knowing that they aren’t alone in their struggles can bring significant relief. Beyond emotional validation, support groups also offer a platform for sharing coping strategies, accessing resources, and discovering new ways to manage ADHD on a daily basis.

What to expect

Support groups are much more than just a place to vent. They provide both emotional comfort and tangible strategies to help you thrive with ADHD. Here’s what you can expect when joining an ADHD support group:

 

Peer Support

Being around others who understand what it’s like to live with ADHD can be incredibly comforting. In these groups, you’ll have the opportunity to share your experiences and hear from others who face similar challenges. Whether it’s tips on time management or ways to navigate social relationships, these shared experiences create a support network that’s both uplifting and empowering.

 

Learning from Others

The practical advice you’ll gain from support groups is one of their biggest advantages. Many group members will have developed their own strategies for managing ADHD symptoms, and hearing their successes (and even their setbacks) can provide you with new ideas to try in your own life. From organising tasks to navigating work or school environments or university, the shared knowledge in these groups can be a game-changer.

 

Access to Resources

Support groups often act as a hub for valuable information and resources. Many of these groups connect participants with local ADHD services, recommend professionals like ADHD coaches or therapists, and share updates on treatment options.

Some groups also bring in guest speakers to provide expert advice on managing ADHD, whether that’s a therapist explaining cognitive behavioural therapy techniques or a coach offering tips on improving focus.

 

Emotional Validation

Dealing with ADHD symptoms day in and day out can be exhausting, but support groups provide a space where you feel understood. Being part of a group that acknowledges and validates your feelings can reduce feelings of shame, irritation or frustration, helping you build confidence in managing your ADHD. You’ll often leave group meetings feeling more empowered and hopeful, knowing that others have faced similar challenges and found ways to overcome them.

Online vs In-person support groups

One of the great things about ADHD support groups is their flexibility. With both online and in-person options available, you can choose the format that works best for your lifestyle.

 

Online Support Groups

For those who prefer the convenience of virtual meetings, online support groups provide an excellent alternative. Many organisations offer virtual meetings that connect individuals from across the country. These online groups allow you to join from the comfort of your own home and are particularly helpful if you value anonymity or have a busy schedule. The diverse range of participants also means you can benefit from a wide variety of perspectives and experiences.

 

In-Person Support Groups

If you enjoy face-to-face interactions, in-person ADHD support groups might be more suited to your needs. These groups, often run by local charities or community organisations, provide a personal touch and foster closer connections between members. Meeting others in a relaxed, supportive environment can help you form deeper bonds and build a stronger sense of community. Plus, the physical presence of others who share your struggles can be particularly grounding and comforting. Keen to learn more? Check out our map of in-person support groups.

Start understanding your ADHD

If you recognise the signs of ADHD in your own day-to-day life, you might want to check out our adult ADHD self-test. It’s a simple way to explore whether ADHD could be affecting your daily life, and sharing the PDF report with your GP could help them better understand your experience and make a referral if needed.

It’s just a small step, but it could be helpful in finding the right support and better managing your symptoms.

More detail…

There are a wide range of virtual support groups online, with ADHD UK probably the most well known.

These groups bring together individuals with ADHD-type symptoms, allowing you to connect with others without leaving your home.

One of the main advantages of these online groups is the flexibility they offer, making it easier to join regardless of your schedule.

Whether you need guidance on managing focus, emotional regulation, or messiness and organisation, their virtual groups provide a wealth of shared knowledge and practical strategies. Many participants find that the anonymity of virtual meetings helps them open up more freely, while still gaining the emotional support and practical advice they need.

The ADHD Information Services (ADDISS) offers a wide array of workshops and resources tailored for individuals with ADHD symptoms and their families.

ADDISS provides both practical advice and emotional support through their workshops, covering everything from managing ADHD at home to coping with academic and work challenges. Their resources are designed to help you understand ADHD more deeply and provide actionable strategies to manage it day-to-day.

The workshops often feature guest speakers, such as ADHD experts, who can provide guidance on treatments, coping strategies, and ways to build a more structured life. These resources are invaluable for those seeking both community and practical solutions for living with ADHD.

For a more personal and direct approach, local community support groups offer a fantastic opportunity to meet face-to-face with others who understand the challenges of living with ADHD. Often organised by charities or healthcare providers, these groups offer a space to share experiences, learn new strategies, and foster connections with others in your local area.

The relationships built in these settings can be incredibly rewarding, offering both emotional support and practical advice for managing daily life with ADHD.

Many local groups also provide access to professional resources, such as guest speakers or therapists, ensuring that you have the tools and understanding needed to thrive with ADHD symptoms.

Check out our map of local ADHD support groups to find out more.

Ready to take our Adult ADHD self-test?

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