Life After Diagnosis · Sharing Your News
Who Do I Tell About My ADHD?
Sharing your diagnosis is a choice, not an obligation. You can decide who to tell, when, and how much — and it’s absolutely fine to take your time.
TELLING THE PEOPLE CLOSE TO YOU
Friends & Family
You don’t owe anyone an explanation, and you can share as much or as little as feels right. Some people find it helps loved ones understand them better. Others prefer to wait. Both are completely valid.
Family
Family may have known you longest, so reactions can be mixed. Choose a calm moment, share a reliable resource, and give them time to take it in.
Friends
You might start with one trusted friend. Explaining what helps you, such as reminders or patience with lateness, can make friendships feel easier.
If it doesn’t go well
Not everyone will understand straight away. Their response says more about what they know than about you. You can always revisit the conversation later.
A sample script you can adapt
“I wanted to share something important with you. I’ve recently been diagnosed with ADHD. It explains a lot about why some things have always felt harder for me. I’m still learning what it means, but it would really help if you could be patient with me and ask if you’re curious.”
AT WORK
Telling your employer
You don't have to tell your employer about your ADHD. If you do, it can open the door to support that helps you do your best work. Take your time and share only what feels right.
Reasonable adjustments
ADHD can count as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. Employers may need to make reasonable adjustments, such as flexible hours, quieter workspaces, written instructions or regular check-ins.
Confidentiality
Health information is sensitive personal data under UK GDPR. You can ask who will be told, how it will be stored, and agree what colleagues need to know, if anything.
UK support
Access to Work can help fund practical support, such as coaching or assistive tools. ACAS, ADHD UK and the NHS website also offer clear, trustworthy guidance.
A sample script
“I've recently been diagnosed with ADHD. I'm sharing this because a few small changes would help me work at my best. Could we talk about written follow-ups after meetings and some quieter time for focused tasks?”
This page offers general information, not legal or medical advice. For your situation, speak to ACAS, Citizens Advice or a qualified professional.
COMMUNICATION SCRIPTS
Finding the words that feel right for you
Telling someone about your ADHD is always your choice. You can share as much or as little as feels comfortable, and you can take your time. These prompts are here to help you think it through gently.
A sample script
“I’ve recently been diagnosed with ADHD. It explains a lot about how my brain works. I’m still learning about it, but it would really help me if you could…”
Finish the sentence with one small, specific request, such as written instructions, gentle reminders or a quieter space to work.
Questions to ask yourself
- Why do I want to share this, and what do I hope will change?
- Who feels safe and supportive to talk to first?
- How much detail do I want to give?
- What support or adjustments would genuinely help me?
- Am I ready, or would I like more time?
Asking for support at work
You might say: “I’d like to talk about some adjustments that would help me do my best work. Could we keep this conversation confidential?”
You can ask who will be told and how your information will be stored. For guidance on your rights, ACAS and Access to Work are helpful UK starting points.
A gentle note
Important information
The information on ADHD & Me is shared for general educational purposes and draws on personal experience. It is not medical, psychological or legal advice, and it is not a substitute for support from a qualified professional. If you have questions about diagnosis, medication or treatment, please speak to your GP or ADHD specialist.
Any workplace information is general in nature. Your rights to reasonable adjustments and confidentiality may depend on your circumstances, so for guidance about your situation you may wish to contact ACAS, your HR team, a trade union or Citizens Advice.
For reputable UK information, you might find the NHS, ADHD UK, ADDISS and the ADHD Foundation helpful. If you are struggling or feel unsafe, please contact your GP, call NHS 111, or ring Samaritans free on 116 123. In an emergency, call 999.