The Scottish ADHD Coalition ran the ADD Impact programme in Glasgow, Edinburgh and online during 2018-19, thanks to a grant from Shire Pharma. There are no current plans to run the programme again.
ADDImpact is a programme of six workshops, led by and for adults with ADHD working with together with a skilled group facilitator. The programme provides evidence based information, support and discussion of the different aspects of ADHD so that participants gain a greater understanding and acceptance of how the condition affects them and develop strategies to achieve what they want out of life.
ADDImpact ran in Glasgow during September – October 2018. Some of the things participants said they most enjoyed included:
“Getting to speak to others with similar difficulties. Finding out about others’ experiences with medication and self-help”
“Everyone has participated in good faith and encouraged each other. Lots of helpful information presented in simple format,”
“Relating experiences and gaining advice. Also helps develop confidence”
“Marianne has been a fantastic facilitator. Very well structured and felt I could be safe enough to ask questions”
The six workshops cover the following topics:
| Workshop | Overview |
| 1. What is ADHD?
|
Symptoms, impairments
Comorbidities: ASD, sensory issues How we experience ADHD The advantages and disadvantages of having ADHD |
| 2. ADHD and your life | Inattention, hyperfocus, activation
Risk taking, novelty seeking – rocking the boat, spending Being physically, mentally or verbally hyperactive |
| 3. ADHD and emotions | Frustration, irritation, anxiety
Mood swings, extreme emotion Differences between the genders
|
| 4. Medicating and Self Medicating | Addictions – eating, smoking, exercise, sex, drinking…..
Prescribed medications |
| 5. Addressing the fall out of ADHD | Low self esteem
Short term gain, long term cost Insomnia, catastrophising, stress Short fuse, depression, isolation, hoarding |
| 6. Making changes | The importance of change and how it occurs
Are you ready for change? Action planning Moving on – what’s next for this group? |
ADDImpact was originally developed in 2014-15 by the charity Addressing the Balance, with funding from the Edinburgh City Council SDS Innovation Fund and input from NHS Lothian staff.
