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What role does advocacy play in addressing ADHD-related imposter syndrome? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Advocacy is increasingly recognised as a core part of adult ADHD care, not just an optional extra. According to NICE NG87, adults should be fully involved in decisions about their treatment and supported to understand their options (NICE). This active role helps shift people from feeling powerless to feeling informed; an essential step when imposter-type self-doubt is driven by years of misunderstanding and self-blame. 

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Understanding ADHD reduces self-blame 

Many adults describe long histories of being told they were “lazy” or “not trying hard enough”. Advocacy begins with accurate information: understanding ADHD as a neurodevelopmental condition, not a character flaw. NICE recommends psychoeducation for adults and families to support this reframing (NICE recommendations). Research shows that adults often feel immense relief when their experiences are validated by professionals or peers, helping reduce internalised shame (Brookes study). 

Self-advocacy improves confidence at work and in daily life 

Workplaces can easily misinterpret ADHD-related challenges as carelessness or inconsistency. ACAS neurodiversity guidance encourages employers to provide adjustments such as clearer communication, quieter spaces and realistic deadlines, helping prevent unfair judgments (ACAS). Knowing your rights under the Equality Act helps people ask for support rather than internalise difficulties as incompetence. 

Community advocacy reduces isolation and stigma 

Peer-led organisations such as ADHD UK and ADHDadultUK offer online groups, education and practical guides that help adults understand their strengths and build self-advocacy skills (ADHD UK; ADHDadultUK). Qualitative studies show that being part of an ADHD-aware community reduces feelings of being “the odd one out”, supporting a healthier identity and lowering imposter-type thinking. 

National advocacy changes the wider narrative 

The NHS England Independent ADHD Taskforce reports highlight widespread stigma and misunderstanding, recommending better recognition, training and inclusion of lived experience (NHS England). When systems acknowledge ADHD more openly, individuals can feel more confident that their needs are legitimate, not excuses or personal failings. 

Takeaway 

Advocacy helps adults with ADHD move from silence and self-blame to understanding, validation, and empowered communication. Whether it happens in a clinic, workplace or peer community, advocacy creates the conditions in which imposter-type feelings are more likely to soften, and self-confidence can grow. 

Phoebe Carter, MSc
Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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