If you think you might have ADHD or have already been diagnosed, you may want to know what support is available in Leeds.
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, but it’s not a mental health condition. It’s something that affects how certain parts of our brains work, especially those involved with attention, organisation, and decision-making. If you have ADHD, you might find it harder to:
- focus on tasks
- stay organised or remember things
- manage energy levels or impulses
While living with these challenges can be frustrating, with the right strategies, you can learn to manage day-to-day tasks and achieve your goals. In fact, many people with ADHD find they have other unique strengths, such as creative thinking or the ability to ‘think outside of the box’. They may also have high energy levels that can help with physical activities.
Leeds Adult ADHD Service
The Leeds Adult ADHD Service offers specialist support for people living with ADHD. However, due to very high demand, the service is currently not accepting new referrals. You can stay up-to-date on any changes and find more information on their Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust ADHD page.
Visit Leeds adult ADHD service
If you have questions about why new referrals are paused, the NHS Trust has a helpful FAQ document that might have the answers you’re looking for.
To find out about what support there is for children, young people and families in Leeds, both with and without a formal diagnosis, visit the neurodiversity information hub on MindMate.
Find local and online support
Even though the Leeds Adult ADHD Service isn’t taking new referrals right now, there are still ways to get help.
Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust have created this page of helpful suggestions and resources including online and face-to-face peer support groups.
You can also find ADHD peer support groups and services in our directory.
ADHD and mental health
While ADHD isn’t a mental health condition, it can sometimes lead to mental health challenges like feeling anxious or depressed a lot of the time. This is often because living with ADHD can be overwhelming and affect your work, relationships, or self-esteem.
If you’re struggling with your mental health, the Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service (LMWS) is there to help. They offer a range of psychological support, including:
- cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and counselling
- guided self-help and group classes
- workshops such as overcoming stress and low mood and struggling with motivation.
Visit Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service
You could also talk to your GP about how you’re feeling, or explore our page on talking therapies for more information on low-cost and private therapy in Leeds.
Further Information
For the latest updates and to learn more about ADHD services in Leeds, visit the Leeds Adult ADHD Service page. If you need to get in touch with the service directly, you can contact them at adhd.lypft@nhs.net.