A Bristol-based illustrator, Ana Jaks, has recently advocated for greater awareness of ADHD in the professional environment after experiencing significant stress prior to her diagnosis. Diagnosed at 27 in 2020, Ana is actively involved in a campaign named Staring Back At Me, which seeks to challenge the stigma surrounding ADHD, particularly as it affects women and non-binary individuals.

Reflecting on her life before the diagnosis, Ana stated that she assumed the constant stress she felt was typical. The Staring Back At Me initiative aims to educate people on ADHD’s symptoms while shedding light on the unique challenges women encounter in work settings. The campaign launched its first phase in 2022, focusing on general awareness of ADHD, and introduced a second phase in October that specifically addresses workplace issues.

As a part of this initiative, Ana created illustrations for the linings of suit jackets worn by campaign ambassadors in a promotional film. These designs symbolize the often-hidden nature of ADHD’s impact on professionals. Campaign ambassador Jenny Mclaughlin expressed hope that sharing their stories would empower other women with ADHD to embrace visibility, emphasizing that those with the condition can contribute positively when given proper support.

Before awareness around ADHD improved, Ana felt compelled to conceal her struggles at work, which intensified her symptoms. She described the toll this took on her mental health, leading to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. Current statistics indicate that despite growing recognition of ADHD, around 50-75% of women remain undiagnosed, a point stressed by Professor Amanda Kirby from the ADHD Foundation.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder influencing how individuals think and learn. Research from 2018 highlighted that a significant number of women with ADHD in the UK have yet to receive a diagnosis. Symptoms often manifest differently between genders; for instance, girls may display more internalized symptoms such as disorganization and forgetfulness.

Ana became aware of her symptoms during her school years when she struggled with distractions and impulsivity. After facing anxiety and depression that led her to drop out of A-Levels, she eventually received her diagnosis after graduating from university and starting her freelance career.

Receiving her diagnosis brought Ana clarity and relief, although it also sparked feelings of regret about not understanding herself earlier. Since then, she has discovered that prioritizing sleep, exercising regularly, and spending time outdoors significantly aids in managing her condition. In the workplace, while she continues to advocate for herself, feedback from clients regarding her disclosure about ADHD has been overwhelmingly positive.