The Thinking Mind Podcast: Psychiatry & Psychotherapy E122 - Why is an ADHD diagnosis helpful? (w/ Robin Ince)
May 1, 2025
In this conversation with Robin Ince, a comedian and science communicator, listeners delve into the transformative power of an ADHD diagnosis. Robin shares his personal journey, highlighting the relief and self-acceptance he found through his assessment. The dialogue explores the creative strengths of ADHD alongside its challenges, and practical strategies for navigating daily life. They also address important topics like access inequality and the nuances of diagnosis, emphasizing a need for a more compassionate and pragmatic approach to support.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Twitter Message Changed Everything
- A young man on Twitter suggested Robin might be ADHD and opened the door to exploration.
- That contact triggered his book and led him to re-evaluate long-standing inner experiences.
Diagnosis Shrunk The Inner–Outer Gap
- Diagnosis reduced the disparity between Robin's inner self and outward life and eased chronic negative self-talk.
- He calls it shedding a heavy, damp coat and experiencing more benevolent focus and joy.
Uncomfortable Assessment, Useful Outcome
- Robin had an official ADHD assessment he didn't enjoy but pursued for pragmatism and credibility.
- He values the diagnosis as an 'instruction manual' that unlocked understanding and freedom.
