Real Life: ADHD
ADHD at work: strengths, challenges and simple adjustments
ADHD at work can bring both unique strengths and everyday challenges. In this episode, Purple Ella speaks with author and blogger Emily and Antonietta Pirillo, Clinical Psychologist, to explore how ADHD affects people in the workplace and the practical adjustments that can help them thrive.
ADHD and task paralysis: When starting a task feels impossible
Why do simple tasks sometimes feel impossible to start? In this episode, Purple Ella is joined by blogger Coco and Neurodevelopmental Specialist Heidi Philips to explore ADHD task paralysis, executive dysfunction and the challenges of getting started when your brain feels stuck.
ADHD: Why conversations can feel so exhausting
ADHD can shape the rhythm of a conversation. Topics might move quickly, you might interrupt or over-share, lose track of what is being said or find yourself talking before you have had time to think. Find out more in this Real Life conversation with Ella, Coco, and Dr Heidi Phillips.
Meet the participants
Purple Ella
Purple Ella presents our ADHD episodes, guiding the conversation of our participants, and asking the questions that often don't get answered. Ella is an autistic and ADHD content creator, coach, author and advocate. They create videos and resources that share honest lived experience and practical advice for neurodivergent people and their families.
Emily
Emily is a writer, speaker and advocate who shares her experiences of ADHD, autism and mental health with openness and thoughtful reflection. We chose her because she is willing to explore difficult experiences alongside personal growth, helping people feel seen while showing that living well does not have to mean trying to “fix” who you are. Her honesty, strength and reflective approach help the audience understand both the challenges of ADHD and the process of learning to live more compassionately with yourself.
Antonietta Pirillo
Antonietta Pirillo is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist working with children, young people and adults, offering virtual appointments and neurodevelopmental assessments. She specialises in ADHD and autism assessment, diagnosis and post-diagnostic support, helping individuals and families better understand their strengths, challenges and support needs.
Coco
Coco is a lived-experience contributor who shares the realities of ADHD with warmth, energy and honesty. They speak openly about both the challenges and strengths of living with ADHD, alongside practical ideas that have helped them. Their relatable approach makes complex experiences feel human, reassuring and easier to understand.
Dr Heidi Phillips
Dr Heidi Phillips is an Associate Professor and ADHD Specialist at Oxford ADHD and Autism Centre. She has extensive experience in assessing and supporting children with ADHD, and is passionate about helping families understand their child's needs.
More Real Life episodes
Lived experience. Clinical insight. Practical support. We have episodes about ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, and eating disorders.
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