An Ipswich woman who received an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood has turned her personal journey into a source of support for others by launching a new local community group.
Christina Reeves was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder several years ago, a moment she describes as life-changing. The diagnosis helped her better understand her childhood experiences and the challenges she faced as an adult, particularly in her professional life. Rather than seeing ADHD as something “wrong,” she began to recognise it as a difference in how her brain works.
Growing up, Reeves did not display the stereotypical signs often associated with ADHD. She was not hyperactive and did not cause disruption in class. Instead, she struggled quietly with focus and concentration, particularly during lessons that failed to hold her attention. These difficulties followed her into adulthood and became more noticeable during her career as a teacher.
She found that tasks such as marking took significantly longer for her than for her colleagues. Everyday responsibilities felt more demanding, and she often questioned why seemingly simple tasks felt so overwhelming. At the time, she did not have an explanation for these struggles.
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis provided clarity and relief. Reeves says it helped her stop blaming herself and reframe her experiences through a new lens. With this understanding, she decided to retrain as an accredited ADHD coach, hoping to help others navigate similar challenges.
However, through her work, she noticed a gap in wider community support. While coaching helped individuals one-to-one, Reeves felt there was a lack of safe, accessible spaces where adults with ADHD could connect, share experiences, and feel understood. That insight led her to create ADHD Suffolk, a free support group launched in October.
Reeves emphasises that ADHD affects everyone differently and that there is no one-size-fits-all experience. For that reason, she wants the group to evolve based on the needs and voices of its members. Her goal is to offer the kind of support she wished had been available when she was first seeking help, especially during the often stressful waiting period for diagnosis.
According to NHS estimates, around 2.5 million people in England are believed to have ADHD, including many who remain undiagnosed. Research from King’s College London suggests that growing awareness of the condition has driven a sharp increase in people seeking assessments and support in recent years.
Reeves says that while clinical services are essential, community support can play a vital role in helping people feel less isolated. ADHD Suffolk aims to provide that sense of connection in a relaxed and understanding environment.
The group meets on the third Thursday of every month at Ipswich Sports Club on Henley Road, between 5:30pm and 7:00pm. In addition to regular meet-ups, Reeves plans to invite guest speakers and host workshops covering practical strategies, wellbeing, and everyday life with ADHD.
By sharing her story and creating a welcoming space for others, Reeves hopes to reduce stigma, encourage understanding, and remind people with ADHD that they are not alone.
