Living with ADHD isn’t just about losing focus or forgetting where you put your keys. It’s about navigating a world that isn’t built for the way your brain works. Emmanuel Abua’s story is one of resilience, discovery, and, ultimately, empowerment. From early struggles in school to becoming a voice for the neurodivergent community, his journey provides a roadmap for anyone facing an ADHD diagnosis.
Misunderstanding in childhood, struggles in college
Emmanuel’s ADHD story began early—at just five years old, a teacher flagged concerns. Despite excelling on tests, Emmanuel struggled with homework, focus, and organization. These challenges followed him into adulthood, making transitions—like the leap from high school to college—especially difficult.
“I didn’t actually grow up knowing that I had ADHD… supposedly, I had a teacher or an educational professional think I had it at five or six years old. I was put on stimulant medication, but my parents took me off, thinking I’d grow out of it.”
Like many young adults with undiagnosed ADHD, Emmanuel hit a wall in college. He went to Tuskegee University but found himself overwhelmed by the lack of structure. The safety nets of high school—teachers, parents, accountability—were gone.
“The transition from high school to college was difficult. If you don’t go to class, you don’t go. If you don’t turn in homework, no one follows up. The accountability was gone.”
Without the right tools and accommodations, many students with ADHD find college to be a major challenge. Emmanuel changed his major four times in just five months. The pressure of living up to expectations—his own and his family’s—only added to the weight of ADHD and anxiety.
At 19, Emmanuel finally received an ADHD diagnosis. But instead of being a solution, it was just the beginning of another challenge.
“Once I got diagnosed, my family was like, ‘Okay, what pills do you need to take so you can finish?’ But pills don’t teach skills.”
While ADHD medication can be life-changing, it’s not a standalone solution. Emmanuel still faced executive functioning struggles, organization issues, and a deep-seated belief that he had to conform to what others expected of him.
Almost a decade after his ADHD diagnosis, Emmanuel discovered he was also autistic. This revelation sent him into a spiral of depression and denial.
This dual diagnosis (often referred to as AuDHD) explained so much—but at first, Emmanuel rejected it. He hyper-focused on autism while ignoring his ADHD entirely. It wasn’t until Emmanuel connected with the broader neurodivergent community that he began to truly accept himself. Through self-advocacy work, he found purpose and connection.
“For some reason, I just feel better around other ADHD people. Around autistic people, I felt seen, but it wasn’t the same. Amongst ADHDers, it feels like I actually have a voice.”
He joined organizations like ADDA, started speaking out, and found work as a freelance writer and voiceover artist. Sharing his experiences helped him—and others—navigate the challenges of ADHD and co-occurring conditions.
Managing ADHD in adulthood
Emmanuel’s story is a testament to the importance of self-acceptance, support, and structure. Here are some takeaways for those navigating ADHD:
Diagnosis is just the first step. ADHD testing can provide clarity, but managing ADHD requires ongoing effort.
Medication helps, but it’s not a magic fix. Skills like organization, time management, and self-care are just as crucial.
Find your community. Connecting with others who understand ADHD can be life-changing.
Self-care matters. Exercise, proper sleep, and mindfulness all play a role in managing ADHD symptoms.
Embrace your strengths. ADHD is not just about challenges—it comes with creativity, resilience, and unique ways of thinking.
A future of advocacy and change
For Emmanuel, the future is about amplifying the voices of the neurodivergent community.
“What excites me is how much ADHDers and autistics are fed up with how society works. People want real change. I’d like to be one of the voices that helps convey that.”
His journey reminds us that ADHD isn’t a limitation—it’s a different way of experiencing the world. And with the right tools and support, living with ADHD can be empowering.
Take the first step: get your ADHD Diagnostic Evaluation
If Emmanuel’s story resonates with you, it may be time to take control of your own ADHD journey. Understanding your brain is the first step toward thriving. Take the ADHD Diagnostic Evaluation today to gain insight into your unique challenges and strengths.
This article draws on insights from a podcast conversation hosted by ADHD Online, featuring Emmanuel Abua. His perspectives provide valuable guidance for understanding the complexities of ADHD, embracing self-acceptance, and navigating the challenges that come with a dual diagnosis of ADHD and autism.
