ADHD film-makers have our attention

Jun 1 2011 by Kaiya Marjoribanks, Stirling Observer Wednesday

YOUNG people with ADHD were applauded at a special premiere at the macrobert arts centre recently.

The centre’s Filmhouse Theatre was packed for the screening of “ADHD Outtakes”, a short film made by local youngsters with the condition in a bid to help change attitudes.

The young filmmakers were also hoping people who themselves had ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and their families would take away some encouragement from the film.

But its influence is set to spread even wider, as after the screening professionals in the field asked if they could have permission to pass copies of the DVD on to other young people being diagnosed with the condition.

Funding to run the project came from Stirling Community Planning Partnership and the local Safer Communities Team, and an invitation to take part was put out to all the young people with an ADHD diagnosis who access PLUS – which works across the Stirling Council area to give children and young people with disabilities support to get out and have fun with people of their own age.

An invitation was also made available through the Stirling Youth Partnership for other young people interested in taking part.

One of the film-makers, Rory (18), whose accomplished work as a carpenter featured in the film drew gasps from the audience, said: “We wanted to make people aware of the day-to-day problems we have and make people aware that we are the same as everyone else.

“This DVD should hopefully help everyone realise how difficult it can be for us but that we can achieve a lot if given the chance.”

Kayleigh (17), said: “My advice to young people who have just been diagnosed is to make a group of friends who understand what ADHD is. Parents should encourage the support of your teachers. Find out what you enjoy and are good at because you will likely excel in that compared to other people.

“There is lots of support available so make sure you get it – and ignore people who say you can’t achieve something. I have three offers from university.”

Joe (12) said: “We want people to understand that ADHD can be a good thing not a bad thing. It doesn’t make you bad it is just that you need different types of support from parents, teachers and friends.

“Sometimes people judge you straight away without getting to know you. There’s no magic switch I can flick but my teacher is very understanding.

“I think sometimes people think it means you are a bad person but I can use my energy to focus on something and become good at it.”

Callum (12), said: “I hope this DVD helps people understand, shows that ADHD is not a bad thing and that people with ADHD can go on to achieve a lot.

“This project has helped me understand I am not the only person who feels the way I do and I have learned not be ashamed of myself and that not everything is my fault.

“It can be hard to concentrate on my work and my teacher has helped me with this. I would like to thank everyone who has helped me through my life so far.”

The team put the DVD together in nine, 90-minute sessions since October.

It includes the young people themselves talking about ADHD, interviews with teachers, a psychiatrist and parents, animation and details of a new report. The issues discussed include the pros and cons of medication, feelings of isolation and the difference more understanding of the condition from the general public can make.

For further information telephone 01786 450086 or email: inc@plus-stirling.org.uk