Is this ADHD?, Sam Thompson’s latest documentary, just aired on E4, but not everyone was pleased.
Throughout the episode, we watch the 30-year-old being evaluated for ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), and after obtaining a positive diagnosis, he embarks on a mission to learn how to live with it as well as possible.
Sam looks into physical activity after determining that medicine isn’t for him.
The former Made in Chelsea star trains with Boxing Evolution instructor Matt Flavell on the pads.
Sam tells Matt in the 21-second scene that he feels excellent psychologically after the physical exertion, but not so much in the body.
Matt, on the other hand, alleges they had a far lengthier dialogue that was cut and has chastised the production firm South Shore for this mistake.
‘Just watched Sam Thompson: Is this ADHD? and am extremely disappointed that out the 20 seconds @South_Shore_UK decided to use, they reduced what I do down to simply pad work, when there was so much more that I discussed that would have been valuable for people to learn.’
Just watched Sam Thompson: Is this ADHD? and am extremely dissapointed that out the 20 seconds @South_Shore_UK decided to use, they reduced what I do down to simply pad work, when there was so much more that I discussed that would have been valuable for people to learn. pic.twitter.com/Wb4FM8ImzN
— Boxing Evolution (@BoxingEvolution) May 8, 2023
Matt, who has ADHD, went on to say, ‘There are numerous psychological advantages to boxing for ADHD that are immediately accessible and affordable, and it can be begun while waiting for your NHS diagnosis for two years.’
Nonetheless, they applauded Sam for his work on the documentary.
‘There could have also been more airtime given in general to non pharmaceutical methods from the other coaches. However a massive well done to @SamThompsonUK for stepping up to do this, you have raised a lot of awareness.’
Sam spoke ahead of the series that his diagnosis was a relief since he had previously worried that he was a ‘dick.’
‘One thing I’ve learned about myself is that I’m not a d**k,’ he told us.
‘I know it sounds ridiculous but I always used to think, “Why can’t I just listen to people?” I’ve learned to give myself a little bit more leeway.’
He added that he hopes ‘to help someone’ with the documentary.
‘Sam Thompson: Is This ADHD?’ is available to watch on All4
What is ADHD?
NHS describes ADHD as ‘a condition that affects people’s behaviour. People with ADHD can seem restless, may have trouble concentrating, and may act on impulse.’
Is it often diagnosed in childhood, but in some cases isn’t recognised until adulthood.
‘Research has also identified a number of possible differences in the brains of people with ADHD when compared with those without the condition.
Other factors suggested as potentially having a role in ADHD include:
- being born prematurely (before the 37th week of pregnancy)
- having a low birth weight
- smoking or alcohol or drug abuse during pregnancy.’
For children, treatments include ‘appropriate educational support, advice and support for parents and affected children, alongside medicine, if necessary.’
For adults, ‘medicine is often the first treatment offered, although psychological therapies may also help.’
