
Sam Thompson: Blame, Masking and Never Feeling Enough
From On The Mend by High Performance
July 20, 2026 · 53 min · Season 3 · Episode 52
About this episode
Sam Thompson discusses his late-stage ADHD diagnosis and the journey towards self-acceptance and forgiveness.
TV presenter Sam Thompson opens up about his late-stage ADHD diagnosis and the profound relief of finally finding a reason, not an excuse, for a lifetime of struggling. Sam shares the emotional reckoning of his diagnosis, recalling the moment he wept uncontrollably as the weight of self-blame, school struggles, and feeling "not enough" finally lifted. He shares the practical, everyday tools that keep him grounded, how ADHD-specific therapy transformed his relationship, and why learning how your brain is wired is the first step to self-forgiveness. It’s a completely honest, shame-free look at accepting who you are and realizing you were never broken. This episode covers the following themes: Late-Diagnosis ADHD, Self-Forgiveness, Neurodiversity, Relationship Dynamics, and Practical Coping Tools. Need Support? Samaritans: Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.org Narcotics Anonymous: na.org Alcoholics Anonymous: alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk Mental Health Mates: mentalhealthmates.co.uk Shout: https: giveusashout.org IAPT: https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/adults/nhs-talking-therapies/ Sam Thompson's new book You, Me & ADHD is available to purchase now…
People in this episode
Guest: Sam Thompson
Topics covered
- Late-Diagnosis ADHD
- Self-Forgiveness
- Neurodiversity
- Relationship Dynamics
- Practical Coping Tools
Keywords
- ADHD
- self-blame
- neurodiversity
- therapy
- coping tools
- mental health
- self-acceptance
Sponsors
AG1, Better Help, Randox
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Postcode Lottery
Books & works: You, Me & ADHD
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