James Wade on ADHD: “Reassuring My Younger Self”
James Wade, a prominent figure in professional darts, reflects on his journey with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in a recent interview. Known for his tenacity and skill, Wade has faced numerous challenges due to his mental health conditions. He has achieved considerable success in darts but also grapples with personal struggles that affect his performance and well-being.
James Wade’s ADHD Journey: “Reassuring My Younger Self”
Diagnosed at 27, Wade’s life has been a mix of triumph and turmoil. He believes his struggles have been compounded by his ADHD and bipolar disorder. In 2010, after a severe depressive episode, he sought treatment at the Priory following heartfelt words from his father: “I just want my son back.”
As of 2023, Wade ranks as the No. 5 player in the world and has won 10 major Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) titles. He recently made headlines by becoming the only player to defeat every PDC world champion on television, having triumphed over Luke Littler at the European Championship.
Current Challenges
Wade is not only focused on his performance but also on his family. His son is undergoing assessment for ADHD, which Wade finds deeply distressing. He expressed sorrow, stating, “It’s heartbreaking. We’ve had to pull him out of school due to outbursts.” Wade aims to guide his son, knowing firsthand the challenges that lie ahead.
His ADHD experiences have made him critical of the misconceptions surrounding the condition. Wade rejects the notion that ADHD can be viewed as a superpower. Instead, he emphasizes the daily frustrations it brings, such as impatience and overwhelming feelings. “ADHD makes things annoying,” he remarked, highlighting the impact of pressure and noise on his mental state.
Medication and Mental Health
Wade’s experience with medication for ADHD has been tumultuous. He ceased taking it in 2022 due to the Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) process, which requires annual assessments by different psychiatrists. He criticized this approach as intrusive and distressing, leading him to stop his treatment.
The Evolution of Darts
Having competed on the PDC Tour for over a decade, Wade has observed significant changes in the sport. While he appreciates the financial growth, he believes there needs to be more support structures for players. Wade argues that the Professional Darts Players Association (PDPA) fails to adequately represent players’ interests, and he craves better communication and support.
A Vision for the Future
Despite these challenges, Wade remains hopeful and is considering launching a charity aimed at supporting neurodivergent individuals. He wants to share his story and encourage discussions about mental health and ADHD. “It needs to be people who actually have it, talking about the real bits,” he articulated.
In reflecting on his younger self, Wade offers a message of reassurance. He acknowledges that life is challenging but encourages self-compassion and patience. “Take it easy,” he advises, recognizing that such wisdom may not have resonated with him at a younger age.
As of 2023, ADHD affects approximately 2.5 million people in England, and understanding the condition’s complexities is crucial. Wade’s insights into his personal experiences underscore the importance of addressing mental health openly and compassionately.
