My undiagnosed ADHD hasn’t stopped me helping people in their most challenging moments
For years, I believed I wasn’t capable—until I saw how my struggles could shape someone’s life. Now, I know I can achieve what I put my mind to. Jonathan Breen, a Belfast-based nurse, transformed his life after a shift from nursing assistant to registered nurse, proving that learning doesn’t have to come at the cost of fear.
Jonathan spent 14 years working in mental health services, beginning as a nursing assistant and supporting patients through some of their most difficult moments. He grew inspired by the nurses he worked alongside, realizing his passion wasn’t just for a job but for the human stories they helped share.
Inspired by the nurses, he transitioned to a role where he could offer more than just care: tailored academic and wellbeing support during his studies. His journey began when he noticed colleagues studying at The Open University—where he now works—and how their flexibility allowed them to balance work and study without feeling overwhelmed. This realization sparked his decision to pursue further education.
“I loved working in mental health (https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/all-about/mental-health) , listening to people’s stories, and helping them navigate difficult times,” Jonathan explained. “I saw how nurses were able to provide additional support and guidance. What made it special was not the pay increase, but the sense of being there when someone felt hopeless.”
But university had always felt out of reach. At school, he struggled with undiagnosed ADHD and left with only four GCSEs, lacking English and Maths. After years of believing he wasn’t capable, he realized that confidence stemmed from self-belief—not just grades.
This belief shifted when he met colleagues who successfully studied through The Open University while continuing their careers. Encouraged by their experiences, Jonathan applied for the nursing degree, determined to prove that learning isn’t just about academics—it’s about building routines and trusting one’s ability to thrive.
The support he received was vital. Studying part-time while working in mental health allowed him to maintain stability, but it was the personalized academic and wellbeing support that truly made the difference. With guidance from staff, he adapted his approach to learning, managing focus and building study habits that aligned with his brain’s natural rhythms.
“The flexibility was vital. It allowed me to build a study routine that worked for me and learn in a way that suited my brain,” he said. “It wasn’t just about meeting entry requirements; it was about finding ways to stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed.”
Balancing work and study wasn’t easy, but with consistent support and a growing belief in his own ability, Jonathan set himself a personal goal: to graduate with a First-Class Honours degree in Mental Health Nursing. “I didn’t need a first to get a job,” he said. “But I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it.” After years of dedication, he achieved exactly that, earning his nursing registration in an inpatient service for older adults.
Reflecting on his journey, Jonathan says the experience changed how he sees himself: “The degree unlocked confidence in myself that I didn’t know was there.” For years, he believed he wasn’t capable. Now, he knows he can achieve what he put his mind to. Whether studying during quiet moments at home or joining tutorials remotely while traveling, he remained engaged without feeling overwhelmed.
Balancing work and study was not without its challenges, but with consistent support and a growing belief in his own ability, Jonathan set himself a personal goal: to graduate with a First-Class Honours degree in Mental Health Nursing. "I didn’t need a first to get a job," he said. "But I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it." After years of dedication, he achieved exactly that, earning his nursing registration in an inpatient service for older adults.
Jonathan hopes his story will resonate with others who may doubt their ability, particularly those with ADHD or other learning differences. "The biggest thing that holds people back is fear. Fear of failure, fear of judgment, fear of not being good enough. If you’re thinking about doing it, take the opportunity. You might surprise yourself," he said.
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