I think I’m Dying – 2025 Adelaide Fringe Review
Maddy Warren stands in a spotlight, on a stage, in an intimate venue, and takes the very
brave step of telling her ADHD story for the first time.
I Think I’m Dying begins with a scene of Maddy trying to pack her suitcase to travel to
London. We see some of the common tropes of ADHD in adulthood – the washing still wet in
the machine, the distraction and moving from one task to another without getting anything
done. It gives us a glimpse into Maddy’s life before she begins the story.
I Think I’m Dying takes us on a 50-minute rollercoaster ride from childhood to adulthood,
through primary and high school, attempts at university, an overseas adventure, and back
‘home’ looking for jobs, a partner, and a life direction. Maddy takes us deep into her most
vulnerable places with a rawness that is palpable.
Maddy shares stories of school punishments and endless teacher interviews, stories of
parent frustration while trying to understand their child, and stories of a person who is trying
to understand who they are and why they don’t fit in. We hear of some of the challenges of
living with undiagnosed ADHD – challenges that are not often shared due to shame,
confusion, and not wanting to be a burden. We go with her to a psychiatrist’s office in her
teen years, and then again as an adult (experiencing two very different approaches by these
professionals) and in these visits, we learn how attitudes and management of ADHD have
changed in 20 years. She takes us through her isolation, anxiety, panic, and insecurity, but
also the ability to self-manage all of this and travel to London. Maddy bares all.
Maddy is an absolute delight, a born storyteller. She held the audience by the hand, leading
us into her grief and on the brink of tears, and then bringing us back to laughter with a well-
timed moment of light heartedness.
I Think I’m Dying is poignant, and inspiring and offers an authentic insight into living with
ADHD. It is a balm for those who are trying to find their place in this world but don’t quite fit –
an experience that validates the uncertainty and turmoil – and a conversation starter for
those who are trying to understand neurodivergence.
Highly recommended. Five stars.
