A long list of missed deadlines, events of the day going haywire, endless catching up to do with the chores, walls of hopelessness closing in around you - the struggles of your ADHD are real (and extremely overwhelming).
So, naturally, intense tides of ADHD feelings - anger, anxiety, shame - are often inextricably linked with an ADHD brain. Being consistently labelled as “irresponsible” or “lazy” because of the ADHD symptoms can make you feel inadequate (or even broken).
“ADHD is not a disorder of not knowing what to do, but of not doing what you know." ~Dr. Russel Barkley
On the bright side, however, being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can open many doors to get your life and work in control.
The ADHD Loop of Symptoms and Effects
If you’ve only just discovered you have ADHD, chances are, you’ve endured the ADHD feelings for many years. The most common ADHD symptoms include:
· Impaired response inhibition, impulse control, or the capacity to delay gratification. This is most commonly seen in an individual’s inability to stop and think before acting.
· Excessive task-irrelevant activities; individuals are often seen as fidgety, restless, and “on the go”.
· Poorly sustained attention to or persistence in effort to tasks – most commonly seen when tasks are found mundane or boring by the individual.
These undiagnosed symptoms can lead to:
· Work difficulties and financial problems
· Mental and physical health problems
· Relationship problems
The Power of ADHD Diagnosis In Adults
Being diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood can be shocking and emotionally taxing. This reaction is natural because, historically, people have only talked about the challenges of ADHD. However, once you accept your condition, the positive aspects of your ADHD brain start to open up.
Hyper-focus, for example, is an incredible ADHD phenomenon that helps you with intense, deep, and uninterrupted focus on interests or activities for long hours. It can be a game-changer if harnessed correctly, enabling you to accomplish challenging personal goals.
It’s time to focus less on your weakness, be more aware of your symptoms, and embrace your condition. Getting an external support system in the form of an ADHD coach would be a great way to set your path straight for a thriving future. To kickstart your empowering journey ahead, schedule a free consultation with me today!
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