The truth about not getting diagnosed until later in life as a female with ADHD.
30 years old. Thats how old I was when I finally got a provider to test me. When I received that diagnosis, a sense of relief washed over me. I had finally did it. I finally got someone to test me…..and I was right all along.
If you, or someone you know, is thinking about being tested for ADHD. I strongly encourage it. If you have just been diagnosed, prepare for a whirlwind of emotions. You will feel happy, sad, and mad over the coming months as you begin to understand the why’s behind everything that’s ever happened to you.
At first, you will feel joy. Finally, you understand why you do the things that you do. You will feel like you have found your place in this world. You might even feel hopeful that maybe now things will be different with that one family member in your life who you’ve always felt looks down upon you because you know why you did the impulsive thing now. You can explain it to them and help them understand so there is no more disagreements.
You will start reading books on ADHD. Watching videos about ADHD. You will become consumed in all things ADHD because, well, it’s fascinating to learn about yourself. All of these things you never knew about yourself are suddenly coming to light. Its exciting…
…..until it’s not.
One day, you will have the realization of what you could have had if you only knew you were ADHD earlier in life. If you only would’ve gotten the help you needed.
Maybe you would have finished high school. Gone to college. Become a Doctor or a Lawyer.
Maybe you could have been better with your money and not have had to file bankruptcy at 23.
Maybe you would’ve been an entrepreneur. Or started a nonprofit helping people or animals.
You will feel angry at the people who said “if you only just applied yourself” not realizing that you were and that the system was just broken for people like you.
You will realize that it went undiagnosed because little girls are constantly forced to be more proper than young boys, constantly being told to “act like a lady.” Meanwhile, their male counterparts are being obnoxious brats and no one is batting an eye. Boys will be boys, right?
You will feel frustrated when you try to explain that ADHD was the reason why you did the thing that you did and the person you are explaining it to tells you that isn’t an excuse. It’s not an excuse, it’s the reason.
The “just do it” comments will become increasingly annoying when you are avoiding a task due to your executive dysfunction.
What once was exciting, is now just constant reminders of the things you missed out on and trying to change the course of your life before it’s too late.
So, if you are just joining us, welcome to the club. We don’t meet on Tuesday’s because we have no idea what day it is and even if we did, we would’ve forgot all about the meeting anyways. However, you will recognize your own kind quickly in people. Cling tight to those people. They get it.
And don’t forget, make yourself a priority. Your mental health matters so don’t be afraid of reaching out to a licensed mental health provider to talk about your frustrations through this journey.
If you are looking for some free ways to learn more about managing your ADHD, check out my other articles:
10 Resources for Individuals with Late Diagnosed ADHD
Check out these 8 Free resources for individuals who have, or think they might have ADHD and 2 that are worth spending…reddsadventure.medium.com
5 More Free Resources for Individuals with Late Diagnosed ADHD
Free resources for individuals with Late Diagnosed ADHD.reddsadventure.medium.com
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