It was a combination of really struggling during driving lessons, becoming overwhelmed frequently after having a baby and then learning more about ADHD just by chance via social media!
School was really difficult for me. In terms of grades, I did well, but having to sit still in a class and listen felt impossible and I relied heavily on 'cramming' the night before exams.
A messy bedroom and the inability to stop talking!
The wait time for a referral was 3 years via my GP, so I opted for a private assessment, which was expensive but quick and simple.
I actually prepared myself more to be told I don't have ADHD. I'd done so much research and was convinced myself by that point I had ADHD. I'd already put various ADHD-related self help techniques into place that were helping me manage day to day. I reminded myself that I could continue with those regardless of the diagnosis result.
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Strange, with a splash of imposter syndrome. I had a strong sense of feeling like... 'maybe I exaggerated things'.
I'm in a really good place. Getting a diagnosis hasn't changed anything about who I am, I just have a better idea of what I'm working with now.
No. Maybe. Self-awareness isn't my strong suit, so I honestly don't know.
Sensory overload is still the area I struggle with despite treatment.
I'm creative, enthusiastic, empathetic and spontaneous!
It was life changing for me. It's not an exaggeration to say that every area of my life has improved post-diagnosis.
Yes. Of course things could have been different, particularly in terms of my education and career, but I'm in a great place now so I try not to look at the what-ifs.
My friends and family have all been super supportive throughout the process.
No.
I did suffer with post-natal anxiety after the birth of my son, but looking back I think I was completely overwhelmed and a lot of that was sensory related. If I do ever feel like that, 5 minutes quiet time outside is all I really need for a quick reset.
I did have a few comments along the lines of 'you obviously just have it mildly', 'why does everything need a label' or 'everyone gets that' ... but these weren't from the people closest to me, so it didn't really matter!
Yes, there's still a weird creeping feeling that I've tricked the doctors!
Learning about time-blindness, object permanence and sensory overload helped me so much. It meant I could make adjustments to my surroundings, how I manage my time, schedule etc.
Wonderful!
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