Was it adhd burnout all this time?

[Blackbeauty84]

Not sure to put this post in ND or in mental health so will put here for now.

Have battled with my mental health for years. At the moment it’s at an all time high. As past couple of years I’ve realised it could be adhd which I’m getting tested for very soon. I’ve looked at adhd burnout symptoms and I think it is what I am experiencing. I’ve tested out anti depressants which have not worked.

To be honest all I want to hear some positive stories on how a adhd diagnosis has helped turn your life around? With or without medication. I can’t go on feeling like this, at times I’d rather not be here at all.

My personal experience with diagnosis is that it has opened up a huge well of self compassion for me. The pressure of trying to navigate neurotypical norms, and mask while feeling like a broken and defective human played a huge part in my mental health issues. One of my primary motivational strategies had been horrible self talk and anger.

I don’t want to claim any miracles or give the impression that I have it all together. I very much don’t. But I’m much more realistic about my abilities and limits. I’m learning better systems, and giving myself permission to step outside norms and find something that fits/works/feels better. The understanding is life changing.

But I also find I’m much more aware of issues that I either suppressed or gaslighted before, and masking can be harder. Unmasking isn’t easy either.

I haven’t had much success with meds (yet 🤞🏻) but from talking to people irl, the meds can only take you so far and you still need to work out systems, strategies and limits. I guess I’d sum up the difference as learning to live well as a neurodivergent person instead of trying to be more neurotypical.

Acceptance. Knowing I am not broken. Meds help about 30% but also increase sensory sensitivity. More self compassion. I found it really helpful to read / listen to books and podcasts on ADHD, lots on Amazon, and try and adopt some strategies. It's slow but I feel 1000% better.

@Theothername

I am glad you found self compassion. I would like a diagnosis to ease off on myself. I’m feeling extremely low at the moment, I think a diagnosis will help me to feel same as you. I just am so lost.

@2024horizons Could you plz share which podcasts help? I have bought books but can’t even concentrate to read them properly even though I desperately want to. My brain is never quiet. I just want peace