Diagnosed with combined ADHD Today

[KDHD]

Hi all,

I had my assessment today via right to choose. (With a mind-blowing turn around from referral to appointment, less than a week). I'm late 30s and have been long term treated for anxiety and depression, started thinking about getting my own assessment after recognising so many shared traits with my son who also has ADHD, and increasing overwhelm with general life.

The clinician diagnosed combined ADHD (same as ds) and has written a prescription for methylphenidate which I'm waiting to collect. I don't feel any different but maybe a little validated? Family have said it doesn't change who I am (supportively) and I know that, but I've said I'm hoping it might change how I feel on the inside.

Just wondering if anyone wanted to share their own expenses post late diagnosis, anything that helped any difference made or medication journey?

I think it's completely normal not to feel dramatically different after a diagnosis, but that sense of validation can be really powerful.
From what I've read from others, one of the biggest benefits is finally understanding why certain things have always felt harder than they seem to for other people. Many people say it helps them be kinder to themselves and stop blaming themselves for things that were never simply down to lack of effort.
I'd also try not to put too much pressure on the medication straight away. Finding the right dose can take time, and everyone's experience is different.
Wishing you all the best with the next stage of your journey.

I think "validated" is exactly the word many people use after a late diagnosis. It doesn't change who you are, but it can help make sense of years of feeling different or struggling with things that seemed easier for everyone else. I hope the medication works well for you, but even if it takes a bit of time to find the right balance, having some answers can be a huge relief in itself.

I was diagnosed with AUHD in my late 50's last year. I have inattentive ADHD and my husband was diagnosed with autism and combined ADHD at the same time. The last year has been tough. We both felt elated and relieved initially, but my husband is now struggling, despite being really successful and well thought of in his career field.

I haven't worked since having my son who has complex needs, so it has been a little easier for me to find the time and space to have counselling and to look for resources and strategies.

The diagnosis has made a world of sense with regard to my struggles in education and the workplace. I bombed in most of my O levels, despite promising predictions. I never really found my niche, but have found ways to be useful and help others. All of the labels, lazy, messy, highly strung, unpredictable make sense and I am finally on the path to better mental and physical health.