What’s it Like to Live with ADHD?
Today we bring you an excerpt of an interview with one of our coaching clients who has ADHD. We’ll call him John to protect his privacy. John is in his late 50s and works in a professional corporate environment.
When did you find out you had ADHD? How did you feel about getting the diagnosis?
I was 32 and had no idea what it was so researched in the library. It explained quite a bit, things started to make sense. I had regrets about lost opportunities and what might have been. I was hopeful of change, then realised it was genetic so only so much could be done.
What are your main symptoms?
Distractibility, emotional sensitivity, and managing my emotions.
How does ADHD influence your life the most?
Relationships – altercations, loss of friendships, feel disconnected, unwilling to invest in relationships because I feel they’ll inevitably fail.
Work and career – lack of satisfaction and impulsiveness means I’ll leave a job when I get frustrated or bored.What is the hardest thing about having ADHD?
The loneliness of feeling no one would understand and only judge me (lazy, undisciplined, etc).
Do your friends and colleagues know you have ADHD?
Very few. Only one colleague who also has ADHD. I don’t want to be judged as I was when I told people I was dyslexic.
How have you been managing your ADHD?
Initially I went on medication and that helped. But I got depressed and stopped, thinking they were the cause (they weren’t). I’m now trying new medications with proper psychiatric and coaching support.
What positives are you aware of from having ADHD?
I take risks. I’ve developed powerful tools to help. I have creativity and different perspectives.
What advice would you give someone who thinks they may have ADHD
Find out as much as you can. Seek professional help. Don't suffer any longer.
What’s your story?
If you’d like to share it, we’d love to hear it.
