Your New ADHD Diagnosis
You’ve talked to your doctor, you’ve done the assessments, you’ve offered up evidence. Finally, your doctor has come back with a diagnosis of ADHD. What happens next?
Well, if you are anything like me, you most likely will breath an immediate sigh of relief as you realize that you aren’t, in fact, crazy, and suddenly everything you’ve ever thought was broken in you makes sense. All those times you were late for class, forgot to do your homework, couldn’t manage to focus one bit on the important history lesson that you were going to be quizzed on, but managed to let the whole world melt away as you hyper focused on that art project are suddenly made valid as you realize that it’s just the way your brain is wired.
But, that sense of relieve may not last as you begin to realize that this isn’t something that you can “fix”. ADHD is a condition that will follow you for the rest of your life. As this thought sets in so does the sense of dread that you are now somehow broken, or less than whole. It feels almost hopeless knowing that no matter what, you are always going to be living with the forgetfulness, loss of time, racing thoughts, brain fog, etc. etc.
But I’m here to tell you that there is room for hope. That sense of dread and hopelessness will pass like a season. So many of us have experienced these same feelings after we got our diagnosis. For me, that sense of hopelessness that I was broken took me down some very dark paths in my head and, as those closest to me will attest, made me very difficult to be around.
Finding Hope and Building a Strategy
But just as the darkness set in, I began to realize that a diagnosis wasn’t the end—it was the beginning. Understanding my ADHD meant I could start figuring out how to work with my brain, rather than against it. There was finally an explanation for my past struggles, which allowed me to let go of some of the self-blame I had carried for years.
It’s true: ADHD doesn’t go away, but it can be managed. This realization shifted my perspective. Instead of trying to "fix" myself, I started to think about how to optimize my environment, routines, and tools to support my strengths and mitigate my challenges.
The Power of Community
One of the most crucial steps in my journey was connecting with others who had similar experiences. Talking with fellow ADHDers, whether through support groups, online forums, or in person, was a game-changer. I found that I wasn’t alone—there were others who understood exactly what I was going through. Sharing our stories, strategies, and even our frustrations made everything feel a little more manageable.
If you're reading this and wondering where to start, I encourage you to seek out communities where you feel seen and heard. We have our Discord community, but that is only one of hundreds of communities on multitudes of platforms. There is something incredibly empowering about being surrounded by people who understand your unique perspective and can offer practical advice.
Professional Support, Therapy, and Coaching
Another crucial part of my journey was finding professional support. For some, medication can be a key part of managing ADHD symptoms effectively. Working closely with a healthcare provider to explore options can be incredibly helpful. But medication is only one piece of the puzzle.
I also found therapy and coaching to be immensely beneficial. ADHD coaching focuses on developing personalized strategies that help with organization, time management, and accountability. It was through coaching that I discovered many of the tools and techniques I still use today, such as time blocking, visual reminders, and setting achievable goals.
Embracing Your ADHD Strengths
ADHD isn't just about challenges; it comes with strengths, too. People with ADHD often possess unique qualities like creativity, problem-solving abilities, and a strong sense of empathy. These traits can be powerful assets, both personally and professionally. The key is to acknowledge and nurture them, rather than trying to suppress them.
For example, hyperfocus—often viewed as a downside—can be incredibly useful when channeled toward something meaningful. I’ve used it to create art, develop new skills, and even start my own ADHD coaching business. It’s all about finding what makes you tick and leaning into it.
Moving Forward
If there’s one message I want to leave you with, it’s that ADHD is not a sentence—it’s an opportunity for growth and self-awareness. Yes, there will be bad days, but there will also be breakthroughs, laughter, and a deeper understanding of who you are.
So, take it one step at a time. Give yourself grace on the tough days, celebrate the small victories, and remember: you’re not alone on this journey. The road ahead might be winding, but it’s filled with potential.
If you enjoyed this article, or if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me by commenting below, emailing me at Braden@EmpowerADHDSolutions.com, or come join our Discord server, where you can talk to me directly and see the many other resources we have available. Also, be sure to check out the many other resources on our website, https://EmpowerADHDSolutions.com
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