What Comes After Your ADHD Diagnosis?
Written by Cynthia Hammer, MSW
—Realize that nothing has changed with an ADHD diagnosis. You have a name for what has always been there.
—Expect to be relieved and sad after your diagnosis. Relieved to know something is the matter; and sad to learn something is the matter and it wasn't recognized earlier.
—Learn about ADHD—what it is and what it isn't—resources include books, ADHD magazines, reputable internet sites, conferences, and support groups.
—Have people in your immediate circle learn about ADHD along with you.
—Have faith that you will improve. Getting your ADHD diagnosis is a positive, helpful step in building a better life for yourself.
—Forgive yourself for your past failings.
—Focus on learning and taking steps to make your future better.
—Acquiring new habits and changing behaviors takes time.
—Accept that improvements come slowly. Go easy on yourself. Rome wasn't built in a day.
—Celebrate each new habit or improved behavior. They are milestones.
—Share ideas and concerns with others who have ADHD, in person or online in Facebook groups, and at r/adhd.
—Make one or two friends with ADHD to talk to about your experiences.
—Become comfortable telling people, in a simple, non-aggressive, way that you have ADHD. When it is no big deal to you, it will be no big deal to them.
—Find ways to describe, in simple terms, how ADHD negatively and positively impacts your life.
—Learn to laugh at your ADHD-moments
—If unable to accomplish these "To Do" items, seek the assistance of an ADHD therapist or coach.