Personalized ADHD Support
I help young adults develop sustainable systems of change so they can improve their quality of life.
The ADHD Spectrum
What does it look like?
When the word "spectrum" is used in relation to ADHD or Autism, I have discovered many people will assume it is a linear graph showing that someone is more or less "on the spectrum." This can lead to many beliefs that are potentially harmful to the understanding of what it means to be ADHD or Autistic. Phrases like "everyone is a little ADHD" or "You must not be *that* Autistic" misrepresents our experience as an ADHD or Autistic person.
My ADHD Experience: The graph to the right is a great visual representation of the ADHD Spectrum. In fact, it represents my own experience as an ADHD person. I am also diagnosed Autistic, which adds a whole separate layer of needs that I have to meet, but we will focus on my ADHD diagnosis.
As you can see, developmental and hyperactivity are lower on the spectrum for me, but I do still have some presentations in both areas. Outwardly I would not present like a "stereotypical" ADHD person, and it is partly why I went most of my life without a diagnosis. Not everyone is going to be physically hyperactive, but where I am hyperactive is mentally. Without proper support and care, I can easily get distracted, I'm lost in thoughts going a mile a minute, I can be impulsive in my behavior, and I do often struggle to recall information or memories. Understanding this and doing extensive research and education, has been paramount in my ability to take care of myself and support my own needs.
With Coaching: I can help you or your loved ones learn how to properly address their needs in a way that will improve their overall quality of life. Not only can I relate to the experience and struggles, but I can also teach you the best methods to help yourself.
The Late Diagnosed Expereince
The First Step, Getting Diagnosed.
Even if you are fortunate enough to have access to mental health care, the path to getting an official diagnosis can still be a long and challenging experience. It takes learning and understanding what experiences you relate to and how they affect your day-to-day life, being able to communicate that to your medical health professional, and advocating for yourself to get the correct diagnosis. All too often people are misdiagnosed because they do not have the proper support and knowledge to get the right care that they need. Often, we need to resort to diagnosing ourselves first before we can get professional support. While there are potential dangers to self-diagnosis, if it is done correctly with the desire to learn and understand, it can be a great start to building the foundation to better yourself.
As a coach, I can't diagnose you. However, I can help you build the resources to communicate to professionals about your needs, and the tools to start supporting yourself.
I can act as a guide wherever you are on your journey. If you're just getting started, self-diagnosed, seeking a diagnosis, or have already been diagnosed, I can help you move towards whatever goals you have.
Why Get Diagnosed So Late?
Many people struggle with the idea of getting diagnosed at all, especially late in life. They feel like it might be "too late" for them and that it's not worth the effort. Ultimately it is your choice whether or not you want to get a professional diagnosis. I will say that it is never too late to start improving your life. No matter your age, you can learn and accomplish whatever you desire. Even if you are not seeking medication, here are a few reasons why getting a diagnosis can be beneficial.
1. Validation: It is confirmation that you were right about yourself. That you are not crazy, lazy, or lacking motivation or passion, and it relieves you of the thought that you are broken.
2. Answers & understanding: It is a pathway to knowing yourself more and learning to accept your own mind. You can build empathy towards yourself and others to help you find peace.
3. Proper Support: Not only will you have access to medication if you need it, but you will be able to develop the proper skills, tools, and communication methods to access the support services you may need for yourself.
Note: Not everyone has the means to get a diagnosis and has to rely on self-diagnosing to support themselves. This is valid and getting a diagnosis is only a confirmation, not necessary to understand your needs.
What Comes After?
There can be a lot of emotions when it comes to finally getting diagnosed after living your life for so long without answers. Most commonly people tend to feel relief, sadness, anger, and even a loss of one's own identity. It's perfectly ok to not know how to move forward and to process whatever emotion you are feeling. Many grieve the life that could have been had they had support sooner, others get angry at the people in their lives for not noticing their struggle, and many struggle internally to accept that they need any support at all and feel like an imposter.
In the end, the relief we feel when we are able to finally accept that we need help is life-changing. You don't have to struggle alone. I can help you work through the process of discovering the new you.
The Path Forward
Get to know the new and authentic you. Find security in yourself and build confidence where you struggled before. Develop stronger and healthier relationships with people that accept you for who you are. Be you that you've always wanted to be.
If you are willing to put in the effort, time, and commitment to make changes in your life, then I am the coach for you. This isn't an easy thing to do, and there might be some resistance to the change, but I will keep you moving forward so you can reach the level of happiness you want to achieve.
If you are a late-diagnosed professional adult, a newly diagnosed parent with children, or someone in a relationship with an ADHD/Autistic person, I can help you.
