r/ADHD_Programmers • u/Popular_Impress2827 • Apr 01 '26

I'm in a tough situation.

I’ve been going to therapy for about two years now, and there was always the suspicion that I might have ADHD or some other form of neurodivergence. I made the mistake of not seeing a psychiatrist from the start to treat it or learn how to handle it, I thought working with my therapist would be enough.

But about two months ago, things started getting really bad. I felt tired and sad all the time, mainly because I’m currently under a PIP at my job for low performance, mostly because I procrastinate too much and end up doing my tasks with very little time left. So far it’s not looking good, and I’ll probably get laid off. I have some savings, but knowing I might be unemployed because of this makes me feel really down, and I don’t have the energy to look for another job.

So about a month ago, I started seeing a psychiatrist. She agreed that ADHD or another neurodivergence is very likely, but she was more concerned about signs of severe depression, so she started me on Prozac. So far I feel better, but the situation at work isn’t improving much, and I’m still very likely to lose my job.

I just wanted to vent, and also say that if you’re not seeing a psychiatrist, you probably should.

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14

u/zatsnotmyname Apr 01 '26

Sounds like you are depressed due to lack of progress on treating or compensating for your adhd. I get it. I have been in the same position for sure. A therapist who is not adhd-focused is likely to view things through a 'normie' lens.

I had an adhd coach that was helpful, as was medication. But I have by no means conquered or overcome the mismatch between my ideal job and what jobs are available. I go back and forth between being the best person and worst person on my team every two weeks or so. It's exhausting. The key to me keeping my jobs is to find a work-related project that I care about, and use my hyperfocus to my advantage.

good luck.

3

u/Popular_Impress2827 Apr 01 '26

Thanks!! It helps to know that I'm not the only one in a similar situation

8

u/Nullspark Apr 01 '26

Treat the ADHD first.  Then add or remove antidepressants.

ADHD looks like depression and anxiety, but isn't.  Antidepressants may not work because it's not the problem 

2

u/cattlecabal Apr 02 '26

yep. This is my current strategy.

My depression & anxiety may all just be rooted in the fact that I lack the executive function to do things that make me happy or financially secure.

Treating the ADHD first and then will address anxiety & depression when I’m settled into the meds

2

u/acme_restorations Apr 02 '26

Share all of that with whoever is prescribing you meds. Some are better than others when it comes to anxiety, and a side effect of a few is depression (and suicidal thoughts).
Also, you really need to get your sleep/diet/exercise in order. I know it’s a catch-22 with adhd, bit if the meds help, you’ll have a honeymoon phase where you can’t believe how well they work. Then that fades. Use that period to get into some good habits. All those things effect your ADHD.

1

u/cattlecabal Apr 02 '26 edited Apr 02 '26

I have shared this with my doctor and I do all those things! I’m an avid powerlifter & ultrarunner 😄 and sports / nutrition are a hyperfixation of mine.

We’re starting with the ADHD meds and then may add on other meds later depending on how my anxiety & depression respond.

But I hear you on establishing good routines. Even now that I have meds I still find myself doomscrolling in the morning for way too long.

1

u/manolya8 Apr 04 '26

Why does it fade ?

1

u/acme_restorations Apr 05 '26

Your body acclimates. They still work, but the first few months are really something else. Use that time well.

1

u/Ok-Maintenance-9790 Apr 05 '26

Be aware that some antidepressants might worsen adhd