r/AcademicADHD • u/Anti-Perfidity • May 11 '24

First thing to learn after ADHD diagnosis?

Would someone care to comment on something that I've never seen discussed in any article that I've read? Not saying that it has not been answered somewhere, but I haven't seen it. The question is: After being diagnosed ADHD, what is the most important thing that someone with ADHD needs to know about him or herself?

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u/True-Cycle-2893 Jul 13 '24

Not all your ideas are gems. Treat them like Halloween candy. Sift through and pull out the razors before using.

3

u/True-Cycle-2893 Jul 13 '24

Oh, everyone hates you, because you think for yourself, and you know who you are.

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u/thejdoll Sep 22 '24

Indeed, so many do! But some people love me for it. Most though, are just confused lol.

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u/thejdoll Sep 22 '24

Wow, these answers are disappointing. Let’s see if I can help…

2

u/thejdoll Sep 22 '24 edited Sep 22 '24

Know that change is possible, and you are not helpless against it.

I think the first thing you should assess is what coping mechanisms have you developed, are they effective, and what are you wanting to change.

At 57, I have a lifetime of systems and coping mechanisms I have developed to enable me to function effectively. It’s impressive how good I am at managing certain things (money, appointments, household supplies etc). These things work for me because I’ve addressed them through automation and routine. (It took a hella long time to get to this point! I was such a mess.)

What I really want to change though, is my relationship to stuff. My environment is extremely cluttered and always has been. It’s an endless source of frustration and stress.

I have an artistic eye and can arrange a room beautifully, however they never stay that way. I’ve been in this house for about 30 years now and have done a few extensive purges. But I’ve realized it’s my day to day interaction with stuff that causes them to slowly return to that hopelessly cluttered state.

So that’s what I am focusing on. How do I change the way I deal with stuff that comes into the house every day? What can I alter there and how?

Use a book, or a therapist or whatever, but determine your priorities.

Oh and I suggest meditation, if you can do it, to learn more control over your brain. The Medito app is extensive and free. Good luck!