My ADHD Diagnosis Journey: From Self-Discovery to Acceptance

Hoy!

When you hear the word "journey," you might imagine far-off lands, epic adventures, or incredible tales of self-discovery.

But the journey I want to share with you today is one that took place within the confines of my own mind, yet it's been just as life-changing as any epic quest.

This journey is my personal exploration of living with ADHD, from self-discovery to acceptance.

Background and Self-Discovery

Growing up, I knew I was different. While I excelled academically, I was practically socially clumsy. Interacting with people often left me feeling anxious, and I struggled to fit in. I was the quiet one in social gatherings, the observer on the sidelines. Yet, within the comfort of my home, I was a whirlwind of quirkiness and energy.

At work, I encountered new challenges. My struggles began to affect my performance, and I had to find ways to cope. I masked my symptoms as best as I could, often isolating myself to avoid drawing attention to my quirks. I attributed my challenges to my personality, believing that I was just wired a bit differently.

Pandemic and Breaking Point

Then came the pandemic, a time that tested the resilience of people around the world. My family was hit hard by the virus, and I watched as we all struggled to recover. On top of that, several business deals fell through, and I had to say goodbye to my beloved dog, who had lost his battle with cancer.

The weight of these challenges took a toll on me. It became difficult to bounce back, and I felt like I had lost my sense of direction. I questioned why things were no longer working for me and why my focus and motivation were dwindling.

During this turbulent time, I became involved in a business focused on mental health services. It was here that I began to gain a deeper understanding of mental health and its complexities, and that included ADHD.

Decision to Seek Help

As the challenges continued to mount, I realized that something was holding me back. It was a nagging feeling that wouldn't go away. I had always suspected that I might have ADHD, but I dismissed it, attributing my difficulties to personality traits.

The pandemic, coupled with my involvement in the mental health industry, prompted me to take a closer look at myself. I started reading and studying about ADHD, a disorder I had been curious about for years. I decided to retake the online assessments, and this time, the results were different. They hinted at something I had suspected all along.

I decided to take the plunge and consult a professional to confirm my suspicions. I initially consulted a psychologist, hoping to find answers. However, I was met with dismissal. But I didn't give up. I sought out a psychiatrist who specialized in ADHD, and he provided the diagnosis I had been seeking.

Emotional Impact

The moment I received the ADHD diagnosis from the psychiatrist was a whirlwind of emotions. I felt happiness, relief, and validation. Finally, I had confirmation that what I had suspected for years was indeed true. But, intertwined with those positive feelings was a tinge of sadness.

I couldn't help but think about the missed opportunities and the "what ifs." What if I had sought help earlier? What if I had been more aware of ADHD? These questions loomed in my mind.

Managing ADHD: Medication and Counseling

With the diagnosis in hand, I embarked on the journey to manage my ADHD. I chose the medication route to address my primary concerns: lack of focus, attention, and motivation, which were affecting my work. I was prescribed stimulants and began a series of monthly consultations with my doctor to determine the correct medication and dosage for me.

The impact of medication was profound. It helped me improve my focus, motivation, and attention. It indirectly managed other symptoms, including my anxiety. It was as though I had been given a key to unlock my potential, and the possibilities seemed endless.

To complement the medication, I also joined group counseling sessions. These sessions offered a fresh perspective, and I began to see my journey with ADHD from different angles.

Personal and Professional Transformation

Managing my ADHD with medication and counseling brought about significant changes in my life. On a personal level, I found myself becoming more patient and understanding. I also became more perceptive of situations and was better equipped to navigate social interactions. My journey had not only improved my own mental health but also given me a new lens through which to view the world of mental health.

Professionally, I experienced a transformation as well. With improved focus, I could work longer hours and complete tasks with greater efficiency. The challenges that once seemed insurmountable became manageable, and I felt more in control of my work.

Advice for Others

My journey has taught me several valuable lessons, and I'd like to share some advice for those who might be on a similar path:

Accept your diagnosis: Your condition is a part of you. It may not
define you entirely, but accepting it can bring a sense of freedom and
liberation.

Seek support: Talk to professionals, connect with others who are on a
similar journey, and find a support group within your circle.

Be open to options: Everyone's journey with ADHD is unique. Be open
to exploring different strategies and finding what works best for you.

Positive Aspects of ADHD

One of the most surprising aspects of my journey has been discovering the positive
aspects and unique strengths that come with ADHD. These include:

Hyperfocus: I can dive into specific topics I'm passionate about and
work continuously for hours.

Creativity: My out-of-the-box thinking has earned me recognition for
my unique ideas.

Communication Skills: I can talk and engage effectively, whether
hosting videos or events.

Perceptiveness: I have a heightened awareness of situations, providing
me with a unique edge at times.

Creating "My ADHD Brain PH"

This journey, marked by personal growth and self-discovery, led me to create "My ADHD Brain PH." It's a platform where I can share my experiences, insights, and knowledge about ADHD and mental health in the Philippines.

I've met countless individuals who are struggling with their mental health, not just with ADHD but with various conditions. This journey prompted me to become a mental health coach, acquire more knowledge, and gain new perspectives. I've witnessed firsthand that the Philippines still has a long way to go in addressing ADHD and mental health concerns.

I consider this mission and advocacy to be deeply personal. It provides direction to my life, and I'm determined to make a positive impact in my community.

Hopes and Goals

My hopes and goals for "My ADHD Brain PH" are straightforward: educate, raise awareness, find my tribe, help people, and provide a sense of direction. I aim to create an environment where individuals can feel understood, supported, and empowered.

But it's not just about providing information and resources; it's about building a community. I want "My ADHD Brain PH" to be a place where people can engage, share their experiences, and learn from one another. I have also extended my reach through YouTube and podcasts, where I can share even more valuable content and insights.

My ADHD diagnosis journey has been a path of self-discovery, personal growth, and transformation. It has led me to create "My ADHD Brain PH" and embark on a mission to educate, raise awareness, and provide support in the Philippines.

My journey is far from over, and I'm excited to have you as part of this community.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and learn about my journey with ADHD.

I look forward to the discussions, connections, and positive changes that "My ADHD Brain PH" will bring to our lives.