My ADHD diagnosis started 3 years ago when I began enriching my professional life and stabilizing my personal life. I read “A Radical Guide for Women with ADHD” and eventually made the ADHD connection to myself. I spent the next 3 years learning more, evaluating my behaviors, habits, patterns, and reactions. I incorporated various ADHD strategies, yoga, meditation, and CBT without seeking a formal diagnosis, until I recognized the signs in my child.
After a 3 month wait for an opening, I was able to see the doctor referred by my sibling; he had all the relevant family history, which made the process quick and easy. I am an occupational therapy practitioner, but the education on ADHD did not include my own experience. My early education, social, and family life were considered functional; my siblings had more obvious barriers; ADHD was not suspected.
In highschool the signs were more obvious, but again ADHD was not considered. I was just (insert all negative labels here). I am 41.
Angela Breeland