I wasn't diagnosed with ADHD until I was at university.
My parents didn’t take the news well. My mother felt that my ADHD diagnosis was a criticism of her. My father said that I was lazy and looking for quick fixes. Even my friends were dismissive – one said that I was “too smart to have ADHD and it must be something else”.
I was really discouraged and went back to see the mental health counsellor. My counsellor helped me with so many things. First of all, how to make sense of my diagnosis, how to talk to my doctor about medication options. Second, how to create structures for myself. Third, how to improve and sustain motivation (although this one is still a struggle). Fourth, how to explain my diagnosis to friends and family, and how to explain to them what kind of support would be most helpful to me. Fifth, most importantly, how to lean into my strengths and how make good use of my “ADHD superpowers”.
While you wait for your appointment, check the resources section for free and low cost mental health courses, resources, and community connections.
Are you seeking an ADHD assessment? Check out Adult ADHD Centre in Burnaby for the assessment process, or talk to your family doctor.
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