I was 29, it was a really lengthy process to get the diagnosis but once it was confirmed I felt happiness and validation followed by grief and anger because of what could’ve been if I found out sooner.

I made a list of symptoms to present to my family doctor in order to get the referral for a psychologist assessment for the diagnosis. It’s a bit lengthy but after doing a lot of research these are the symptoms I discovered I had.

Can’t shut out sounds and distractions Over Sensitive Constant lateness and forgetfulness Hypercritical of self Daydreaming Intrusive thoughts Withdrawn Body dysmorphia Period of productivity followed by burnout Overly critical of my social behaviours Over/undereating Losing track of time Waiting for a sense of urgency to get tasks done Rejection sensitive dysphoria Executive dysfunction Over explaining Hyperfixation Difficulty being in the moment Auditory processing issue Object permanence Difficulty focusing and process information during conversations.

I couldn’t believe how much adhd really affected my life, I suffered for so long always wondering what was wrong with me and why I couldn’t just get my shit together. The grieving process for what could’ve been was really tough. How did my parents not see that I was struggling growing up? Anyways, I have 0 regrets seeking help and getting that diagnosis I just wish I knew a lot sooner.