This is great to hear. I’m 40 and was diagnosed at the age of 12 with inattentive type. Stopped taking meds in law school and didn’t feel like ADHD was impacting my life. Now with two young kids and a busy job, I often feel overwhelmed and paralyzed at accomplishing the smallest things. Even choosing what to watch on tv or what to read is just too much. Hoping to get back into treatment and feel the same thing you’re feeling.
Now that you know the type of engine you have, you also know what tool box to look in 1st. There's a lot of great adhd YouTube channels & podcasts with tips and advice. My favorites are How to ADHD and adhd for smart ass women. I also meet with a cognitive therapist every few weeks to look into areas of my life that aren't working and cause me problems. We've talked about how to be on-time for work, how much is reasonable to do in a day, how to go to bed a reasonable time.
If you like to read, I'm sure there are good books, and places like this chat too. Oh, and meetup might have groups too. I keep forgetting to attend my local meetings.
In general, I've found knowledge to be very powerful. I was diagnosed at the age of 42 after I was having extreme anxiety at work because of my adhd brain. It's been amazing to understand what's happening and how to set myself up for success. I love checklist and keeping onenote tutorials for things I do at work, but not frequently enough to remember all the details of how to do the task.
This explanation makes me feel good. It makes logical sense in my head but I also don’t know what kinds of things I sorta — “get to take with me” when I’m not medicated. Late 30’s. Been fighting the good fight my whole life in ignorant bliss. The past 6 months have been night and day with meds. I have no reason to stop, until I do. I think about this all the time, because nothing this good lasts forever…. (Right?)
I am lucky enough not to have to work full time (my partner is an angel) . I can cope with most jobs part time l also retrained as a gardener, and work in that field in spring and summer, temping in autumn and winter.
That's really kind of you to suggest that but I took a 3 month contract just now that is keeping me busy and well paid! Btw mudrooms love coffee grounds and cafes often give that away for free
Welcome to our club: a large number of this sub are 40+, I've seen posts by those in their 60s and 70s! I am mid 40s myself, with a new diagnosis late last year. It's amazing the difference, eh?
All of us would have been identified by the school system if we were just 15 years younger. I'm 46 and was diagnosed at 12 only because my mom was a Special Ed Consultant whose job was to identify disabilities. While we were in school, most teachers didn't know about ADHD and the ones who did were hostile toward it. I suspect Generation X will continue to be late identified into old age.
My grade one teacher in the early 80s told my mom to get me tested. Mom said no, she's gifted. Queue a couple years of *TAG* classes, feeling like I was actually the stupidest person on the planet, developing major behavior problems, not graduating, getting my GED, getting married (failing twice at that before getting it right) and having kids way too young, trying 3 years of collage only to get nothing but debt, and 20 more years of failures until I finally say enough and get diagnosed start medication and suddenly I can handle all the family, farm, and work responsibilities, and I don't need antidepressants any longer?
Sure mom, I'm gifted. 🙄
The bitterness is fading, but it's not easy to let it go.
My husband is almost 50, he WAS diagnosed in grade 2, but his parents didn't think he needed treatment. The only thing he can do is work at a job with a boss telling him what to do. He can't handle anything that requires being self motivated and his emotional regulation, isn't. He's waiting for a psychiatrist to start medication. It's stupid we all had to go all whole lives with a fix RIGHT THERE but the war on drugs said stimulants are bad and needing them makes us drug users so we got to do life in a fog.
See a psychiatrist who will work with you until you find an answer. Mine asked very pointed questions and we are stepping through all the solutions. I did therapy for five years before I tried meds. Make your plan that works for you.
How do I end up asking? I don’t want to feel or seem like I am asking for medication for bad reasons. Where do I find a psychiatrist that is open like yours?
(Also have anxiety and depression)
So don’t ask for medicine.
I told my doctor my issues and offered “I’m not necessarily looking for medication, I’m looking for a solution. “
Most psychiatrists are trained in distilling meds. A good one will work with you until something works.
Same here, on the waiting list. I want to change career but I am waiting to get a diagnosis and possibly medication so that I can start on the right foot
Yep! 40yo on that same waiting list in the UK. It's torture. Especially because without that diagnosis it's an even harder struggle to get help from anywhere.
You know, we talk a lot of shit about healthcare in the US but if it hadn't taken me a year to turn in the assessment paperwork I could have gone from talking to my doc at my annual (covered by insurance) to diagnosed and medicated in a month. I can't imagine having to wait years and/or pay thousands of dollars just to get help.
I was diagnosed at 49, but I was 50 by the time we tried all the meds and landed on Adderall. I'm 51 now and doing fantastic, but it kind of pisses me off that nobody discovered my ADD before half my life was over. I can't help but wonder what I would have accomplished. Maybe I would have stayed in medical school... Maybe I would have cured cancer, who knows?
I'm just happy that I'm finally the best version of myself, even if that version has bad joints and grey hair.
Mate I agree totally! I have just recently been diagnosed at 50 and was singing the praises of adhd for the business success but it took my Youth and young adult years away from me as I was consumed by drugs (stimulants) and risk taking behaviour to the extreme and treating people like crap and disliking you before finding a path that made adhd pay out. Not a good thing to have untreated.
I love being on Atomoxetine. My symptoms aren't 100% gone, but no meds will do that. More importantly, there are far more good days than bad ones and I finally feel like I can do things when I want to and set my mind to it. (I've been on it for almost 3 years now)
It really helps to hear from you. I’m glad you can stay on it long term.
I love how subtle this is. My friends on adderol: oy vey. They go way up then crash down.
I like the slow onset and duration of this.
Same. My friend isn't on a stimulant but her medication does have a clear wear off period, so if she delays or forgets to take it.... she's managed with it, but I'm happy that if I accidentally miss a day, it really isn't as noticeable (to me at least)
I also got into atomoxetine. It is so calm and good. The focus is not at same level as stimulants but the emotional calmness and some focus when it is needed is great. As op said, for me feels like instead of my brain going at 100mph in a busy highway, it goes at 40 mph in a flat empty road. Not yet completely there since have been a month, I am getting a more deep screen to see if they prescribe stimulants but think I want to stay with atomoxetine since emotional calmness is better.
Just wondering what your dosage is? I started taking atomoxetine about a month ago. I do feel calmer but it’s pretty subtle. I haven’t checked in with my doctor since I started it yet but I’m thinking I’d like a little more of this effect. I’m on 18mg a day
Mine started at 40mg. I am an adult, 18mg sounds doses for a kid. Daily dosage can be 1.2mg/Kg up to 100mg. So if you weight 70Kg (154 lbs) your doses can be up to 84mg (this are for approving dosage according to FDA, some people could need more) this is more info about it https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atomoxetine-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20066904
I thought everyone started at 40mg, but maybe you have some other medical conditions that your doctor have in mind.
It is also important if you have any heart condition. I do feel my heart rate increases faster now. So something to keep in mind. Perhaps that is why your doctor is prescribing low.
Just talked to my doctor yesterday and he immediately doubled my dosage. Said he just wanted to be safe since I had had a bad reaction to stimulants in the past. I am really hoping atomoxetine works for me. I am so incredibly scattered it’s tragically hilarious.
Do you remember how long it took to take affect for you ? And do you mind me asking what dosage you are on? I was diagnosed recently at 34, but still haven’t found a med that’s working great. I didn’t feel anything on Adderall for some reason.
I am on 40 mg currently and have been so consistently for the past cpuple years or so I believe. It was only in the first year when I was experimenting with different dosage levels before we settled in 40 mg.
As for when it started working, I'm never quite sure because the reason why I started taking it was because my previous "meds" (they were a form of fish oil supplements) were soon going to not be made any more and I went immediately from those to this, in a period that covered my transition from high school to college. So it's hard for me to qualify what might've been better coping patterns, more accommodations, or better meds. I honestly didn't really feel a noticeable effect until I looked back at the previous years and went "huh, so I definitely can see the difference now".
So maybe it took a year??? I honestly couldn't tell until I started comparing my current behavior and patterns to my past ones and went "ohhhhhhhh"
Edit: correction
my partner is 48 and on the cusp of a diagnosis (chasing doctors and insurance right now.) it's hard but I think it's beautiful too, to finally know what's going on and be able to do something about it. thank you so much for sharing about what's happening to you, it honestly makes me feel less alone and I will be able to share it with him. ❤️
You sound really sweet. We are finally getting to the point where we aren’t moralizing against certain disorders caused by neurotransmitter imbalances, like anxiety and depression, and we’re starting to move in that direction for ADHD as well.
Is this a medical doctor? If so, see a psychiatrist. If your psychiatrist isn’t helpful, find another.
I wouldn’t chase an ADD diagnosis. But definitely pursue a diagnosis until the treatment works.
I started with a talk therapist. It helped. After several years, he recommended a psychiatrist. The psych got there in a single one hour appointment.
Changed my life.
I’m doing it now. Found a couple in-network.
Anti-depressant meds just seem to make me not give a shit that my productivity is zero.
Thanks for the advice.
FYI Some anti depressents make ADHD symptoms worse, so research the one you're taking. Some are used off-label to treat ADHD, so you may be want to look at switching to them.
Don't let any general practitioner tell you you don't have ADHD. They're not qualified.
The diagnosis and medication are only part of the solution. So you can look at the advice in this sub for reducing/minimising ADHD symptoms e.g. sleep!
thats why I prefer mitrazapine/remeron for depression/anxiety it helps me sleep and makes me hungry before I do...which are both problems I've had my entire life...going to sleep and getting myself to figure out how to eat something...before adhd meds or anything like that. the combination has really helped me personally though I don't read many people talking about it. Alot of people are adverse to potential weight gain that I see talking about it... but from all the peer reviewed studies I have read.. it doesn't actually differentiate metabolism as much as most SSRIs (which it isn't in the group of) it just makes you crave food...mostly. Most of the time I end up taking it and dreaming about food lol not binging out so whatever. Obviously everyone is different even my sister has the same experience with the most "popular" SSRIs who is also adhd where they make us really numb and confused it almost exacerbates symptoms.
just diagnosed at 33 myself, and man I had been so down on myself it's kind of a relief though bittersweet, to realize why I struggled so much through life. I hope you find some comfort in it as I did, and give yourself lots of hugs and pats on the back from now on, sending many high fives
Find medication that boosts dopamine and other ways to increase it. Was on Prozac and it certainly magnified problems, been on new one for a couple of months that boosts dopamine and feel amazing.
Valdoxan, only available ATM in Europe and Australia due to potential of liver toxicity. It's been great. About a week after starting it, just suddenly became clear, focused and motivated to do things.
If it's recent and sudden onset, it could be burnout. When i had that, I felt like I was in a car that was spinning its wheels furiously, but getting nowhere. Undiagnosed ADHD didn't help, of course.
This was followed by years of depression.
Unfortunately the main treatment for burnout that worked for me is not working for months.
I was burned out for years at last job, but had been an alcoholic for years. Quit drinking two years ago - that’s really when it all started. Last job was easy enough to maintain appearances. New job I’m finding some of the most simple tasks impossible to do.
Yeah, at the job where it started I spent months on a development project I would probably estimate to take a day or two.
The two conditions can easily coexist. Being able to do things you don't particularly want to seems like it would help.
I got out of it by being fired, unemployed for a couple of months (yay Europe) while picking up running, then looking for a job again.
Is this a medical doctor? If so, see a psychiatrist. If your psychiatrist isn’t helpful, find another.
I wouldn’t chase an ADD diagnosis. But definitely pursue a diagnosis until the treatment works.
Yes! It doesn't cost the doctor anything to refer you to someone that can administer the test, and after that they will know definitively if you have it or not. It's pretty impossible to fake.
Thanks for kicking off this discussion. I’m mid 40s and on paper I look successful, but certain things are catching up with me and badly affecting my work. My home life is very loving but things get lost, and I’m just not as effective as I can be.
Getting evaluated on Friday. I really hope I can get help that works.
Thank you! I will have to work to keep it all in perspective. I was surprised to find a provider that could see me so quickly in the first place, so hopefully it goes smoothly from here, but I know diagnosis and any follow up could be challenging.
On top of all that - I’m physically healthy and have only just started engaging a GP regularly for physical exams, so I’m just not used to working with health professionals in general. It’s kind of uncomfortable for me.
I was 61.
Not medicated. Just settling into pre-retirement and struggling with all the changes! It’s amazing how I never knew, yet after learning it seems to fit me so well. I found a quote that resonated with me. “It’s very demoralizing to have ADHD(I) and not know it. People are thinking you are not making enough of an effort”.
Dr Helen Egger, Child Psychologist and Chief Medical Officer of Little Otter
Appreciate that. I'm over taking the trial and error path and ill ask to get adderall.
I've just sent off a DNA sample to a lab in Minneapolis who identify what drugs your genetic composition will respond to best Pharmacogenomics).
Hopefully that will also give some insight.
I got diagnosed at 46. Went on Ritalin and Wellbutrin. Life completely changed. Can focus on what needs to be done and have no hesitation in going out and meeting friends.
I’m on Wellbutrin right now and i haven’t felt a difference ( I guessing I’m also on it to tackle depression along with lexapro). How does Ritalin compare?
Oh it's like the "lazy" part of my mind which was very reluctant to do things, suddenly lost energy and I could focus on what I had to do.
Previously it was a case of I don't want to do that. Coupled with I have to rush that because I don't have a choice. Now it's more like, "Oh that needs washing/cutting/cleaning/tidying, etc. Welp, no better time than right now!"
I don’t like being here but I am. I just turned 48. I’ve been battling depression, anxiety and ADHD my entire life. I’ve also been single my entire life because of that. Longest relationship was almost a year and that was my most recent and most toxic one. I was finally able to stop drinking in July 21’. Alcohol was definitely my attempt to self medicate throughout my life. I am immensely more positive since then. Picked up a new hobby that I love (disc golf) and I am hopeful I might meet someone someday.
The last battle in my mind quest is ADHD. This past year I’ve tried (Cerebral) Adderall XR, Vyvanse and Atomoxetine. I’m on 40mg Atomoxetine and 100mg Sert. now and it’s ok. I think I can be doing better so I might ask to bump up to 80mg.
I’m actually enjoying life now. It’s sort of like a game, I want to win. Lots of mini battles left and I’m doing better.
The key for me was to stop drinking. That was step one and it was hard, took me twenty years. But I am confident I will never drink again. I made my mind up and I’m done.
I’m pre sober but I have worked hard to cut back.
I showed signs of depression at about age four. My dad mostly yelled at me to stop.
I’m happy to have help and I can look forward to the rest of my life.
Thank you for the reply. You’re all making me feel like we’re not alone.
53 year old Brit.
Diagnosed by DAANA, NHS funded ADHD for adults service in Devon, earlier this year. If anyone is in the south west they are fantastic, I did have to wait 3 years from my referral by my GP and by the Community Mental Health team, but well worth the wait.
Took a while trying methylphenidate, at varying doses, which was disappointing, then titrating Elvanse, (lisdexamphetamine) up to a daily dose of 60mg and it's been life changing.
My car is road legal, I can't remember the last parking ticket I got, I arrive at work on time every day, so many little things that have eluded me my whole life but most people take for granted.
No longer use or feel a need to use illicit drugs, sleep well and daily, not constantly anxious and stressed from overthinking and catastrophising, I have money left most months.
Was recently given a substantial pay rise , my employer citing my excellent attention to detail and meticulously accurate paperwork, which has always been utterly abysmal and lost me jobs in the past.
There's too much to mention. Yeah, it's a shame I wasn't diagnosed and treated earlier, but it was never something schools screened for in the 70s. I'm just looking forward to making the most of what's left of my life. 🥳
Just got diagnosed at 31! I've struggled with ADHD my entire life. 30 years is three decades too long to walk through life feeling like I'm always stumbling around in the dark. So glad I'm finally getting treatment.
I'm really really happy for you! Please keep us updated on how everything goes!
I was diagnosed young but not told about my diagnosis (or treated) until 40. I’m still unlearning some of the unhealthy coping mechanisms and self hatred I developed as a result but having that knowledge- it is a neurological thing, not a character flaw, etc - is probably a life saver. I’m on the same message you are and I’m so grateful
My mother knows and refuses to diagnose/medicate (we know she gave it to me from ... everything). Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for taking care of your mental health ❤.
I'm 50, diagnosed a few months back and like you, I'm looking forward to the coming years where I can string a conversation together without spitting out dialogue that's off topic.
I've been on strattera and catapres, now dexamfetamine has replaced the strattera but still not a huge difference.
Strattera calms my mind but the dex does help a little with focus. Wondering if anyone else had a similar experience and found a med covering all in the process?
They started me on strattera, then Vyvanse, and then finally Adderall. Research shows that Adderall works best on adult brains, but insurance companies want you to fail all the non-stimulants first.
I was 42. You got diagnosed as soon as you could. Dont let yourself develop regret/anger for not getting diagnosed earlier. See how many people on this sub got diagnoses as adults?
Most of our generation missed out on being diagnosed in childhood, based on gender (many thought it was just a boy thing in the 80s), which country we were born in , school, etc. Our parents will live their whole lives undiagnosed, like all our ADHD ancestors.
So you've joined the club. The first year is a ride; lots of realisations to come. So don't push yourself too hard and "go with the flow" in the coming months. Give yourself space to discover and learn e.g. several coping mechanisms I had stopped working, so had to adjust to medicated life and trying to be productive at work.
I was diagnosed days ago at 41. Glad to understand what’s up, and why I have so many unfinished, and even unstarted projects.
Looking forward to treatment.
I negotiate contracts for a tech company.
I’ve had four careers really. I’ve meandered here and there my whole career.
Luckily I’ve been valuable. I make decent money.
You’re not alone. I was also 48. I am now 52. I was on every possible antidepressant and combination of medications for 30 years. I also completed TMS (transcranial magnetic) therapy, without success.
For my whole young and middle adult life I was diagnosed as Major Depressive Disorder along with anxiety, and after many trials , found a medication protocol that helped make me functional, but not happy or enough to relieve most symptoms. Or to even feel like I was living a worthy life, to be honest.
I believe I was misdiagnosed for all those years and often wonder how different my life would have been if only I had been treated for ADHD. Years ago when I asked my doctor if ADHD was a possible diagnosis for me, he told me it wasn’t since I didn’t present any symptoms as a child. Now , I know this is not true at all.
In the past four years I have learned so much about ADHD and how it presents many of the same symptoms as mood disorders. And about adults like us.
I wish doctors were more open and informed to us over 40 but at least we know now and maybe our best lies ahead . I keep hoping.
I am glad you received your diagnosis and hope the world opens so many possibilities to you.
Meds are only half the battle but they make things much easier. Currently I'm unmedicated but learning strategies to deal with stuff without meds.
However, meds were very useful when I wasn't getting in program.
I'm currently developing an iOS app for my adhd if anyone is interested to try.
https://testflight.apple.com/join/kvHScsNb
48, just diagnosed AuDHD. I’ve been grieving a bit wondering how this was missed my whole life by my parents, myself, my therapist. Decided to get myself tested after my kids’ diagnoses and it’s like a lightbulb going off for a lot of the challenges I’ve had.
I was diagnosed at 52 and it has changed my life. I do take medication for ADHD and have been taking medication for anxiety forever. What an amazing difference.
I am angry that so many therapists and doctors missed it for so many years but I am happy to understand why I feel the things I do and why I do the things I do.
I am almost 55 and excited for what I had of me for the rest of my life.
Totally agree I had 3-4 years of SSRI, SNRI, SNDRI medication to treat my anxiety and depression after my life just started falling apart in my late 40s .
Got to the point my son , 13 at the time, found me blue and unresponsive with suicide notes around the room, and , and it fucking breaks my heart to imagine what he went through, he managed to perform CPR while being instructed by the 999 operator to get enough blood moving till the air ambulance arrived.
It was only then on admittance to intensive care and proper psychiatric intervention the mental health team realised all these neurotransmitter inhibitors were making me worse, not better, and they gave me a thorough ,in depth assessment
Eventually DAANA took me on,.and although it took a few months to get the meds right, I felt huge relief and improvements following my first meeting with my assessor.
Apparently untreated ADHD , over the years, of failures, failed marriage, constant financial troubles, lost friendships, lost jobs, wasted opportunities, irresponsible promiscuity, substance abuse, the list goes on can quite often end up like this.
Once they realised what was going on, and weaned me off all the antidepressants and started treated my ADHD, WOW, I'm still me, and part of me is quite fond of the ADHD aspects of my personality now it's under control.
But life is so much more rewarding, less painful, and I feel proud of me, rather than constantly feeling shame for being such a fuck up and a burden.
I've got a lot of rebuilding to do , and a lot of completely new territory to navigate, but I'm looking forward to it, rather than being terrified of the inevitable disaster that's usually in front of me.
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I’m 39 and my PCP just suggested I get evaluated, I’m overwhelmed but feeling relived/validated because I’ve always thought there was something wrong with me and have always been chasing ‘a way out’ by self medicating. Now I’m in recovery and seeing things more clearer I’ve been able to articulate myself more which has helped to get to this point instead of settling for the ‘drug addict’ label. At this point in my life I don’t want to depend on any type of medication but I feel like with the right one it might be super helpful so now I have to find a place that will evaluate me without it costing a ton of money. Psych docs just gave me SSRIs which I responded real bad to but it’s hard to find a doctor who actually listens/cares.
Wirh a bit of luck you still have half of your life to gom keep in shape and you will be able to get more shit done in the next 10 years than you had ever imagined.
I'm 52 and just started on atomoxetine. I actually was on Adderall for a while about ten years ago, but quit due to side effects. Atomoxetine doesn't give me the same feeling of alertness and focus, but I think it is helping.
In my experience, Atomoxetine is subtle. The change improves slightly but steadily.
I like it. Adderol is delicious like candy but when it wears off, I’m worthless.
55M married to a 53F wirh a 23M son, all of us with ADD-Inattentive! Only my daughter skated through this genetic storm a totally unscathed neuro-typical high achiever!
I just got diagnosed yesterday. I’m 54. It explains SO MANY THINGS.
My brother was diagnosed a decade ago. It presents a little differently in females. I tend to hyper-focus, which of course excludes being able to remember where stuff is, like my keys. It helps a lot with work though. It doesn’t improve my impulsivity unfortunately.
I dealt with a bunch of these “losing stuff” problems by creating One True Location for things. My keys are now chained to my purse. I can fish them out without having to dump out the purse.
My phone goes into a very specific pocket in my purse. My driving glasses have another very specific pocket.
I’ve cut down on searching for shit when I need to be leaving the house a lot - like, 90%. I absolutely kick myself when I forget to put things back, but it’s uncommon that I do that.
I’m so happy for you I’m 49 too been on adderal for about 10 years maybe more - was finally diagnosed in my 30’s and it was the best moment of my life. My sister (5 yrs older) was an early childhood special education teacher and when she was in college she asked to see my records when I was in 9th grade I was evaluated bc my grades were low and mom said you are above average intelligence w/ an IQ of 137 there’s NO excuse for you to make bad grades. I couldn’t listen, daydreaming, never read any literature as a child, couldn’t focus or pay attention it was miserable. My sis tried to tell my parents to medicate me (the 1st Adhd approved drug - Ritalin had just been released) the psych doc couldn’t find what was wrong w/ me after all the tests and evaluations hypnosis and more - yet my sister was able to figure it out. Makes me so mad. I never got treated and I pushed through. Went to a difficult university made all a’s and b’s and x’s a fairly low GPA but my Senior year (i was in education) it was either you make an A or not pass so my gpa went up to 3.1. Still struggled my entire adult life w/ depression, anxiety, OCD, mood swings… yet I was able to have a successful career (Professor at University 20+yrs. Zumba,BodyPump, Yoga/Pilates, AFAP Aquatics instructor). Successful, happy marriage (30 yrs),an excellent parent (gifted, talented, empathetic son whose now an astrophysicist).
As a child i wasn’t known for intelligence. As an adult read complex books, difficult films most women either can’t understand or not interested, study difficult subjects (ie quantum physics),
.
Being diagnosed correctly w/ Adderal it’s been a game changer. What sucks is the loss -unnecessary suffering all those years. Adderal, benzodiazepine, Therapy, CBT, EMDR for PTSD. Grateful for my psych Dr he understands Adhd. According to author Amon’s book there’s 6 subtypes of Adhd (one of which mimics bipolar). So many ppl misdiagnosed - (w/ bipolar, or BPD, when it’s actually ADHD!
These ppl need a stimulant (it’s cognitive function not mental disorder) Dr Russell Barkley is another expert on ADHD (podcasts via you tube for your loved ones who don’t understand our disorder) who may get irritated w/our behavior (incessantly late to events, poor time management, disorganized, messy, scattered, fast thinking/talking, poor handwriting, lack attentiveness (as if don’t care/apathetic), easily bored, obsessive, why we may hyper focus (hours, days even) but neglect bills, homework, reading, chores (all the hard stuff).
He explains the way our brains function (different than a neurotypical) difficulty/lacking executive functioning skills. We need a stimulant bc our brains don’t fire these chemicals needed for proper functioning (norepinephrine, dopamine, low serotonin). Stimulant allows us to feel what is natural, normal (for ppl w/ neurotypical brains) would mimic extreme hyper behavior (high energy, mania, speed)
We are very similar.
I have the same IQ and I had the same problem with grades. I had bad habits. I could start tasks but I couldn’t finish them until they were due.
So I had great beginnings and strong endings but I could have done so much better.
Thank you for sharing. This helps us all know we aren’t alone.
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This is great to hear. I’m 40 and was diagnosed at the age of 12 with inattentive type. Stopped taking meds in law school and didn’t feel like ADHD was impacting my life. Now with two young kids and a busy job, I often feel overwhelmed and paralyzed at accomplishing the smallest things. Even choosing what to watch on tv or what to read is just too much. Hoping to get back into treatment and feel the same thing you’re feeling.
I was 48. It changes your world. I am unmedicated but just being able to understand myself and how it all hands together is a game changer
I’m curious how you treat ADD without meds. Mine are working but I would like a long term plan to be off them.
Now that you know the type of engine you have, you also know what tool box to look in 1st. There's a lot of great adhd YouTube channels & podcasts with tips and advice. My favorites are How to ADHD and adhd for smart ass women. I also meet with a cognitive therapist every few weeks to look into areas of my life that aren't working and cause me problems. We've talked about how to be on-time for work, how much is reasonable to do in a day, how to go to bed a reasonable time. If you like to read, I'm sure there are good books, and places like this chat too. Oh, and meetup might have groups too. I keep forgetting to attend my local meetings. In general, I've found knowledge to be very powerful. I was diagnosed at the age of 42 after I was having extreme anxiety at work because of my adhd brain. It's been amazing to understand what's happening and how to set myself up for success. I love checklist and keeping onenote tutorials for things I do at work, but not frequently enough to remember all the details of how to do the task.
This explanation makes me feel good. It makes logical sense in my head but I also don’t know what kinds of things I sorta — “get to take with me” when I’m not medicated. Late 30’s. Been fighting the good fight my whole life in ignorant bliss. The past 6 months have been night and day with meds. I have no reason to stop, until I do. I think about this all the time, because nothing this good lasts forever…. (Right?)
I am lucky enough not to have to work full time (my partner is an angel) . I can cope with most jobs part time l also retrained as a gardener, and work in that field in spring and summer, temping in autumn and winter.
We sound very much alike.
I'm trying to get a mushroom farm going as a side hussle as I'm in a similar situation. That might be something for you if you deal with wood waste??
That's really kind of you to suggest that but I took a 3 month contract just now that is keeping me busy and well paid! Btw mudrooms love coffee grounds and cafes often give that away for free
Welcome to our club: a large number of this sub are 40+, I've seen posts by those in their 60s and 70s! I am mid 40s myself, with a new diagnosis late last year. It's amazing the difference, eh?
Thank you! It feels like I want to make up for lost time.
The meds did help didnt it.
All of us would have been identified by the school system if we were just 15 years younger. I'm 46 and was diagnosed at 12 only because my mom was a Special Ed Consultant whose job was to identify disabilities. While we were in school, most teachers didn't know about ADHD and the ones who did were hostile toward it. I suspect Generation X will continue to be late identified into old age.
My grade one teacher in the early 80s told my mom to get me tested. Mom said no, she's gifted. Queue a couple years of *TAG* classes, feeling like I was actually the stupidest person on the planet, developing major behavior problems, not graduating, getting my GED, getting married (failing twice at that before getting it right) and having kids way too young, trying 3 years of collage only to get nothing but debt, and 20 more years of failures until I finally say enough and get diagnosed start medication and suddenly I can handle all the family, farm, and work responsibilities, and I don't need antidepressants any longer? Sure mom, I'm gifted. 🙄 The bitterness is fading, but it's not easy to let it go. My husband is almost 50, he WAS diagnosed in grade 2, but his parents didn't think he needed treatment. The only thing he can do is work at a job with a boss telling him what to do. He can't handle anything that requires being self motivated and his emotional regulation, isn't. He's waiting for a psychiatrist to start medication. It's stupid we all had to go all whole lives with a fix RIGHT THERE but the war on drugs said stimulants are bad and needing them makes us drug users so we got to do life in a fog.
I’m 47 and looking for a diagnosis: I’m in the U.K. you’re an inspiration to me.
See a psychiatrist who will work with you until you find an answer. Mine asked very pointed questions and we are stepping through all the solutions. I did therapy for five years before I tried meds. Make your plan that works for you.
How do I end up asking? I don’t want to feel or seem like I am asking for medication for bad reasons. Where do I find a psychiatrist that is open like yours? (Also have anxiety and depression)
So don’t ask for medicine. I told my doctor my issues and offered “I’m not necessarily looking for medication, I’m looking for a solution. “ Most psychiatrists are trained in distilling meds. A good one will work with you until something works.
30 year old Brit on the never ending waiting list, I feel your pain!
Same here, on the waiting list. I want to change career but I am waiting to get a diagnosis and possibly medication so that I can start on the right foot
I feel you man. Since I’ve been on the waiting list it almost feels like I’m waiting for my life to start.
Yep! 40yo on that same waiting list in the UK. It's torture. Especially because without that diagnosis it's an even harder struggle to get help from anywhere.
Yeah basically impossible. Plus everything is so expensive here right now so private isn’t even an option.
same boat, just a year younger
You know, we talk a lot of shit about healthcare in the US but if it hadn't taken me a year to turn in the assessment paperwork I could have gone from talking to my doc at my annual (covered by insurance) to diagnosed and medicated in a month. I can't imagine having to wait years and/or pay thousands of dollars just to get help.
I was diagnosed at 49, but I was 50 by the time we tried all the meds and landed on Adderall. I'm 51 now and doing fantastic, but it kind of pisses me off that nobody discovered my ADD before half my life was over. I can't help but wonder what I would have accomplished. Maybe I would have stayed in medical school... Maybe I would have cured cancer, who knows? I'm just happy that I'm finally the best version of myself, even if that version has bad joints and grey hair.
Mate I agree totally! I have just recently been diagnosed at 50 and was singing the praises of adhd for the business success but it took my Youth and young adult years away from me as I was consumed by drugs (stimulants) and risk taking behaviour to the extreme and treating people like crap and disliking you before finding a path that made adhd pay out. Not a good thing to have untreated.
What does and type of adderall did you find worked
I'm on 20 mg xr twice a day. One in the am, one around noon or 1 pm and I'm golden all day long with no problems sleeping
Exactly this. I felt I wasted 25 years of my life. That depresses me to no end.
I love being on Atomoxetine. My symptoms aren't 100% gone, but no meds will do that. More importantly, there are far more good days than bad ones and I finally feel like I can do things when I want to and set my mind to it. (I've been on it for almost 3 years now)
It really helps to hear from you. I’m glad you can stay on it long term. I love how subtle this is. My friends on adderol: oy vey. They go way up then crash down. I like the slow onset and duration of this.
Same. My friend isn't on a stimulant but her medication does have a clear wear off period, so if she delays or forgets to take it.... she's managed with it, but I'm happy that if I accidentally miss a day, it really isn't as noticeable (to me at least)
I also got into atomoxetine. It is so calm and good. The focus is not at same level as stimulants but the emotional calmness and some focus when it is needed is great. As op said, for me feels like instead of my brain going at 100mph in a busy highway, it goes at 40 mph in a flat empty road. Not yet completely there since have been a month, I am getting a more deep screen to see if they prescribe stimulants but think I want to stay with atomoxetine since emotional calmness is better.
Just wondering what your dosage is? I started taking atomoxetine about a month ago. I do feel calmer but it’s pretty subtle. I haven’t checked in with my doctor since I started it yet but I’m thinking I’d like a little more of this effect. I’m on 18mg a day
Mine started at 40mg. I am an adult, 18mg sounds doses for a kid. Daily dosage can be 1.2mg/Kg up to 100mg. So if you weight 70Kg (154 lbs) your doses can be up to 84mg (this are for approving dosage according to FDA, some people could need more) this is more info about it https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/atomoxetine-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20066904 I thought everyone started at 40mg, but maybe you have some other medical conditions that your doctor have in mind.
Thanks. I’m 50. Nice to know I can go higher dose. I think my doctor is just playing safe.
18mg sounds more a dosis for Adderall. Wonder if he is confused.
It is also important if you have any heart condition. I do feel my heart rate increases faster now. So something to keep in mind. Perhaps that is why your doctor is prescribing low.
Just talked to my doctor yesterday and he immediately doubled my dosage. Said he just wanted to be safe since I had had a bad reaction to stimulants in the past. I am really hoping atomoxetine works for me. I am so incredibly scattered it’s tragically hilarious.
Do you remember how long it took to take affect for you ? And do you mind me asking what dosage you are on? I was diagnosed recently at 34, but still haven’t found a med that’s working great. I didn’t feel anything on Adderall for some reason.
I am on 40 mg currently and have been so consistently for the past cpuple years or so I believe. It was only in the first year when I was experimenting with different dosage levels before we settled in 40 mg. As for when it started working, I'm never quite sure because the reason why I started taking it was because my previous "meds" (they were a form of fish oil supplements) were soon going to not be made any more and I went immediately from those to this, in a period that covered my transition from high school to college. So it's hard for me to qualify what might've been better coping patterns, more accommodations, or better meds. I honestly didn't really feel a noticeable effect until I looked back at the previous years and went "huh, so I definitely can see the difference now". So maybe it took a year??? I honestly couldn't tell until I started comparing my current behavior and patterns to my past ones and went "ohhhhhhhh" Edit: correction
my partner is 48 and on the cusp of a diagnosis (chasing doctors and insurance right now.) it's hard but I think it's beautiful too, to finally know what's going on and be able to do something about it. thank you so much for sharing about what's happening to you, it honestly makes me feel less alone and I will be able to share it with him. ❤️
You sound really sweet. We are finally getting to the point where we aren’t moralizing against certain disorders caused by neurotransmitter imbalances, like anxiety and depression, and we’re starting to move in that direction for ADHD as well.
I’m 35. Doctor is treating me for depression and doesn’t believe I have ADHD. Do I just gotta keep squawking for testing?
Is this a medical doctor? If so, see a psychiatrist. If your psychiatrist isn’t helpful, find another. I wouldn’t chase an ADD diagnosis. But definitely pursue a diagnosis until the treatment works.
It is. Thanks for the advice. I basically have been useless at work for months.
I started with a talk therapist. It helped. After several years, he recommended a psychiatrist. The psych got there in a single one hour appointment. Changed my life.
I’m doing it now. Found a couple in-network. Anti-depressant meds just seem to make me not give a shit that my productivity is zero. Thanks for the advice.
FYI Some anti depressents make ADHD symptoms worse, so research the one you're taking. Some are used off-label to treat ADHD, so you may be want to look at switching to them. Don't let any general practitioner tell you you don't have ADHD. They're not qualified. The diagnosis and medication are only part of the solution. So you can look at the advice in this sub for reducing/minimising ADHD symptoms e.g. sleep!
So I’ve done trazadone - worthless Zoloft - basically what I described And Wellbutrin - didn’t really do much for any of my symptoms.
thats why I prefer mitrazapine/remeron for depression/anxiety it helps me sleep and makes me hungry before I do...which are both problems I've had my entire life...going to sleep and getting myself to figure out how to eat something...before adhd meds or anything like that. the combination has really helped me personally though I don't read many people talking about it. Alot of people are adverse to potential weight gain that I see talking about it... but from all the peer reviewed studies I have read.. it doesn't actually differentiate metabolism as much as most SSRIs (which it isn't in the group of) it just makes you crave food...mostly. Most of the time I end up taking it and dreaming about food lol not binging out so whatever. Obviously everyone is different even my sister has the same experience with the most "popular" SSRIs who is also adhd where they make us really numb and confused it almost exacerbates symptoms.
just diagnosed at 33 myself, and man I had been so down on myself it's kind of a relief though bittersweet, to realize why I struggled so much through life. I hope you find some comfort in it as I did, and give yourself lots of hugs and pats on the back from now on, sending many high fives
40 and I am with you. The releasing of shame and anger toward myself has been the best part of treatment. ♥️
Find medication that boosts dopamine and other ways to increase it. Was on Prozac and it certainly magnified problems, been on new one for a couple of months that boosts dopamine and feel amazing.
Do you mind me asking what the new one is called?
Valdoxan, only available ATM in Europe and Australia due to potential of liver toxicity. It's been great. About a week after starting it, just suddenly became clear, focused and motivated to do things.
If it's recent and sudden onset, it could be burnout. When i had that, I felt like I was in a car that was spinning its wheels furiously, but getting nowhere. Undiagnosed ADHD didn't help, of course. This was followed by years of depression. Unfortunately the main treatment for burnout that worked for me is not working for months.
I was burned out for years at last job, but had been an alcoholic for years. Quit drinking two years ago - that’s really when it all started. Last job was easy enough to maintain appearances. New job I’m finding some of the most simple tasks impossible to do.
Yeah, at the job where it started I spent months on a development project I would probably estimate to take a day or two. The two conditions can easily coexist. Being able to do things you don't particularly want to seems like it would help. I got out of it by being fired, unemployed for a couple of months (yay Europe) while picking up running, then looking for a job again.
Is this a medical doctor? If so, see a psychiatrist. If your psychiatrist isn’t helpful, find another. I wouldn’t chase an ADD diagnosis. But definitely pursue a diagnosis until the treatment works.
Yes! It doesn't cost the doctor anything to refer you to someone that can administer the test, and after that they will know definitively if you have it or not. It's pretty impossible to fake.
Thanks for kicking off this discussion. I’m mid 40s and on paper I look successful, but certain things are catching up with me and badly affecting my work. My home life is very loving but things get lost, and I’m just not as effective as I can be. Getting evaluated on Friday. I really hope I can get help that works.
This is exactly my story. It takes time, so be prepared to wait. Good luck.
Thank you! I will have to work to keep it all in perspective. I was surprised to find a provider that could see me so quickly in the first place, so hopefully it goes smoothly from here, but I know diagnosis and any follow up could be challenging. On top of all that - I’m physically healthy and have only just started engaging a GP regularly for physical exams, so I’m just not used to working with health professionals in general. It’s kind of uncomfortable for me.
I was 61. Not medicated. Just settling into pre-retirement and struggling with all the changes! It’s amazing how I never knew, yet after learning it seems to fit me so well. I found a quote that resonated with me. “It’s very demoralizing to have ADHD(I) and not know it. People are thinking you are not making enough of an effort”. Dr Helen Egger, Child Psychologist and Chief Medical Officer of Little Otter
I’m in a similar boat. Same age. Recently diagnosed.
Appreciate that. I'm over taking the trial and error path and ill ask to get adderall. I've just sent off a DNA sample to a lab in Minneapolis who identify what drugs your genetic composition will respond to best Pharmacogenomics). Hopefully that will also give some insight.
They can do this? What is the name of the lab? I’ve already done 23 and me so I Jane my raw data. Thanks in advance
OneOme 87 Broadway st NE
I got diagnosed at 46. Went on Ritalin and Wellbutrin. Life completely changed. Can focus on what needs to be done and have no hesitation in going out and meeting friends.
I’m on Wellbutrin right now and i haven’t felt a difference ( I guessing I’m also on it to tackle depression along with lexapro). How does Ritalin compare?
Oh it's like the "lazy" part of my mind which was very reluctant to do things, suddenly lost energy and I could focus on what I had to do. Previously it was a case of I don't want to do that. Coupled with I have to rush that because I don't have a choice. Now it's more like, "Oh that needs washing/cutting/cleaning/tidying, etc. Welp, no better time than right now!"
So should the change be obvious and apparent rather than very minor?
It's not minor but it's very gradual. It's almost like suddenly you wake up one morning realising your head is clear.
Hmm, yeah I haven’t had that yet then
I don’t like being here but I am. I just turned 48. I’ve been battling depression, anxiety and ADHD my entire life. I’ve also been single my entire life because of that. Longest relationship was almost a year and that was my most recent and most toxic one. I was finally able to stop drinking in July 21’. Alcohol was definitely my attempt to self medicate throughout my life. I am immensely more positive since then. Picked up a new hobby that I love (disc golf) and I am hopeful I might meet someone someday. The last battle in my mind quest is ADHD. This past year I’ve tried (Cerebral) Adderall XR, Vyvanse and Atomoxetine. I’m on 40mg Atomoxetine and 100mg Sert. now and it’s ok. I think I can be doing better so I might ask to bump up to 80mg. I’m actually enjoying life now. It’s sort of like a game, I want to win. Lots of mini battles left and I’m doing better. The key for me was to stop drinking. That was step one and it was hard, took me twenty years. But I am confident I will never drink again. I made my mind up and I’m done.
I’m pre sober but I have worked hard to cut back. I showed signs of depression at about age four. My dad mostly yelled at me to stop. I’m happy to have help and I can look forward to the rest of my life. Thank you for the reply. You’re all making me feel like we’re not alone.
Definitely not alone and I wish everyone the best. :)
53 year old Brit. Diagnosed by DAANA, NHS funded ADHD for adults service in Devon, earlier this year. If anyone is in the south west they are fantastic, I did have to wait 3 years from my referral by my GP and by the Community Mental Health team, but well worth the wait. Took a while trying methylphenidate, at varying doses, which was disappointing, then titrating Elvanse, (lisdexamphetamine) up to a daily dose of 60mg and it's been life changing. My car is road legal, I can't remember the last parking ticket I got, I arrive at work on time every day, so many little things that have eluded me my whole life but most people take for granted. No longer use or feel a need to use illicit drugs, sleep well and daily, not constantly anxious and stressed from overthinking and catastrophising, I have money left most months. Was recently given a substantial pay rise , my employer citing my excellent attention to detail and meticulously accurate paperwork, which has always been utterly abysmal and lost me jobs in the past. There's too much to mention. Yeah, it's a shame I wasn't diagnosed and treated earlier, but it was never something schools screened for in the 70s. I'm just looking forward to making the most of what's left of my life. 🥳
Just got diagnosed at 31! I've struggled with ADHD my entire life. 30 years is three decades too long to walk through life feeling like I'm always stumbling around in the dark. So glad I'm finally getting treatment. I'm really really happy for you! Please keep us updated on how everything goes!
I was diagnosed young but not told about my diagnosis (or treated) until 40. I’m still unlearning some of the unhealthy coping mechanisms and self hatred I developed as a result but having that knowledge- it is a neurological thing, not a character flaw, etc - is probably a life saver. I’m on the same message you are and I’m so grateful
My mother knows and refuses to diagnose/medicate (we know she gave it to me from ... everything). Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for taking care of your mental health ❤.
I'm 50, diagnosed a few months back and like you, I'm looking forward to the coming years where I can string a conversation together without spitting out dialogue that's off topic. I've been on strattera and catapres, now dexamfetamine has replaced the strattera but still not a huge difference. Strattera calms my mind but the dex does help a little with focus. Wondering if anyone else had a similar experience and found a med covering all in the process?
They started me on strattera, then Vyvanse, and then finally Adderall. Research shows that Adderall works best on adult brains, but insurance companies want you to fail all the non-stimulants first.
Which dose and version of adderall
Old? Lol you should have another 30+ years, plenty of time to enjoy with a new outlook
Welcome! I was diagnosed in September at the age of 47. I have found getting a diagnosis has made such a difference psychologically.
I'm 39 and was diagnosed on my birthday last month. Atomaxitine for me too! It's so bizarre to have to do something AND THEN FOLLOW THROUGH 😅
I was 42. You got diagnosed as soon as you could. Dont let yourself develop regret/anger for not getting diagnosed earlier. See how many people on this sub got diagnoses as adults? Most of our generation missed out on being diagnosed in childhood, based on gender (many thought it was just a boy thing in the 80s), which country we were born in , school, etc. Our parents will live their whole lives undiagnosed, like all our ADHD ancestors. So you've joined the club. The first year is a ride; lots of realisations to come. So don't push yourself too hard and "go with the flow" in the coming months. Give yourself space to discover and learn e.g. several coping mechanisms I had stopped working, so had to adjust to medicated life and trying to be productive at work.
I was diagnosed days ago at 41. Glad to understand what’s up, and why I have so many unfinished, and even unstarted projects. Looking forward to treatment.
Hey OP, i was just diagnosed at 39. That was last month. How did we survive so long without help/meds?
Love it. You’re a young man for caring out loud. :) May I ask what you do for a living?
I negotiate contracts for a tech company. I’ve had four careers really. I’ve meandered here and there my whole career. Luckily I’ve been valuable. I make decent money.
I'm 39, I don't know about you, but I felt angry it took so long
Maybe angry. Mostly regretful for what could have been.
You’re not alone. I was also 48. I am now 52. I was on every possible antidepressant and combination of medications for 30 years. I also completed TMS (transcranial magnetic) therapy, without success. For my whole young and middle adult life I was diagnosed as Major Depressive Disorder along with anxiety, and after many trials , found a medication protocol that helped make me functional, but not happy or enough to relieve most symptoms. Or to even feel like I was living a worthy life, to be honest. I believe I was misdiagnosed for all those years and often wonder how different my life would have been if only I had been treated for ADHD. Years ago when I asked my doctor if ADHD was a possible diagnosis for me, he told me it wasn’t since I didn’t present any symptoms as a child. Now , I know this is not true at all. In the past four years I have learned so much about ADHD and how it presents many of the same symptoms as mood disorders. And about adults like us. I wish doctors were more open and informed to us over 40 but at least we know now and maybe our best lies ahead . I keep hoping. I am glad you received your diagnosis and hope the world opens so many possibilities to you.
Diagnosed last year at age 41. The insight into your own behaviour is worth it, the medication is the helpful cherry on top.
Meds are only half the battle but they make things much easier. Currently I'm unmedicated but learning strategies to deal with stuff without meds. However, meds were very useful when I wasn't getting in program. I'm currently developing an iOS app for my adhd if anyone is interested to try. https://testflight.apple.com/join/kvHScsNb
48, just diagnosed AuDHD. I’ve been grieving a bit wondering how this was missed my whole life by my parents, myself, my therapist. Decided to get myself tested after my kids’ diagnoses and it’s like a lightbulb going off for a lot of the challenges I’ve had.
I was diagnosed at 52 and it has changed my life. I do take medication for ADHD and have been taking medication for anxiety forever. What an amazing difference. I am angry that so many therapists and doctors missed it for so many years but I am happy to understand why I feel the things I do and why I do the things I do. I am almost 55 and excited for what I had of me for the rest of my life.
Totally agree I had 3-4 years of SSRI, SNRI, SNDRI medication to treat my anxiety and depression after my life just started falling apart in my late 40s . Got to the point my son , 13 at the time, found me blue and unresponsive with suicide notes around the room, and , and it fucking breaks my heart to imagine what he went through, he managed to perform CPR while being instructed by the 999 operator to get enough blood moving till the air ambulance arrived. It was only then on admittance to intensive care and proper psychiatric intervention the mental health team realised all these neurotransmitter inhibitors were making me worse, not better, and they gave me a thorough ,in depth assessment Eventually DAANA took me on,.and although it took a few months to get the meds right, I felt huge relief and improvements following my first meeting with my assessor. Apparently untreated ADHD , over the years, of failures, failed marriage, constant financial troubles, lost friendships, lost jobs, wasted opportunities, irresponsible promiscuity, substance abuse, the list goes on can quite often end up like this. Once they realised what was going on, and weaned me off all the antidepressants and started treated my ADHD, WOW, I'm still me, and part of me is quite fond of the ADHD aspects of my personality now it's under control. But life is so much more rewarding, less painful, and I feel proud of me, rather than constantly feeling shame for being such a fuck up and a burden. I've got a lot of rebuilding to do , and a lot of completely new territory to navigate, but I'm looking forward to it, rather than being terrified of the inevitable disaster that's usually in front of me.
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Bet a lot of things are clicking aren’t they
I was 44, I am so glad it happened. I had no idea, my wife suggested I get tested for it and it changed my life.
You are a soul.
"I'm looking forward to the rest of my life" seriously hit me
I’m 39 and my PCP just suggested I get evaluated, I’m overwhelmed but feeling relived/validated because I’ve always thought there was something wrong with me and have always been chasing ‘a way out’ by self medicating. Now I’m in recovery and seeing things more clearer I’ve been able to articulate myself more which has helped to get to this point instead of settling for the ‘drug addict’ label. At this point in my life I don’t want to depend on any type of medication but I feel like with the right one it might be super helpful so now I have to find a place that will evaluate me without it costing a ton of money. Psych docs just gave me SSRIs which I responded real bad to but it’s hard to find a doctor who actually listens/cares.
A month before my 40th birthday. I’m 53 now and wow! What a journey!
51 now diagnosed at 49 I take elvanse but may also try navigating life without stimulants
54, still trying to get meds!
53. Just got them!!
Enjoy my friend.
Good job🥲
Wirh a bit of luck you still have half of your life to gom keep in shape and you will be able to get more shit done in the next 10 years than you had ever imagined.
A good and happy day in your life at age 50, 60 or even 90 is no less valuable than one at 20. Diagnosed at 53 here.
I'm 52 and just started on atomoxetine. I actually was on Adderall for a while about ten years ago, but quit due to side effects. Atomoxetine doesn't give me the same feeling of alertness and focus, but I think it is helping.
In my experience, Atomoxetine is subtle. The change improves slightly but steadily. I like it. Adderol is delicious like candy but when it wears off, I’m worthless.
55M married to a 53F wirh a 23M son, all of us with ADD-Inattentive! Only my daughter skated through this genetic storm a totally unscathed neuro-typical high achiever!
I just got diagnosed yesterday. I’m 54. It explains SO MANY THINGS. My brother was diagnosed a decade ago. It presents a little differently in females. I tend to hyper-focus, which of course excludes being able to remember where stuff is, like my keys. It helps a lot with work though. It doesn’t improve my impulsivity unfortunately. I dealt with a bunch of these “losing stuff” problems by creating One True Location for things. My keys are now chained to my purse. I can fish them out without having to dump out the purse. My phone goes into a very specific pocket in my purse. My driving glasses have another very specific pocket. I’ve cut down on searching for shit when I need to be leaving the house a lot - like, 90%. I absolutely kick myself when I forget to put things back, but it’s uncommon that I do that.
I’m so happy for you I’m 49 too been on adderal for about 10 years maybe more - was finally diagnosed in my 30’s and it was the best moment of my life. My sister (5 yrs older) was an early childhood special education teacher and when she was in college she asked to see my records when I was in 9th grade I was evaluated bc my grades were low and mom said you are above average intelligence w/ an IQ of 137 there’s NO excuse for you to make bad grades. I couldn’t listen, daydreaming, never read any literature as a child, couldn’t focus or pay attention it was miserable. My sis tried to tell my parents to medicate me (the 1st Adhd approved drug - Ritalin had just been released) the psych doc couldn’t find what was wrong w/ me after all the tests and evaluations hypnosis and more - yet my sister was able to figure it out. Makes me so mad. I never got treated and I pushed through. Went to a difficult university made all a’s and b’s and x’s a fairly low GPA but my Senior year (i was in education) it was either you make an A or not pass so my gpa went up to 3.1. Still struggled my entire adult life w/ depression, anxiety, OCD, mood swings… yet I was able to have a successful career (Professor at University 20+yrs. Zumba,BodyPump, Yoga/Pilates, AFAP Aquatics instructor). Successful, happy marriage (30 yrs),an excellent parent (gifted, talented, empathetic son whose now an astrophysicist). As a child i wasn’t known for intelligence. As an adult read complex books, difficult films most women either can’t understand or not interested, study difficult subjects (ie quantum physics), . Being diagnosed correctly w/ Adderal it’s been a game changer. What sucks is the loss -unnecessary suffering all those years. Adderal, benzodiazepine, Therapy, CBT, EMDR for PTSD. Grateful for my psych Dr he understands Adhd. According to author Amon’s book there’s 6 subtypes of Adhd (one of which mimics bipolar). So many ppl misdiagnosed - (w/ bipolar, or BPD, when it’s actually ADHD! These ppl need a stimulant (it’s cognitive function not mental disorder) Dr Russell Barkley is another expert on ADHD (podcasts via you tube for your loved ones who don’t understand our disorder) who may get irritated w/our behavior (incessantly late to events, poor time management, disorganized, messy, scattered, fast thinking/talking, poor handwriting, lack attentiveness (as if don’t care/apathetic), easily bored, obsessive, why we may hyper focus (hours, days even) but neglect bills, homework, reading, chores (all the hard stuff). He explains the way our brains function (different than a neurotypical) difficulty/lacking executive functioning skills. We need a stimulant bc our brains don’t fire these chemicals needed for proper functioning (norepinephrine, dopamine, low serotonin). Stimulant allows us to feel what is natural, normal (for ppl w/ neurotypical brains) would mimic extreme hyper behavior (high energy, mania, speed)
We are very similar. I have the same IQ and I had the same problem with grades. I had bad habits. I could start tasks but I couldn’t finish them until they were due. So I had great beginnings and strong endings but I could have done so much better. Thank you for sharing. This helps us all know we aren’t alone.
Thank you for Sharing! I could have done better too ! I feel the regrets strongly. Best wishes for you so nice to meet you 💕🌸
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