While ADHD is often viewed as a childhood condition, many people are diagnosed later in life. You might have still had the condition when you were younger, but weren’t properly diagnosed. Or, you might have a child who has been dealing with symptoms for quite a while and they just received an official diagnosis.
So, what does that mean?
What should you do when you receive that diagnosis? Most importantly, don’t let it send you into a spiral. You are the same person today as you were before your diagnosis. Now, you just have a clearer picture of what’s causing your symptoms, and you have a better path when it comes to managing them.
Let’s take a closer look at a few things you can do after an ADHD diagnosis to make this chapter of your life easier to handle.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
When you’re diagnosed with ADHD, especially as an adult, it’s perfectly normal and understandable to deal with an influx of emotions. You might feel relief that you finally have answers. You might also struggle with anger or sadness because the condition wasn’t “caught” sooner, so you’ve been dealing with symptoms on your own for years.
Whatever the case, don’t try to push your emotions down. They will demand to be felt, anyway, so acknowledge them and accept them. The sooner you do, the sooner you can start working through them in healthy, effective ways.
This is also the time to let go of any guilt or shame you might be feeling due to your symptoms. Your ADHD diagnosis doesn’t define who you are. It’s a part of you, and it might have a heavy impact on your life. But it doesn’t reflect your personality or values.
Find Support
One of the best things you can do after a diagnosis is to lean on your support system. That’s why it’s so important to let go of guilt. Don’t feel ashamed to spend time with your family and friends. Instead, explain your diagnosis and what it means, and ask them for their support.
Chances are, they’ll be more than happy to offer it.
It’s easy to feel alone and want to isolate yourself after receiving such a diagnosis. But doing so could actually contribute to other mental health issues, including depression or anxiety.
In addition to leaning on your social circle for support, consider joining an ADHD support group. If there isn’t one near you, there are plenty of options online, including forums where you can chat with others, ask questions, and read stories about how other ADHD adults are handling things.
These kinds of support groups can provide hope and give you solid advice, making it easier to work through your diagnosis and think about a brighter future.
Seek Professional Help-Start ADD/ADHD Counseling in Scottsdale and Online in Arizona
While emotional and social support is essential, it’s just as important to talk to a professional if you’re dealing with ADHD.
A combination of medication and therapy is often necessary to truly fight back against the symptoms of ADHD. A therapist can help you better understand the disorder and how it might impact your life. They’ll also help you learn how to manage your thoughts and behaviors. Doing so will help you feel more in control, and less like a “victim” of the condition.
Again, an ADHD diagnosis at any age doesn’t define you. If you’ve recently been diagnosed, take the time to process how you’re feeling, but don’t let shame and guilt keep you from experiencing the help and support you deserve. If you’re struggling with your diagnosis, feel free to contact me to set up an appointment soon.
We understand how difficult it can be to navigate life with ADHD. This is why we are happy to offer a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation with our ADHD/ADD therapist Anissa Hamilin. Our locations for are located throughout the valley with counseling centers located in Phoenix, Anthem, Paradise Valley, and Scottsdale. You can start your therapy journey with Crossroads Counseling by following these simple steps:
- Contact Crossroads Counseling for a complimentary 20-minute phone consult
- Meet with a qualified ADHD/ADD therapist
- Start the process of learning how to live with ADHD
Feel free to learn more about our practice by visiting our about page, FAQ, and blog, or read more about our staff members to start finding your best therapeutic fit! or, call us at 623-680-3486, text 623-688-5115, or email info@crossroadsfcc.com for more information!