The results came in and you don’t really know how you’re supposed to feel about it. What were you expecting exactly? There were only two options: You either have it or you don’t.
You’re angry, anxious, and confused. You’re wondering how this has impacted your life up until this point and how it will impact your life moving forward.
The diagnosis reads clearly in big, black, bold letters: ADHD or ADD. Never did you think you would be diagnosed with something, but here you are. What are you supposed to do now?
Here’s what you can do after you find out you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD or ADD.
Allow Yourself to Feel
At first, you didn’t think it was a big deal, but now you’re questioning what this means moving forward.
You’re angry. How did the doctors not catch this sooner? You’re questioning your past experiences like school, sports, and jobs you’ve held wondering how this affected everything.
You’re anxious and confused. You don’t know what to expect. Does this change anything? Are you going to have to take medication? Is there anything you can do to change this diagnosis?
It may feel like you’re going through a rollercoaster of emotions. It’s completely normal to feel this way. Give yourself a little grace. Allow yourself to experience and process all of your thoughts and emotions.
Learn More About ADHD and ADD
Learning more about your diagnosis can help you understand it a bit more. Once you learn a little bit more about ADHD and ADD, you’ll be able to apply it to your own personal experiences. The unknown is scary. Take some time to research on your own so that you feel a little better about your diagnosis and what to expect moving forward. Reach out to a healthcare provider if you’re in need of additional resources or have any questions.
Lean On Your Loved Ones
There is nothing wrong with being diagnosed with ADHD or ADD. You shouldn’t be embarrassed or ashamed based on this diagnosis. Your friends and family are there for you no matter what. Lean on them during this time. Let them know what you need from them so they can better help you.
Implement Some Coping Strategies
There isn’t a cure for ADHD or ADD, but there are things you can do to better manage the signs and symptoms of it day to day.
Taking care of yourself and your basic human needs can help minimize symptoms of ADHD or ADD. Try to eat healthy and well-balanced meals throughout your day. Aim to sleep 6-8 hours each night. And try to incorporate at least 30 minutes of movement or exercise into your daily routine.
One of the best ways to manage ADHD or ADD is to keep a consistent schedule and routine. This includes keeping things in designated places so it’s easier for you to find them. Planning your day and tasks in advance can also help you. If you have a busy day ahead, break up your calendar and to-do list into smaller chunks so it’s easier for you to get through.
Go to Therapy
One of the best treatment options for ADHD and ADD is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). A therapist will be able to help you better understand the condition, as well as the symptoms you’re experiencing.
A therapist will also be able to provide you with a number of different strategies and coping techniques for you to try to make it easier to manage. Consider Medication
Medication can also greatly improve your daily functioning if you have ADHD or ADD. There are many different medictions and dosages to consider so meeting with an expert in managing ADHD or ADD is most helpful.
Getting diagnosed with ADHD or ADD may seem scary, but it doesn’t have to be. You also don’t have to go through this time alone. Reach out to us today if you’re interested in talking to a therapist about ADHD or ADD Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and/or scheduling an evaluation with our prescriber for medication.