Navigating ADHD: A Personal Journey of Understanding and Growth

Navigating ADHD: A Personal Journey of Understanding and Growth

Discovering that both my teenage son and I shared many symptoms of ADHD was a pivotal moment in my life last year. As we sat together in the kitchen, nodding at each characteristic on the ADHD symptoms list, it became clear that this wasn't just a coincidence. Soon after, we both sought diagnosis and embarked on a journey of learning, growing and healing.

Acceptance and Self-Compassion

One of the biggest changes since my diagnosis has been a newfound acceptance of myself. Understanding that many challenges stemmed from how my brain functions helped relieve the burden of constant self-criticism and negative self-talk that occupied my days for far too long. This shift in perspective allowed me to be more forgiving when tasks weren't completed as expected or when organizational skills fell short.

Strategies for Daily Life

I love learning about new strategies, techniques and information that can help me function a little easier throughout my days. Some of the tools I found helpful were habit stacking (combing two tasks together like brushing teeth and doing affirmations), connecting with others with ADHD (discovering similarities in another felt validating/affirming), Pomodoro Technique (setting a timer to finish a task within the time period given on the timer) and having weekly meetings with Coaching peers and my ADHD Coach to help keep me on track, hold me accountable and be there to share successes with.

Supporting Others Through Coaching

In my coaching and counselling practice, I hope to help people feel safe, at ease and not judged while they explore thoughts, goals, feelings and whatever road blocks they feel are holding them back. While focusing on strengths and validating experiences that others also struggle with, together we create a supportive environment where growth & self-acceptance can flourish. Sharing my personal challenges with ADHD, if a client inquires or is curious, can sometimes help them feel understood and less alone in their struggles, fostering deeper connections and breakthroughs.

Addressing Misconceptions

ADHD is often misunderstood. It's more than occasional forgetfulness or disorganization—it can significantly impact relationships, finances, anxiety levels, work performance, and self-esteem. I can understand why someone without these challenges would have a hard time understanding the effects of an ADHD, and it’s also likely very confusing and frustrating at times for them too. It is also true at the same time that the challenges are quite real and can cause very negative effects and outcomes for people with ADHD or suspect they do. I personally believe that seeking to understand someone else, while continuing to learn more about ADHD can help address any misconceptions or gaps in understanding.

Taking the First Steps

If you suspect you have ADHD, reaching out to your healthcare professional is a step many people take if they are curious about getting a diagnosis or have any questions around it. Beyond a diagnosis, there are numerous resources and tools available to help manage symptoms effectively and naturally. Whether through therapy, joining social groups, increased self-care, or positive lifestyle adjustments affecting your mental, emotional, physical or spiritual parts of oneself, finding the right approach tailored to individual’s needs is key to improving daily functioning and overall quality of life.

Awareness with Kindness

This lesson took a while for me to learn, however it turned out for me that judging, criticizing or labeling any new awareness wasn’t very useful or helpful. I now try to see any new self-discoveries simply as information that creates more ease and calmness in my day-to-day life.  

Conclusion

Living with ADHD can be challenging, but with the right support and strategies, it is possible to lead a fulfilling and organized life. If you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD, consider reaching out for professional help. As an ADHD Coach and Counsellor, I am here to support you on your journey to understanding and managing ADHD.

For more information about my services and to get in touch, visit Courtenay Edwardes Coaching. I look forward to connecting :)