You're Not Alone: Stories of Strength and Support
October: ADHD Awaerness Month
Trevor's Story
I used to get incredibly frustrated when I’d fall off task or get completely lost in thought. It felt like no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t stay focused, and the frustration would build up. But everything changed after my ADHD diagnosis.
I was diagnosed with ADHD at 37, after struggling with memory issues following a long bout of COVID. When my psychologist suggested I get tested, I didn’t expect the results to be "off the charts." I started treatment with therapy and medication, and it was like seeing the world in color for the first time. For the first time in my life, I could focus on just one thing instead of juggling seven thoughts at once. I wasn't so antsy, and I could actually finish tasks. It was an incredible shift.
Looking back, I realize how much energy I spent fighting myself before I knew about ADHD. After my diagnosis, I began to learn about how ADHD works. And you know what? The more I understood, the less frustrating it became. I found tools to help me be more productive, but more importantly, I learned to be kinder to myself. I stopped feeling so defeated when I struggled to stay on task.
If you’re struggling—whether it’s with ADHD or something else—know that it’s OK to not be OK. We all have challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. My journey with ADHD has taught me that there is power in understanding, in seeking help, and in being gentle with yourself. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You're not alone in this.
As we raise awareness this ADHD Awareness Month, let’s remind ourselves and others that it’s OK to ask for help. It’s OK to be a work in progress. With the right support and understanding, we can thrive.
Laura's Story
For as long as I can remember, I’ve felt like I had to work twice as hard as everyone else to accomplish what seemed like simple tasks. Staying organized felt impossible. I thought I was just a “type B” person—too laid-back to stick to a routine. My report cards always came with the same comments: “likes to talk in class” or “very bright but doesn’t live up to potential.” That hit hard. It made me feel like I should be ashamed; like I was capable but just too lazy or undisciplined to actually follow through.
Sure, I was scatterbrained, interrupted people constantly, lost track of time, and hated following directions if I thought they were pointless. But I also loved reading for hours, so I assumed I couldn’t possibly have ADHD. Wasn’t that something you saw in hyperactive boys who couldn’t sit still?
It wasn’t until I was 32 that a friend, who proudly embraced her ADHD, told me she was pretty sure I had it too. I laughed it off at first. There was no way that was me, right? But then she started sending me memes and TikToks about ADHD traits in women, and I began recognizing myself in those snippets. Eventually, I did some research and realized that many traits of ADHD—especially in women—had been flying under the radar my whole life.
By this point, I had an established psychiatrist who really listened to me. When I shared my thoughts, she agreed that an ADHD diagnosis made sense. Finally, I had an answer. Diving into ADHD research was eye-opening. So many things I had once thought were personality flaws or laziness were actually tied to how my brain works. Receiving my diagnosis was validating in ways I never expected. I didn’t feel so alone, and I didn’t feel ashamed for struggling to "just get things done" anymore. I want that for anyone else who might be in the same boat, feeling uncertain and lost.
One of the most empowering things about living with ADHD is discovering my “superpower.” For me, that superpower is curiosity. Sure, it sometimes leads me off-track, but it also pushes me to explore new things—new books, new crafts, new people, and new experiences. My need for novelty and dopamine makes me eager to learn, to dive deep into “why” and discover more about the world around me.
If any of this sounds familiar to you, don’t hesitate to explore the possibility that ADHD might be part of your story. It’s OK to not have it all figured out, and it’s OK to ask for help. You’re not alone in this. ADHD is part of me, but I’ve learned to embrace it, and I hope you can too.
Sure, I was scatterbrained, interrupted people constantly, lost track of time, and hated following directions if I thought they were pointless. But I also loved reading for hours, so I assumed I couldn’t possibly have ADHD. Wasn’t that something you saw in hyperactive boys who couldn’t sit still?
It wasn’t until I was 32 that a friend, who proudly embraced her ADHD, told me she was pretty sure I had it too. I laughed it off at first. There was no way that was me, right? But then she started sending me memes and TikToks about ADHD traits in women, and I began recognizing myself in those snippets. Eventually, I did some research and realized that many traits of ADHD—especially in women—had been flying under the radar my whole life.
By this point, I had an established psychiatrist who really listened to me. When I shared my thoughts, she agreed that an ADHD diagnosis made sense. Finally, I had an answer. Diving into ADHD research was eye-opening. So many things I had once thought were personality flaws or laziness were actually tied to how my brain works. Receiving my diagnosis was validating in ways I never expected. I didn’t feel so alone, and I didn’t feel ashamed for struggling to "just get things done" anymore. I want that for anyone else who might be in the same boat, feeling uncertain and lost.
One of the most empowering things about living with ADHD is discovering my “superpower.” For me, that superpower is curiosity. Sure, it sometimes leads me off-track, but it also pushes me to explore new things—new books, new crafts, new people, and new experiences. My need for novelty and dopamine makes me eager to learn, to dive deep into “why” and discover more about the world around me.
If any of this sounds familiar to you, don’t hesitate to explore the possibility that ADHD might be part of your story. It’s OK to not have it all figured out, and it’s OK to ask for help. You’re not alone in this. ADHD is part of me, but I’ve learned to embrace it, and I hope you can too.
Mara's Story
Diagnosed as hyperactive at a young age, I was tested for ADHD when it was still a relatively new diagnosis. School was challenging—I excelled in tests but struggled to focus in class and often ended up in the principal’s office. I couldn’t sit still, and doing homework required background noise and movement. Despite my academic abilities, my mother sensed there was more going on. Testing revealed that I had a high IQ but also needed more stimulating environments to stay engaged.
Growing up with ADHD, I often felt like I had to hide my struggles behind a mask. It was difficult navigating a world that didn’t fully understand me. Thankfully, I was diagnosed early, and with my mother’s support, I received the help I needed. Emotionally, ADHD presented significant challenges. I used to hide it, worried others would dismiss it as an excuse. Creating daily routines became crucial for me, though non-stimulating tasks—like simple conversations—remain difficult at times. Navigating romantic relationships has been especially challenging. For those dating someone with ADHD, I encourage understanding and education—reading books on how to love someone with ADHD can provide valuable insight. We are deeply sensitive and observant, but we often struggle with memory unless deeply stimulated.
Therapy and studying up on ADHD have been pivotal in helping me navigate the challenges I face. I’ve learned to embrace my ADHD and work with it, rather than against it. This approach has allowed me to thrive—not just manage my condition but truly flourish. I work diligently to manage my ADHD, focusing on my strengths and extending kindness to others. Even though I haven’t taken medication since college, every day is a journey to find my balance.
If you're struggling, it's ok to talk to someone.
Growing up with ADHD, I often felt like I had to hide my struggles behind a mask. It was difficult navigating a world that didn’t fully understand me. Thankfully, I was diagnosed early, and with my mother’s support, I received the help I needed. Emotionally, ADHD presented significant challenges. I used to hide it, worried others would dismiss it as an excuse. Creating daily routines became crucial for me, though non-stimulating tasks—like simple conversations—remain difficult at times. Navigating romantic relationships has been especially challenging. For those dating someone with ADHD, I encourage understanding and education—reading books on how to love someone with ADHD can provide valuable insight. We are deeply sensitive and observant, but we often struggle with memory unless deeply stimulated.
Therapy and studying up on ADHD have been pivotal in helping me navigate the challenges I face. I’ve learned to embrace my ADHD and work with it, rather than against it. This approach has allowed me to thrive—not just manage my condition but truly flourish. I work diligently to manage my ADHD, focusing on my strengths and extending kindness to others. Even though I haven’t taken medication since college, every day is a journey to find my balance.
If you're struggling, it's ok to talk to someone.
Ashley's Story
As a kid, I was always in trouble, unable to regulate my emotions. It wasn’t the usual ups and downs you expect from a toddler—it felt more extreme. I had intense highs and lows, constantly riding waves of big emotions. At school, I couldn’t stay in my seat, and my report cards all said the same thing: “Very smart, but talks too much… not living up to potential.” ADHD wasn’t really on the radar in the ’90s, so I was tested for lead poisoning instead. Of course, that came back negative.
In 6th grade, a PE teacher suggested my mom take me to a psychologist. I was diagnosed—not with ADHD, but with bipolar disorder. Medication helped stabilize things, but as I got older, I learned how to “mask” my struggles. I appeared high-functioning on the outside, but inside, I was a mess. I threw myself into physical work, which helped keep my mind busy, and for a while, I thrived in a career that suited my ADHD tendencies.
Things took a turn when I switched careers. Suddenly, tasks that I used to be good at felt impossible. My memory failed, relationships suffered, and I couldn’t keep up with basic self-care— never sleeping, forgetting to eat, staying organized.. even paying my bills on time. I hit a breaking point and finally decided to talk to my doctor.
ADHD in women often goes undiagnosed because we tend to present differently than men. We’re more likely to struggle with disorganization, perfectionism, emotional highs and lows, and time management, which can easily be mistaken for anxiety or depression. For years, I thought my challenges were personality flaws, but in reality, they were the result of my ADHD.
Getting the right diagnosis changed everything for me. Managing ADHD along with bipolar disorder and depression isn’t easy, but through medication, therapy, and self-education, I’ve learned how to manage better. I’ve also learned to be kinder to myself—giving myself grace when I’m struggling. I’ve realized that ADHD comes with its strengths too. My brain is hyperprocessing, leading me to be a great problem-solver. I thrive in emergencies and have a “how hard can it be” mindset that drives me to figure things out.
If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t wait to talk to a doctor. You only get this one life. and you don't have to suffer in silence. Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health. You’re not alone in this journey, and seeking help can make all the difference.
In 6th grade, a PE teacher suggested my mom take me to a psychologist. I was diagnosed—not with ADHD, but with bipolar disorder. Medication helped stabilize things, but as I got older, I learned how to “mask” my struggles. I appeared high-functioning on the outside, but inside, I was a mess. I threw myself into physical work, which helped keep my mind busy, and for a while, I thrived in a career that suited my ADHD tendencies.
Things took a turn when I switched careers. Suddenly, tasks that I used to be good at felt impossible. My memory failed, relationships suffered, and I couldn’t keep up with basic self-care— never sleeping, forgetting to eat, staying organized.. even paying my bills on time. I hit a breaking point and finally decided to talk to my doctor.
ADHD in women often goes undiagnosed because we tend to present differently than men. We’re more likely to struggle with disorganization, perfectionism, emotional highs and lows, and time management, which can easily be mistaken for anxiety or depression. For years, I thought my challenges were personality flaws, but in reality, they were the result of my ADHD.
Getting the right diagnosis changed everything for me. Managing ADHD along with bipolar disorder and depression isn’t easy, but through medication, therapy, and self-education, I’ve learned how to manage better. I’ve also learned to be kinder to myself—giving myself grace when I’m struggling. I’ve realized that ADHD comes with its strengths too. My brain is hyperprocessing, leading me to be a great problem-solver. I thrive in emergencies and have a “how hard can it be” mindset that drives me to figure things out.
If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t wait to talk to a doctor. You only get this one life. and you don't have to suffer in silence. Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health. You’re not alone in this journey, and seeking help can make all the difference.
Castiel's Story
Coming Soon
Brit's Story
Coming Soon