ADHD: 6 Months After Diagnosis | chronic fatigue to adhd, how i got diagnosed, medication update

[@natassiatavares4568]

The "something's wrong with me" feeling that you can't quite define nor explain to someone else but you know is there is such a agonizing thing. Glad you got your diagnosis.

[@rachelanita]

So agonizing! I would doubt my own reality so much because I was told I was just being lazy, etc. I hope anything you're doing gets resolved and you thrive!

[@SoEmmaz1ng]

I literally felt like a Sim in my life, rather than living it.

[@rachelanita]

That's quite a good way to put it!

[@allfacts19]

@@rachelanita Hello, what meds have you been prescribed since you were diagnosed. All I've been prescribed has been Wellbutrin and prozac. You explained my life word for word about the lethargy, and being around groups of people? A large part of my problem is it's like my mind goes blank when I'm talking to people in person. Through typing it isn't so bad. Some days 15 hours doesn't seem like it's enough sleep. I've also went through PTSD, as well as a struggle with alcoholism. For some reason I just came across this video.

[@rachelanita]

Same Jenna -- I totally feel you on the being more empathetic with myself!

[@AngelsEverywhere1925]

Just diagnosed at 56. Cried my eyes out, felt like I’d been ripped off. Now I’m just excited to see what the rest of my life brings with focus and calm. Haven’t started the meds yet but have had a lot of positive feedback on them. Thanks for the vid. Best of luck with the rest of your gifted life 🙏🏼💕

[@rachelanita]

Thanks for your comment, Andrea. I hope things get so much better for you. I would say try a different med if one doesn't work for you.. and there are alternatives if medicine isn't for you :)

[@monemone571]

Hey i'm 32, just got diagnosed too. The Meds are amazing, i know now how normal people must feel. Try it yourself

[@hannahjohn9154]

I got frusrated having this ADHD , but with the use of dr imenherbal on KZbin herbal remedy , i have been able to get rid of ADHD

[@hannahjohn9154]

@@monemone571 I got frusrated having this ADHD , but with the use of dr imenherbal on KZbin herbal remedy , i have been able to get rid of ADHD

[@rachelanita]

@@monemone571 It's truly wild! I'm so glad you feel "normal" -- it was shocking to me too.

[@ronniebennet9413]

i was diagnosed this year at 25 and im a woman. i have the combined type, and for a long time i thought i couldnt have adhd because im not “hyper” as an adult, just as a kid. as an adult im pretty mellow and quiet, usually in public. the thing is, hyperactivity can be internalized, and especially women with adhd do this. good example for me was a brain that is always buzzing with noise and NEVER quiet.

[@rachelanita]

Thank you for sharing your story Ronnie. This is my experience as well.

[@LorraineVirginie]

All of this, plus… I always thought “can’t sit still” meant someone who literally couldn’t stay seated, I have a cousin with ADHD who is like this, literally getting out of his seat and moving around constantly. Only after being diagnosed did i start reflecting that I always did a lot of hyperactive but stationary things - excessive day dreaming, doodling, skin picking, tapping my fingers, humming/singing, etc. I think these are more common in girls who get scolded and reprimanded for not following instructions or being still/quiet far more than boys do, so we learn other ways to channel that hyperactive energy.

[@audreylindsay]

It's like this ! Can relate VERY well.

[@omnipotentfaces1514]

Your literally telling my story, I found out 3 weeks ago!

[@SYLPT93]

I got diagnosed a couple of days ago. Also ADHD the combined type. I'm a 31 year old male and I'm also very quiet and mellow in public. My brain is always on with thoughts and never quiet!

[@cj2590]

I'm a psych grad and we didn't cover ADHD in much depth during my degree. I was quite sure my issue was a sleeping disorder (apparently, I had one of those too). As the diagnostic criteria doesn't include fatigue, and that is my biggest complaint....I am just like you re the sleep. I struggled for years being dismissed as my blood tests would most often come back normal. Neuropsychologists/Neuropsychiatrists I think are the only people who really understood, I'm so grateful for them. Anyway, it wasn't until I got a medication that worked that I realised just how much energy I expend on a daily basis compensating. The fatigue is so hard to explain to people who don't experience it unreasonably and completely out of proportion to your day-to-day activities. Thank you for sharing! There seems to be a growing number of ADHDers doing videos on how exhausting it can be to have this condition. More research would be nice.

[@rachelanita]

Wow, that's super interesting! I'm. so glad you were able to get treatment.... it really is night and day --- like it's unbelievable. Yeah --- it seems to be a commonly overlooked symptom!

[@RadeDobison]

"Unreasonable and completely out of proportion to your day-to-day activities" days off shouLDNT FEEL LIKE WORK

[@403mtm]

Check Dr Russell Barkley on you tube!

[@Amber-kn3sb]

I feel you on this! I assumed for years ADHD couldn't be my problem because of the inexplicable fatigue. And I also got bloodwork done (is my thyroid ok? Do I have nutrient deficiency?) Fatigue isn't officially one of the diagnosable symptoms but it SHOULD be!

[@carlene2416]

Me tooooo -20 years suffering chronic fatigue - turns out it was adhd? I’d like a brain scan as I don’t believe any doctors anymore. Meds help but I’d that due to adhd or due to amphetamines helping manage fatigue ?

[@sunshinee2502]

Your symptoms are absolutely identical to mine. Especially your chronic fatigue. I have always identified as someone that needed a minimum of 10hrs of sleep a night just to function and I would still fall asleep at 3pm every day without constant intake of coffee. My medication absolutely changed my life that way. I have a calm, natural and sustained energy all day long even after hanging out with friends. Normally an hour long conversation would knock me out for the rest of the day. The reason I started my medication was because of my inability to remember anything because I cant process what people are telling me, it's so embarrassing when you see a friend and cant remember a single detail about their life. Now i find that I can actually hold a conversation and ask relevant questions without long awkward breaks in the convo. It's really life changing.

[@rachelanita]

I am SO glad for you. It's honestly such a relief being able to live a much more normal life... I'm so grateful right now... my dad is in the hospital with a terrible condition... and I've been able to be SO helpful, present, and take on so much responsibility... when I know I wouldn't have been able to function at the level I need to had I never been diagnosed. It's so good to have our lives back!

[@AForEh]

What medication are you on

[@sunshinee2502]

@@AForEh I was on Concerta and now Vyvanse.

[@AForEh]

@@sunshinee2502 I started at 10mg vyvanse and worked up to 30mg, but just stopped because I didn’t feel any positive effect and noticed a bit of anxiety and anger, which is not normal for me. I wondering if I need a higher dosage, or just a different medication.

[@rachelanita]

@@AForEh Good to know! I'm on Concerta and it's been working great for me. Have you tried Concerta or Adderall?

[@olivialakyn]

After watching dozens of ADHD videos, yours is the one that rings the most true with me. From childhood memories to alcoholism is college to uncontrollable exhaustion on a daily basis. Thank you for sharing ❤

[@rachelanita]

Thanks so much for your comment -- it really reminds me that I need to keep making content. I hope things are better for you now. Definitely subscribe for more ADHD things :)

[@Amber-kn3sb]

I'm so glad to hear you talk about the exhaustion. I'm also sober after years of alcoholism and addiction, and after I'd been sober a while I was feeling SOOO tired all the time! I figured I couldn't have ADHD because I was able to do good at work and, you know was TIRED all the time! Turns out there's research that is starting to be done about the overlap between untreated ADHD and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Anyway, it was validating to watch your video. Thanks for this and glad to hear things are better for you now!

[@rachelanita]

Thanks so much for your comment Amber. The exhaustion is SO real. I would 100% look into ADHD... so many of the people who have commented on this video have come back months later to tell me about their new diagnosis and how it's changed their life. I hope this happens with you.

[@shoshanaeri8035]

Hi, I'm so interested to know bc I have chronic fatigue syndrome (was fine as a kid, thank Gd) As an adult I started to have this unexplained intense exhaustion, but have other family members who have ADHD and felt like there was an overlap...would you mind to send a link to research you have seen/more info on this topic? Thanks so much!

[@rachelanita]

europepmc.org/article/med/17285103/reload=0 kclpure.kcl.ac.uk/portal/files/58727981/Rogers_2016_CFSvADHD_accepted.docx_2.pdf here are a few links!

[@shoshanaeri8035]

@@rachelanita Thanks so much!!! Hope you're doing well ☺

[@cole6383]

The worst part about all of your experiences are that people who don't have it don't understand. Someone told me "you can't just blame your ADHD on everything" I struggle to pay attention to people unless I'm focusing on something else entirely. It's a weird dichotomy where in order to pay attention to someone I completely need to pay attention to something else entirely. Luckily I mostly can manage my ADHD quirks but It sucks where people can't be patient or understanding.

[@rachelanita]

Seriously! Yeah, people who haven't experienced it themselves can lack that compassion. I completely feel that second line... it sometimes helps me to pay attention to people speaking if I'm playing on my switch or phone.

[@Tom-zg6sb]

Do you find your think about things irrelevant to your life

[@Shannrocket]

This whole video is so validating! I'm 29 and on a 6-8 month waiting list for an ADHD consultation. In the meantime, I'm struggling massively with my job, social life, fatigue, brain function, and ability to just DO STUFF. I've heard so many people say meds absolutely turned their lives around, so I'm feeling hopeful. I'm glad you got your diagnosis eventually, even if it did take 26 years!

[@rachelanita]

I'm so glad you commented.. thanks so much. I hope you are able to get the ADHD consultation ASAP and get some answers... so that you're able to continue your life.

[@stoweby]

I know this isn't for everyone but I got so incredibly frustrated about trying to find a provider (more than a year) that I signed up for the online consultation website called Done. Paid out of my own pocket and got my diagnosis and treatment plan within a week. Sucks to pay out of pocket but It was worth it for me.

[@EsmereldaPea]

Check out the channel How to ADHD for management/coping strategies. Made a HUGE difference for me. I just got my DX this week and just started on my meds, so rewatching many of those videos.

[@stoweby]

@@EsmereldaPea I recently joined that community as well. They seem like a really supportive group of like-minded (pun intended) people. I've also downloaded some audiobooks to listen to while working to give me some extra tools to help me break my bad habits.

[@valdemar0204]

Why is it taking so long? I got diagnosed online and started taking Adderall in under 2 weeks

[@opheliaquinn5192]

I just love the fact that we are so sceptic about taking the ADHD meds at first and then it’s like wow i can do the dishes now 😂 I was diagnosed when I was almost 30, so can relate 100%. Glad You’re doing much better now!

[@rachelanita]

Yup -- it's hard to take another medication... but really for a lot of people, it just works!

[@pinkpaprika8410]

When I started taking medication, I was reminded of an old advertisement „put a tiger in your motor“! I didn‘t go zooming off like Speedy Gonzales, but I felt more balanced and focused. When I started wool-gathering, it meant I‘d forgotten to take my last dose… it was cool to feel in control again.

[@rachelanita]

Exactly!!! They say people without ADHD who take medication just become super intense!!! But people with it... finally feel like normal productive people. It's cool.

[@BigTough]

The dishes. I was excited to put myself to the test after taking myself to t he Dr, once I started meds I took out the garbage and did the dishes and was like, wow, so that's what that's supposed to feel like.

[@rachelanita]

Isn't that shocking! Literally such simple things that used to feel impossible. It's still hard... but it doesn't feel impossible now.

[@angieorellana8491]

Thank you for sharing!!! I got diagnosed 2 weeks ago and I started Adderall and yesterday I literally cleaned all of my house and did laundry and folded EVERYTHING 😊 Im so proud of you at how far you’ve come!

[@rachelanita]

That's amazing Angie! I'm so glad you were able to see immediate changes like I was. How old were you at diagnosis?

[@dcop23]

Just wanted to say that this video popped on my feed randomly about 4 months ago. I had a little extra time that day to listen to your story and journey with ADHD. What I thought would be something different to learn about and fill 20 minutes of my day turned into a revelation about my own life. I wasn’t expecting all the points you hit and that even inattentive ADHD existed. I thought I had my quirks and that I wasn’t perfect at everything. But 4 months ago after watching your video and at 37 years old, I was diagnosed with having Inattentive ADHD. Just wanted to say thank you for sharing your story. It has unlocked a few things for me and helped me let go of the “why am I like this” feelings I’ve had from time to time in my life. So thank you again, you’ve really helped me.

[@rachelanita]

I want to thank you SO much for your comment. This really means so much for me. I am so happy you were able to get your diagnosis. It can be hard to be so vulnerable but it is made worth it by stories like yours. Please keep me updated!

[@riekalehto7609]

All of your symptoms are identical to what I have experienced my whole life, especially the chronic fatigue, clumsiness, and brain fog the past few years. I am going to look into testing to see if I have ADHD. Thank you for sharing your story!!

[@rachelanita]

Yes, please get tested! It has seriously changed my life. Completely. Let me know how it goes or if you need tips advocating for yourself and getting your doctor to listen to you

[@riekalehto7609]

Will do! I am already seeing a therapist so hopefully she will be open to the idea! I appreciate your support!! 💕

[@rachelanita]

@@riekalehto7609 No worries! I just want everyone to feel the best they. can :)

[@SRF-vm3fy]

@@riekalehto7609 did you tested?

[@riekalehto7609]

@@SRF-vm3fy Not yet! I have other priorities right now, but that is on my list of things to do 😊

[@asasial1977]

I’m male 45. Been called lazy my entire life. Almost everything you have talked about I have issues with. I’ve flat told doctors I have inattentive ADHD. My son was diagnosed at 6. Even with that the doctors even basically tell me I’m lazy. I don’t know many lazy people who join the Marines, but apparently I did according to them.

[@rachelanita]

Thank you for commenting! I would definitely try to get a second opinion... that's wild! I hope you find treatment :)

[@TheStarBlack]

You need to find another doctor, that's a terrible response.

[@asasial1977]

@@TheStarBlack it’s not one doctor It’s pretty much all of them. The VA at its finest.

[@asasial1977]

@@TheStarBlack these aren’t isolated incidents, they are pattern that go back decades

[@asasial1977]

I severely dislocated my shoulder. I had to be completely sedated to have it reduced (put back in socket) I had bruises from my knee to going up my neck, and almost halfway across my chest and back. 1/4 of my body was bruised, road rashes, and raw. My arm was swelled 3 times it’s normal size. I was called a lier and had my ass chewed when I said Mortin wasn’t doing anything for the pain. My arm was partially and temporarily paralyzed. I could move my elbow some and my hand which was numb. Especially with my arm this has been sn issue to this day over 20 years later. 15 years before they finished decided to do surgery. Frayed tendon, bone impingement, 2 tares one to rotator cuff tho not huge, 9 cysts, and I’m sure a few other things I do t recall. Years of being blown off before that, lost good jobs because I literally could not do the work without major pain, and risk of further injury. My hand would go completely numb at times. They still don’t believe my hand goes numb. Even after Ulnar nerve release surgery (“funny bone”) It has destroyed my life. I was homeless for 7 years The va never cared. You absolutely have to fight them tooth and nail for everything EVERYTHING!!! To the point I have completely lost my mind on them more than once. I’m tired of trying Tired of asking for help and getting treated like a lying piece of trash.

[@SoEmmaz1ng]

Sis, it is UNCANNY how much my experience paralleled your story. I have been formally diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and C-PTSD since 2016, but did not get diagnosed with ADHD - combination type - until 6 months ago. It was super frustrating to have my health team put me on different types of and combinations of anxiety and depression medications. It was so mentally taxing and emotionally unsettling to go through various medications and doses for years without having any of my core problems of lethargy/fatigue, lack of motivation, social aversion, foggy memory/forgetfulness, clumsiness, losing damn near everything (talking about posessions) including my sanity, solved or helped at all. I was listening to biochemical podcasts, as I usually do, and was filtering thru ones related to depression and anxiety and motivation, since those were my diagnoses. In the Podcast it was mentioned that a lack of norepinephrine leads to symptoms of lack of motivation or anxiety or depression, and then They mentioned something about people with ADHD suffering w this. I never considered adhd because my parents always told me my symptoms are due to my lack of self discipline and willingness to improve myself, but I remembered 2 teachers in my life saying they thought I had adhd, but in the 2010s saying that was kind of a meme (kinda like, oh I'm gonna kms lmaoo) so I thought they were just joking/voicing frustration at my behavior (ie fidgeting, impulsively answering or talking over people, finishing class work in 5 minutes and working on next week's stuff in class altho I would lose the work after shoving it somewhere in the void of my backpack). I tried to get an appointment to get diagnosed that would be covered under my insurance, since adhd stuff is so multifaceted and expensive, but all 10 places within 25 miles of me were booked 3 to 12 months out. I took a risk by taking a test online at this sketchy site called adhd online, but I got my results back in 3 days and then took it to a virtual adhd therapist (psychiatrist?) On a service advertised by Aetna, got on Vyvanse, and gOd. The whole world changed. It was like, I was actually present, and able to hear people like they talked TO me instead of feeling like they talked AT me, I could focus on my work and be engaged (before being able to focus I would get so frustrated that I couldn't focus on my work altho I was super interested in it and WANTED to be engaged), and I can actually remember names (well, better than before, which was never remembering names, even 5 minutes after asking them for the 3rd time) and I misplace items less often. Anyway, your story is so validating and your work putting it together is so SO important to us navigating through similar experiences and being failed by doctors/society due to our age/sex/zip code/whatever other biases. Thank you for your effort and diligence qween and I truly hope you continue finding happiness and fulfillment in your beautiful life.

[@rachelanita]

Sis!!! I'm glad you were able to get a diagnosis-- and that's amazing that your world has completely changed! Something amazing about ADHD meds is that they work immediately... which is wild because I feel like most medications don't do that. Thank you for commenting :)

[@withyoctopus]

:( they never told me in the 2010s :(

[@sunnydays9144]

Diagnosed at 32 ✋️ Finally realizing I'm not a bad person for having trouble with structure, routine, building habits... is such a consolation. I understand why I couldn't make myself do certain things and know that I sometimes just need to approach things differently. I'm very happy for you!

[@mariaclaudiaricalde3468]

Hi Isabelle If you don’t mind, how do you approach things differently? Some tips would be helpful ☺️

[@rachelanita]

Yes-- we're not bad people! We're just different! I'm happy for you too :)

[@margauxalamo8455]

The head feeling heavy is so accurate. Once on the medicine I told my husband my head feels light 😂 my eyes didn’t feel weighed down, I could do things because I wanted to, I had the urge to, when before it was a struggle. Still feeling tired though after the first few days and still want to sleep, so I’ll be talking to my psychiatrist about it to se what we can do to fix it. I too used to sleep ALL the time and got crap over it so much. You’re being lazy, unmotivated, not going to go anywhere if you don’t change, etc. It was never on purpose and trust I would love to not feel exhausted and sleepy constantly. It’s not a fun way to live :( so happy to hear you’re doing better!

[@rachelanita]

Seriously! The medication really helps with that weighty, heavy feeling. I'm so glad you're doing better as well! Thinking of you.

[@loadingmikke7451]

I just started today on adhd medication at 34 years old. I hope i have a good reaction to it, can say I feel a little less sleepy.

[@rachelanita]

How has the medication been working for you in the last 12 days??

[@loadingmikke7451]

@@rachelanita oh like a wonder i can say. Not so fatigued, more empathic at my work in a elderly home and can focus more. Also less procrastination before cleaning my apartment. I've folded clothes and sorted them, that I've been putting off for months. I'm gonna start new routines also.

[@margauxalamo8455]

@@rachelanita not sure if my body got used to it or not, but definitely feel tired. I do work on the computer a lot, so that may be why I feel tired, because once I’m done, I have much more energy. It definitely helps with work though, because normally I’d feel so dead (worse than now). I can definitely feel the difference when I’m not medicated. I do think I need the adhd therapy on top to help get out of a funk, but that could be the depression and stress too and that is not Adhd related :) I still highly recommend the medication if you have adhd. It is trial and error to find what fits your body the best and how you react to it. There are so many different ones out there :)

[@kdaskus176]

WOW!! You are describing my childhood and young adulthood. I was diagnosed with ADHD at 40 and my life has drastically changed since getting on medication and learning more about my diagnosis. I have combined type which makes so much sense to me now. I felt so alone and different from others growing. Now, I know that I was different but Thank you for sharing you experience!

[@TheEnhancedMan]

Great to hear you got over the alcoholism! I was even later getting diagnosed with ADHD at 34, the Concerta has changed my life.

[@rachelanita]

thank you so much! yeah, im so glad concerta has worked so well for us 😍 hope this video was helpful in some way...

[@randolphschreiner4479]

@The Enhanced Man Has your life really changed. I'm 38 and am afraid this could be another dead end. I've learned how to cope well but it is hollowing out my soul. Not sure how much longer I can merely cope.

[@TheEnhancedMan]

@@randolphschreiner4479 Yeah I've had to change all sort of things, I had low testosterone too. But combining all that with exercise & a good diet has made a big difference.

[@randolphschreiner4479]

@@TheEnhancedMan Awesome, I’m happy for you. There is little virtue in living an unhealthy life when we do not need to.

[@therickestpicklerick]

I'm 33 and about to start titration now! I'm excited and I hope it really helps.

[@kylieruan6273]

I'm 33. I definitely believe I have ADHD and is currently undiagnosed. Thank you for this video. There were so many of your symptoms that I identify with. And to hear that your life has changed drastically and how productive you have become, I will reach out to a psychologist this week to set up my appointment. The guilt I feel when I don't remember things, or being inattentive during conversations, or neglecting my friends. Everything is so overwhelming all the time.

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for sharing Kylie. I really appreciate it. Please keep us updated on what happens. I hope you're able to get the help you need.

[@doveknight7150]

I am so proud of you for sticking with the search to find out exactly what was the issue, most that are not diagnosed don't have that drive to hunt it down until there is finally an answer that shows results!

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much! I definitely only hade the drive because I was finally sober, and was starting to see serious results in therapy... I was just in the right mental place to do it!

[@Tom-zg6sb]

I’m trying to rise above it in the meantime

[@sunnycurtis3236]

Diagnosed in my sixties. Like I went through the looking glass into a new reality. Thanks for this.

[@rachelanita]

Seriously. Thanks so much for your comment!

[@wendyhannan2454]

I was diagnosed at 76. I have a feeling most of us self diagnose, before having it confirmed by a professional in the ADHD field. Thank you for your honesty and this video, it’s hit home for a lot of people.✅

[@rachelanita]

Wow, at 76! Thank you so much for commenting. We can get diagnoses at all ages!

[@AlicesEntertainment]

Struggled with focus, restlessness and executive dysfunction my whole life. Everytime i tried to express my struggles i just got told to «stop complaining, be better, you are too emotional» etc. Got severe CFS/ME at 16. housebound and bedridden. As ive gotten slightly better my other symptoms(ADHD) got more prominent again. I then stumbled uppon ADHD videos on youtube and i thought i should learn about it since i have it running in my family. Everything clicked after learning about this. Got my diagnosis this year at 28 years old..

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I appreciate it. I'm glad you got your diagnosis.... are things much better for you now?

[@AlicesEntertainment]

@@rachelanita Am slightly better, but still housebound most of the time due to fatigue. Able to do the things I have to and dont require help cleaning and stuff anymore. I have read about alot of connections with CFS/ME and ADHD lately and medication giving peoples lives back, so I am hopefull for the first time in many years. Getting an appointment after the summer I hope🙏 Hope you are doing good aswell❤️

[@rachelanita]

Thank you for coming back and sharing your experience! I hope things get better for you and I'm thinking about you!

[@TheMcKenzieHaus]

My life completely changed once I was diagnosed and revived treatment. I kept a job and became financially stable. Went to school and was able to complete courses I thought was impossible. I am so resentful and angry that people called me lazy, instead of trying to find the root cause of all my inconsistencies.

[@rachelanita]

Thank you for sharing your experience. How long have you been on treatment and what is it?

[@GaGaObession]

I just got diagnosed at 26 - just over a week ago :( I feel so relieved yet now confused for the next things in my journey! thank you SO much for sharing your journey & being so honest, really appreciate it and it helped so much xx

[@lullustration5775]

Me too! I'm also 26 and got diagnosed this week. Really hope things will get better from here

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for your comment. I really hope things get better for you... please keep me updated on your journey :) 😍

[@GaGaObession]

@@rachelanita you're welcome & thank you for your reply 💛 keep up the great channel! and aww thank you - I will do!

[@rachelanita]

@@GaGaObession Thank you so much!

[@sarahar616]

Thankyou so much for being so open and honest. Your helping so many who suffer with shame in silence 🙏❤️

[@dailyfinancialliteracy]

"If i resolved the symptoms of my anxiety / depression maybe my symptoms would lessen" this hit so close to home, thousands of dollars in supplements and 5-10 different anxiety / depression meds and 4 years later i'm going to an ADHD specialist in a week an a half, can't barely wait!!!

[@rachelanita]

Seriously... I tried out so many things and still supplement my medicine with other things as well. I hope you get answers :)

[@dailyfinancialliteracy]

@@rachelanita Thanks rach! subbed and also following your journey

[@rachelanita]

@@dailyfinancialliteracy Thank you so much. Please keep us updated on your appt. with your specialist. I'd really appreciate it :)

[@Linalinalane]

@@rachelanita hi Rachel, what do you supplement your medicine with? I do fish oil but am looking for more support I was just curious what has worked for you if you are willing to share….

[@rachelanita]

I take fish oil, vitamin C, ashwaganda, curcurmin, l-theanine! some others as well i forget the name of!

[@TeamJesusGo]

I'm a nurse, I work in psychiatric clinic. Gt diagnosed at 42yrs old. I made it through nursing school out of fear. I have been on medication for about 10 months and my life has taken a drastic turn. However, I still struggle with my energy, but it's way better.

[@rachelanita]

I totally. get the "got through it out of fear" -- that's how I got through everything and became semi-successful as well. I'm. so glad to not be operating out of fear anymore!

[@charlie5115]

Hiya, ER nurse here who recently got diagnosed at 29! Totally get the fear part, think that’s how I got through my first years of nursing.. And great to hear you got better on meds, I’m supposed to start this fall. Btw I really recommend the podcast "The Neurodivergent Nurse" if you haven’t, especially the burnout episode💓

[@devrajsrivastav49]

I ABSOLUTELY HOW HARD SHE'S TRYING TO STAY ON THE TOPIC , TYPICAL FELLOW INATTENTIVE ADHD'ER ;) THANK YOU FOR YOUR EFFORTS RACHEL ! LISTENING TO YOUR JOURNEY I TOO HOPE TO GET MY DIAGNOSIS SOON ENOUGH , I'M JUST 19 THOUGH :)

[@rachelanita]

LOL! you noticed. its SO hard to stay on topic when i make videos.... i have to edit out so much lol. i hope you get your diagnosis soon

[@joannamoon9888]

I’ve just been diagnosed. It blows my mind that this is a thing. It never occurred that all these struggles had a cause. I’m about to start medication very soon so I’m extremely hopeful. I’m 26 too and also struggle with OCD, anxiety and binge eating.

[@rachelanita]

Thank you for commenting. Please come back and let us know how it goes.. would love to hear that you've found what works!

[@kiiabby]

I hope it helps!

[@rachelanita]

@@kiiabby I'm rooting for you!

[@raleemay]

SAME. Except I’m 35. Life has always been a struggle.

[@iamyou111]

It’s so important that you healed your ptsd and depression before you used the adhd meds to cope , im sure you feel like a new woman now! I’m excited to start adhd meds too

[@rachelanita]

It really is so important! I may make another video about how it is important to heal those things first... as some people may jump straight to ADHD meds. I think ADHD meds would be safer if people resolved their other issues first.

[@guilhermealveslopes]

@@rachelanita The problem is resolving these problems when you come from a lower class family and live in a countryside city/town/thingy I think I might have some of these comorbdsiditibities, I do take meds for anxiety and stuff, but my childhood has been pretty traumatic in terms of socializing, and I often find myself on edge, very sensitive to stimuli (sound and lights) and on mindful mode on how I act near people to not seem weird. But right now I am in the middle of the process of changing my life style, been going to the gym and cutting back a lot on sugar. I think that after I have that solved first, then I will have the minimum "state of body" to pursue a life in the capital. Rn I am working as a software dev remotely for my college teacher, he basically contacted me a year ago and asked If I wanted to work with him, so we take on some contracts and solve them together. funny thing about mental energy when you have ADHD is that ANYTHING and EVERYTHING takes energy from you. Like, I am way more productive at my work when I dont go to the gym and just stay at home, but in the long term my anxiety makes me batshit crazy, whilst when I got to the gym, I wont be as productive and do way less, but I will at least have worked on my state of body a bit. I think that if the gym was absolute silence, had no noise, low light condition, people behaved very methodically and orderly and werent all over the place, then it wouldnt take so much mental energy from me. Its like, in the same way that you cant concentrate well in one thing, it's as if your attention is constantly divided through everything that is accessible to your peripheral senses, EVERY IS BEING TAKEN IN ALL AT ONCE, the brain is like "blerp, wanna sleep, blerp, wanna mindless entertainment on youtube, blerp forget all your urgent matters"

[@rachelanita]

This is so real! I especially feel the fact that everythingG!!! saps energy from you -- even mental energy. It's really wild.

[@vivianapesantez1443]

Watching how your life has changed makes me want to cry of happiness. It gives me hope that I’ll be able to change my life like you one day. I honestly have so many symptoms and I’ve tried to hide them for so long and I’m nearing 29 and I can’t take it anymore and have decided to get help! I also have alcoholism like you and can’t pay attention to anyone! It’s so frustrating. Thank you for this video ❤

[@rachelanita]

This comment makes me so happy! You can totally change your life too. I really hope you get help -- what do you plan to do?

[@tompearce6312]

Thanks for your video. I got diagnosed at around 39, can't remember the exact date. Explained a lifetime of giving up on things, struggling, getting told off by bosses or just feeling awful about messing things up at work. Also made me understand how much I was drinking to self-medicate my restlessness and insomnia. Now I don't drink really. I did hardcore drinking and drugs in my teens too. Could never sleep well, and still struggle with tiredness, but it's gradually getting better I think. I use a blue light thing to help me wake up each day. I can't take meds as I have co-morbid ocd which it makes worse, but self-help kind of strategies make a big difference :)

[@rachelanita]

I thought I responded to this! It's seriously such a relief to receive a diagnosis. Yeah, using substances definitely numbed it all out for a while... but glad to be free of that. I'll look into the blue light... hopefully that can help :)

[@tompearce6312]

@@rachelanita You can get one which gradually lights up the room I think. Mine just turns on. I read or go on my phone for half an hour while it shines on my face from the side. It seems to help me feel less sleepy in the mornings. I used to crash at about 10.30 and just lie on the sofa for half an hour but can push through now.

[@JustErics101]

I relate so much to this. I’m 27 and was diagnosed with ADHD last month. I was told since my youth that I probably had it because my brother did (why I wasn’t diagnosed back then is a mystery). Can really relate to the part about being tired all the time and sitting on the side lines watching other people. Thank you for sharing this, it was very helpful.

[@sofialevina13]

Oh my god! I have been diagnosed with ADHD this year and nobody, nobody at all mentioned that my pretty chronic fatigue might be caused by ADHD! Somehow, I didn't make this connection either... Thank you so much; your video has opened my eyes!

[@rachelanita]

Yes! So-- I actually don't know if the chronic fatigue has been caused by ADHD. What I do know is that there are currently studies looking at the correlation -- because many people with ADHD also experience things like CFS, etc. -- it's very common. I also know that as soon as I started ADHD treatment... my fatigue was WAY bettered... which is typically why I lump it in with ADHD! My ADHD meds solved it so it's ADHD lol! But I actually think they might add it to the diagnostic criteria in the future... it just seems so common, especially in adults! Thank you SO much for your comment Sofia!

[@Quarashi1]

The sad thing is, diagnosis or not, people in the given person's life will never truly believe it. People relate and parallel everything to their own reality and just don't understand how things like this are possible. I am happy that your life has gotten better and hope that others experience the same victory and relief.

[@rachelanita]

Yes, it can be tough. I still struggle with my husband sometimes. For example, a few days ago I was discussing with him how everything is a huge choice for me -- Should I wake up at 8 or 8:15? Should I take my medication before tylenol today? Should I take my tylenol first and see if my headache goes away before taking my medication because i know it wont work a s well if I have a headache? Should I eat breakfast or will that tire me out? He was shocked at how everything I do is based on ensuring I have an OK day... and how much I struggle.

[@irenelysia5503]

same with me, iam 26 yrs old and i had missdiagnosed from just dyslexia to ptsd and finally i know why i always get tired, sleeping overday, forget everything, cant read something for just a few minutes, and etc... thx for your sharing... keep going and spirit ❤️

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for sharing your story Irene. Have you been able to get treatment for ADHD?

[@nannybananers]

I am 46 and was just diagnosed yesterday. Your testimony gives me hope . Thank you !

[@rachelanita]

Thank you for your comment Shannon... I love to hear it!

[@kiiabby]

You so accurately described my experience before being medicated. I just thought I was going mad and didn't understand why I was failing so spectacularly at things other people seemed to find easy.

[@hannahjohn9154]

I got frusrated having this ADHD , but with the use of dr imenherbal on KZbin herbal remedy , i have been able to get rid of ADHD

[@rachelanita]

Seriously... same. I feel that so completely. But, we have a community here! And we're not alone!

[@EsmereldaPea]

Like failing at LIFE. Constantly. I've lost so many jobs I've lost count. Not because I was bad at the job but for reasons likely related to the ADHD.

[@rachelanita]

Ugh I feel that :(

[@hannahjohn9154]

@@EsmereldaPea get in touch with Dr imenherbal on KZbin for powerful herbal medicine to get rid of it

[@scaramel122]

When you brought up the clumsyness it really hit home. I haven't been diagnosed with ADHD yet but I remember specifically a while ago I had been constantly spilling coffee and tea everywhere, in my bag, on my books, and even on my electronics (computer/calculator). One day in particular I remember making hot drinks for my mom and I and as I went to grab the sugar I didn't notice a paper towel roll that knocked down on the drink, it got everywhere. I remember I went to my room cried a little about how I couldn't do anything right and then got angry about 'crying over spilled milk'. Luckily my mom tidied up the mess and I remade the coffee, that day was pretty exhausting though, I also stopped drinking coffee for around three weeks due to simple frustration.

[@rachelanita]

Crying over spilled milk! Literally!! I am the same way. It's constant. Just not paying attention to little things. It's such a small thing that is a huge indicator that there is an attention issue... Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment. 😍😍

[@sabssabssabs]

This video is insane. I literally have the same issues as you did before being diagnosed. I want to talk about this with my psychologist because this thing is making me extremely anxious at work. I can't concentrate on my tasks. I make silly mistakes ALL. THE. TIME. Sending an email takes me legit an hour when it could be done in 10 minutes. I deal with depression and I can't rememeber anything from my childhood... I used to be super anxious to the point of getting super sick as a teenager. It got better until this new job. When I tell yall my hair falls out from the stress... And I don't want to quit my job bc I love everything about it. I think the worst feeling is that I KNOW I can do it, I have the capability to but I can't concentrate. I want to get this checked because it's ruining my work and it's making me feel depressed again... The feeling of "something is wrong with me" is such a mood. I thought it was me being introvert and a drama queen lmao but I feels like there is something REALLY wrong inside. I hope I can figure it out too.

[@rachelanita]

Thanks so much for your detailed comment Sabrina. There are so many of us dealing with the same issues -- I'm glad my video is helping others realize they're not alone. Are you going to seek out help from a psychiatrist? Please keep me updated!

[@eatplantsdaily]

Omgggg! When you read the common symptoms, the part about keeping up with friends, it really clicked in for me! Yes I’ve been struggling, keeping up and in communication with them. Calling/texting back is like sorry to those people! And even at work I jump from task to task and have a hard time completing tasks and prioritizing them. Also it’s been affecting my own passions like being consistent on KZbin. Then I get so ashamed by not have taken action that I freeze more! Thank you for sharing! Time for me to get diagnosed and see what options can help! 🥰 **Why was typing this comment also hard for me lol & why did I wake up in the middle of the night to research this 😳

[@rachelanita]

Sorry for such a late response! It really is so crazy -- all the symptoms we have in common. I hope you have been able to find a doctor to see?

[@dragonswordstriker]

Rachel, thank you for sharing your story. In the last few months, three different people told me I have ADHD based on Some of my peculiarities- namely constant distraction, constantly picking up new hobbies and just losing myself in said hobbies (I would always try to "quit" my hobbies to control the distraction only to replace it with a new hobby soon after). When I looked into ADHD, I felt like it explains a lot of my childhood and adult life a lot. As a kid, I was prone to stealing, had a reading obsession (I would reread books 5-21 times straight), and inconsistent grades. As an adult, I still have a lot of the problems I had as a kid like following direction, trusting authority, and submitting and completing work. Weird "tics" (noises and facial expressions) as a child have gone away but I still fidget and pick at my fingers until they bleed. It took me much longer to graduate than it should have (my report cards are basically "bright, but needs to do homework"), and I haven't been able to hold down a job because I can't understand how to behave with authority and I don't know what people expect me to do when I offend them without knowing I have. Physically, I share your experience with chronic aches and pains, fatigue, brain fog, headaches, and a need to nap during the day. Thanks for sharing these symptoms! I'm glad you mentioned these because ADHD really seems to explain everything in my life.

[@rachelanita]

Thanks so much for your well thought out comment and sharing your story with me. I really appreciate it. I hope you find concrete answers to your struggles, as I know how debilitating these symptoms can be. ❤

[@ladibugz]

Thank you very much for this video. I'm going to share with with my family. I don't have an official diagnosis yet andnever thought I could possibly have ADHD because I was never hyper. I always felt a bit odd but chalked it up to being a nerd (according to my classmates). I was smart in school, loved to read, and had art hobbies. However, I was always zoned out in daydreams. If I could help it, I never did homework until the morning of or in class right before it was due. Procrastination and fatigue followed me into adulthood. I feel like I am running to catch up or am being dragged through life instead of being confidently in control. I am clumsy and constantly bump into or drop things. My house is a wreck. There have been a few times that I thought I would lose my job because of being late almost every day and making costly mistakes. The constant tiredness is crushing. If I had been diagnosed as a kid, I would be a completely different person now, the person I daydreamed I was. Anyway, I'm hopeful I can still get some things done in my life with meds and other skills.

[@menamgamg]

Great video and im glad your life has improved so much! i'm 29 and ive struggled for as long as i can remember - i relate to a lot of ADHD symptoms but my main problem is that i procrastinate to an extreme level - i can also sleep endlessly just like you described and i hate it so much because i simply cannot get out of bed in the morning. All of It has definitely ruined my life up until now and even though i really desperately want to get important things done, i just can't. I'm currently waiting for an assessment but the wait time is at least a year in Sweden :( Me and my girlfriend recently had to break up after 12 years because i have been stuck and getting nowhere in life for so long due to my problems, and it has been the most painful thing ive ever gone through. We both thought we would be together forever but in the end things just got too much for her with having to take care of someone who couldn't be an adult.. I threw away a wonderful future with her and i'll probably never forgive myself for it. I definitely also feel that bitterness because i wasn't diagnosed early and could have avoided all of this - i ofc cannot be 100% sure i have it but i've done a lot of research on it and it seems very likely.

[@rachelanita]

Yeah, it's so hard... procrastinating can be so difficult. You should sub-- I have a new video coming out with some techniques I use to not procrastinate.... for one i'm using a new app called Finch... its a bit different than other to-do apps. I'm so sorry- that's hard. Are you able to get ADHD meds from a regular medical provider in your country by listing out your symptoms? You can get some here sometimes -- but a psych is definitely better. I'd also look up something like "Sweden ADHD diagnosis reddit" to try to get advice from others. i'm so sorry about your relationship :( It is so hard when this happens... we can put so much blame on ourselves when it's our illness. My husband and I still struggle sometimes-- but overall, getting my diagnosis and treatment has been a great help. I would be firm that you think you have it with any provider you see!

[@rachelanita]

www.reddit.com/r/ADHD/comments/u3vok4/getting_diagnosed_in_sweden/

[@menamgamg]

​@@rachelanita Thanks for taking the time to reply

[@rachelanita]

@@menamgamg Thanks for responding :) Yeah, I really hope that you're able to find the help you need... and SOON. When you see the person who is diagnosing you, make sure to be FIRM about getting the diagnosis and your symptoms. I know some doctors will just brush people off. I hope you found Finch helpful :) I'm still using it, but know it isn't for everyone!

[@menamgamg]

@@rachelanita i actually went to an assessment yesterday! I ended up having to do it private and paying for it in full, which was stupid expensive, but i think it's worth it. Gotta wait a few weeks for the results now but everyone i've talked to seem to agree with me that i have ADD (in sweden we have 3 different diagnoses: adhd/add/combo) but they ofc didn't guarantee anything. I did try to be as clear as possible why i believe i have it, but also said that i have trouble expressing my thoughts/feelings and i was worried not giving them enough info and forgetting important things.. but i got the impression that they got everything they needed. And about the app: i obviously forgot to check it out but ill try to remember looking into it now hahah.. edit: i downloaded the app so now i can't forget about it :D

[@chillwalker]

I was diagnosed with 42. And everything made sense. As you said. Wish you well!

[@rachelanita]

Wishing you well too! :) Thanks for your comment.

[@chillwalker]

@@rachelanita Hey...so much disinformation on this topic, the good stuff must be rewarded. And, that the "fatigue" part with 16 hours sleeping is an ADHD symptom too AND DOES NOT BELONG to a serious depression most Adults without the (adhd) diagnosis are developing was a new fact for me. You and me..we totally got the same type. A little lifehack dealing with people that still don't believe in ADHD: "Be my guest and take one of my pills. If he/she really does it...whait 40 minutes and say: "And THATS what I feel without. 24/7." Works every time. ;-)

[@rachelanita]

Seriously! I'm glad so many people are speaking up on their experiences as well! Haha yeah -- to the naysayers, I don't have much to say... I've got thick-skin and will typically joke back!!

[@chillwalker]

@@rachelanita So. We can summerize that ADHD won't hold you back. Maybe quite the opposite. Good for you, Girl! And if I ever do a Track somehow ADHD related...I will hide "Rachel Anita" somewhere. Promise! Have a glorios Tuesday. Cheers from Germany. (Edit) F*ck...and now the Track is completely in my head...but to make ADHD audible (whats happening), this production would totaly blow any time management and Budget...But reading this should do too...^^

[@chloesilverman1283]

I totally relate to this! I get that overwhelming tiredness and the heavy feeling. When I take my ADHD medication, I feel like a normal human with stable moods and energy again. I got a diagnosis at 14 years old and am so glad I did. I don't really remember much of my childhood because I couldn't focus well and didn't absorb a lot at school.

[@rachelanita]

Yea -- whenever I would describe that feeling to people, they wouldn't really understand. I'm glad you got a diagnosis so early. What has your experience with medication been like over the years?

[@TheLiquidCat]

That's funny, people often say it's weird that I can't remember much of my childhood. In fact, I find it hard to remember a lot about my life. I have a good memory for stuff I read etc, but stuff about me feels like a foggy blur. Thank you for bringing it up.

[@mixedupmenopausaladhd3999]

I’m 49 and just got diagnosed. Thinking back through my life, every screwed up thing that happened can be attributed to my undiagnosed ADHD. I hope parents and schools get better at detecting this. What a waste of life. Things are better now, at least.

[@rachelanita]

Thank you for your comment -- I really appreciate it. I'm so sorry to hear it's been so difficult for you. It really can feel so lonely. I'm so glad things are better for you... how would you say they have improved?

[@voteforjefe4017]

Tried depression treatment on and off for years, having been diagnosed with chronic depression in high school. Since graduating it’s been really hard keeping a job for too long. I love working, and put all my effort into it but I get really burnt out and completely shut down occasionally, often just walking out of the job site and never looking back. I started college in 2018, 4 years after high school and immediately fell back in love with learning. Unfortunately I had to withdraw last year after being unable to cope with what I assumed was just a really bad depressive period. I’m 26 and I’m on my second medical leave from work in like 6 months right now. I decided to try treatment again after learning that undiagnosed ADHD can present as depression and started Concerta, too. Giving therapy another shot as well, to unwrap a very stressful childhood that feels really hazy. Still working on it, but for the first few days after starting concerta I felt better than I had in so long. Cooking meals, cleaning my space, all the stuff that I would constantly desire but also despair about not having the energy or focus to do. I’m still in the early days of what will be a very long journey. I’m grateful to have a strong support system at home and realize that not everyone is so fortunate, but if there’s anybody thinking about treatment please don’t hesitate! It can take a long time and it might not always work at first but it’s absolutely worth overcoming anything that’s weighing you down. There are tons of (usually free) mental health resources out there if you look at your local area’s department of health and human services.

[@rachelanita]

Thanks for sharing... I 100% recommend doing therapy for you childhood.... I feel I would have SO much more issues had I not done aggressive therapy for my childhood related PTSD. I'm so glad that the Concerta has helped you... and thanks again for your comment

[@theodorawinter7361]

I relate so badly to the Chronic Fatigue part especially. I never really felt like I was depressed and even after I found out I was anemic and started taking iron to correct it, I was still tired. Sucks not feeling heard for years but I'm glad I know now, and I'm happy you're life has changed for the better :)

[@rachelanita]

Thanks so much for sharing Theodora! The chronic fatigue part is so difficult. I'm glad you know now too... and hope things are much better for you in the future!

[@Tom-zg6sb]

It’s like your a passenger in your body, your not fully there

[@bethanyrose9026]

I’m 28, almost 29 and I’ve been really thinking about all my signs and symptoms and have a long list. I’ve already been diagnosed with anxiety and depression and adhd runs in the family. I’m going to start the process of getting the diagnosis. So much of what you’re describing is how I’ve been feeling and it’s tough. No one understands it’s not that we want to be lazy it’s just so so difficult to find the motivation to do anything extra some days. Even my hobbies I avoid because I’m just tired and overwhelmed after work. Even on a good day.

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for you comment Bethany. I hope you"re able to get help --- I know how tough it can be -- but I understand. Please keep me updated on what happens!

[@donnayounger3922]

You have just described my life and exactly how I have felt all my adult life, the chronic fatigue, being constantly diagnosed and given meds for depression and anxiety. I was also diagnosed with ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome but no other help offered. I have had frequent burnout and had so much time off work sick or had to leave jobs due to always being depressed, anxious and burnt-out. I was finally diagnose with Inattentive ADHD last Dec 2023 at the age of 54... I'm still really struggling with my energy despite being on Methylphenidate. I'm awaiting an appointment with my Psychiatrist to look at trying other medications. I struggle to keep up with friendships and like you have always been known as 'Donna who needs to take frequent naps during the day', or am unreliable or always late. I have not had a boyfriend for so long as I struggle with the energy required to sustain a 'normal' relationship. My home is constantly chaotic, I can never seem to keep it tidy and organised which is how I like it best. Thank-you for sharing. I shall follow your page.

[@shweewoods4001]

Yes! I am 45 and am just realizing that I most likely have adhd . I would have never even considered it except for my daughter getting diagnosed and learning about it in order to help her. Thank you for making this video. I relate with so much of it.

[@rachelanita]

Thanks so much for your comment. I'm glad you were able to relate!

[@karleegordon8907]

Omg this is exactly how I became aware (at 32 yrs old) about my adhd. I completely changed after I quit drinking and started realizing something was wrong, I went from constantly wanting to be out and partying to (after I quit drinking excessively) having basically severe social anxiety, excessively tired after work/or just being around people, forgetfulness, being too tired to do basic tasks etc. this is very validating ♥️

[@rachelanita]

Wow, your story like mirrors mine! Totally get it... you're not alone.

[@marienettemallari2663]

My son was diagnosed with ADHD @ 21. So, I realized I have ADHD too as he is a copy of me. I have all the symptoms of ADHD. But I'm so happy that I know now what's wrong with me. Now I just need to focus on my super power😊 I am now 54 and excited to see my doctor to give me med for this condition.

[@rachelanita]

Wow! I'm glad youre excited. Definitely talk to your doctor about alternatives to meds and make sure you are aware of all side-effects if you decide to move forward with it! I hope you're able to find peace :)

[@angelasampayo936]

I was diagnosed at 32 an it was such a relief. Not because of the label, but because my treatment has changed so much. I feel understood now.

[@rachelanita]

Seriously! The treatment is life changing. What treatment did you receive?

[@bacchichoney]

I really truly believe I have adhd at this point (after months of researching and agonizing over it) but I'm so good at hiding a lot of my symptoms that I'm afraid that no one would believe me. I really want a diagnosis because I'm struggling and it's getting worse as I get older. But I know that adhd diagnosis requires interviews with parents and people around me so I worry that no one will vouch for my symptoms since I hide them so well from other people. I'm going to be a high school senior this year and I really wish I could get a diagnosis because I just hope to have this one high school year where I feel like a normal person. thanks for this video, it really makes me feel seen

[@rachelanita]

Thanks so much for your comment, it makes me feel less alone. I would ask for a proper assessment-- and explain to the people around you that are doing the assessment that you have been masking and do really struggle with these issues.

[@KE-xj9vm]

Thank you for sharing. I’m at the point of searching for what’s wrong with me and am down to basically it was to be ADHD, and same, sleep all day, appear to be lazy, dropping the ball at work completely. Can’t focus on listening and have to do something else at the same time. My kids always complain that I sleep all the time and forget so much. I’m ALWAYS late! All of everything you said. I’m 40 though. If I get diagnosed and experience the same life improvement then I’ll feel like I would have lost my entire 30s on suffering from it. You’ve really inspired me to book that psych appointment

[@rachelanita]

Hi! I'm sorry for the delay, I haven't felt up to responding to comments! But I'm so glad to read yours -- I'm so sorry you relate to my symptoms but it does sound quite similar to mine. Were you able to see a psych?

[@KE-xj9vm]

@@rachelanita no worries. I didn’t expect a response. Know what you mean by not being “up to” doing something. That’s my email at the moment 😂. I’ve got an appointment with a psych in 7 weeks

[@MarkElders]

I relate to so much of this. I had a sleep study done 6/7 years ago because I had chronic fatigue, and I was so convinced I had sleep apnea or something. I struggle to listen, even when I'm hearing and processing all the words. This has been a constant throughout my life. I did great in school, but I couldn't process lectures; I just read the textbooks directly instead. I have a doctor's appointment in a few weeks, and I'm going to bring up that I think I have ADHD.

[@rachelanita]

I'm glad you found my video! It's hard when you feel like you're alone. Have you been to your doctor's appointment yet?

[@MarkElders]

After leaving this comment, I scheduled an appointment with a psychiatrist. It's next week!

[@MarkElders]

I just got diagnosed with ADHD officially, at 32.

[@rachelanita]

YAY! Thank you so much for coming back and updating.... this will be so encouraging for people who see it!

[@SarahKesterwriter]

Thank you for sharing your story! Really hope medication helps me because I am so sick and tired of feeling tired and unable to reach out to friends etc. thanks for making me feel less alone!

[@rachelanita]

Thanks for your comment - comments like yours help ME feel less alone too. I'd love to hear an update on if meds have helped!

[@WillIam79-c7f]

Just diagnosed at 44. Waiting to get an assessment and meds. Currently, I have no insurance. I've gone through years of treatment for anxiety/depression/ptsd, and nobody even mentioned ADHD. I figured it out and paid for a therapy session and it turns out, Im super ADHD. I met 7/9 criteria.😂

[@el_2904]

I’ve not seen someone talk about chronic fatigue and ADHD before! I had chronic fatigue syndrome a few years ago really badly, but was confused when I got better why I still felt so lethargic and all over the place. I always thought you had to be full of energy to have ADHD so I was surprised to learn it can actually make you feel sleepy all the time! Finally got diagnosed with ADHD last year and it really does change your life once you realise you’re not a failure and your brain just works differently! I’m on Ritalin at the moment but thinking of switching to Concerta so I’m glad you’ve had a good experience with it :)

[@rachelanita]

Yeah, it's odd! I definitely thought the energy thing too. Yes.... Concerta is typically just longer lasting than Ritalin... my Ritalin was only lasting like 3 hours... so that's why I switched!

[@el_2904]

@@rachelanita yeah it’s only 3 maybe 4 hours for me and I’m not organised enough to make sure I take it twice a day most days! Looking forward to trying Concerta, I heard it can last 10 hours or something :)

[@rachelanita]

@@el_2904 I wish you luck! Please keep us updated :)

[@el_2904]

@@rachelanita thank you! Will do 😊

[@Jessicajasminm]

“Loosing myself”. Yep Thankyou for summing up what I’ve been trying to explain. It’s so hard I mask right away before I can even express the pin ball machine in my mind

[@rachelanita]

Seriously... thanks so much for your comment!

[@VanessaAbq]

I’m not diagnosed with ADHD yet but I have struggled with other co-morbidities & I believe I will be. Earlier this year, I really began struggling with what I finally identified as chronic fatigue. It’s horrible and that was actually the final straw that led me to “dig deeper.” I’m kind of new to this aspect of the journey but the struggles suddenly make so much more sense! So far, you’re the first I’ve hear bring up the issues with childhood memories and chronic fatigue. Thank you so much for sharing. I’m feeling so much more understood and hopeful! 👏🏽

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for sharing. The chronic fatigue is really so horrible... Do you also experience the issues with childhood memories? The brain is so complex so I wanted to bring all facets of my experience to see if anyone could relate.

[@VanessaAbq]

@@rachelanita I do all the “right things”….exercise, eat right, etc. and I was constantly drained for “no reason” and nothing seemed to help. On the outside, I look completely healthy but just taking my dogs out for a potty break would leave me feeling completely drained. Napping became the best part of the day. 😢 I can certainly relate to brain fog and lack of childhood memories, too. I gave up voicing my concerns to friends/loved ones because they all seemed to think it’s just “normal” or I’m just worried over nothing but I know that’s not the case. 🙄 So frustrating.

[@rachelanita]

Got it! Thanks for coming back and give me more information. I totally get everything you're saying... same here. i hope you are able to find relief!

[@VanessaAbq]

@@rachelanita Thank you! 💛

[@taptitecaro]

Proud of you for persevering and not giving up 💛

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much! And thanks for your comment :)

[@matsg2596]

I've hade very much the same experience as you, but 30 years later in life (I'm a 57 year old man and was diagnozed with inattentive ADHD 6 months ago)... At last I understand why things have been the way they have. This constant fatigue, several burn outs, not really having the energy to have a full life etc. Have begun making adjustments in my life, tried out medicines etc. I don't understand how I have coped and been able to survive this far...

[@Chris-cf2kp]

I'm a male in my late 20's as well. All of the symptoms you mentioned I've experienced to various extents throughout my whole life, and I'm just now trying to get on top of it because it's undeniable now. Apparently my parent was told I likely had adhd as a child but didn't tell me, I get that feeling of wishing it came sooner. The most frustrating part now is having to diagnose it yourself as an adult and the waiting periods with doctors/psychiatrists when you just want to get right. I have childhood trauma too, without the addictive trait. I suspect adhd is a residual coping mechanism from childhood when your brain tunes out the world and makes you focus on many other things or distracts yourself from a toxic environment, and then it just get's left that way.

[@rachelanita]

I feel all of this! It's really a struggle figuring out the perfect way to ask your psychiatrist to test you for this! I absolutely agree with the last part.

[@Chris-cf2kp]

@@rachelanita Luckily for us we seem to be a resourceful bunch, and there's always a solution to find or positive outlook to take. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@duncanbug]

Hey chris. Just wanna say I was diagnosed at 6 and it was never addressed and I was only treated as autistic (never diagnosed autistic) so I was given a lot of help for social skills. So I actually just learned to mask lol. Now at 28 I found my old diagnosis after a SEVERELY traumatic childhood. Like... Beyond insane. We're gonna be okay. And I know you probably haven't heart this a lot. But I'm proud of you. Trust your gut!

[@rachelanita]

@@duncanbug Thinking of you!

[@nsawatchlistbait289]

I don't know what to say. This is the most relatable ADHD video for me. I haven't got an diagnosis, and don't know how to even get it, maybe I'll get it sometime. I'm so grateful that I never got into alcohol or other drugs

[@rachelanita]

I'm glad you were able to find someone to relate to.. and I hope you were able to get a diagnosis and treatment.

[@nsawatchlistbait289]

@@rachelanita yup. The doc told me I might have mild autism and also ADHD. He gave ADHD medication and that didn't work too well. Now he thinks that I have mild autism and depression. Its still ongoing but I had to travel and now I'm in a different country and don't know what to do

[@dibaygautam2076]

Well done you! I am 45 and diagnosed 2 days ago!!

[@rachelanita]

Woot we love a new diagnoses!

[@annabackman3028]

I'm 60. I was diagnosed three years ago. I also have Bipolar disorder, type 2, and , I'm not sure about what it's called as a diagnosis, but exhaustion, burned out. I can recognize that about being told you're "lazy", "Can't you remember anything???" etc. I wasn't exactly clumsy as a child, nor later, but I have always felt clumsy. And I have felt different. For some reason I have always had friends, "normal" people, all my life. To me it seems weird, but I have, and have had through my life, a reputation of being intelligent, and knowing a lot about a lot. No, I'm not smarter than any average person, I don't know MORE than the average person does, but I probably know a little more about things other people never cared much about. And a little about a lot. I guess that's my ADHD that actually makes me able to focus, WHEN I FIND the subject interesting. Everything else... No focus available. At all. I've never been hyper active, but you can call it over active. Not about doing stuff, like running around the house with the vacuum cleaner every day (I wish I had a little bit of that in me!), it's about being PHYSICALLY active, running, biking, hiking, working physically. The latter is what kept me going without any special difficulties. I have always had heavy jobs (more typical for guys, kind of work), with a lot of variation, no day like another. Not even working with the same people every day. Much work outdoors. Until I hurt my foot badly. I collapsed from being still. And that was when my personal hell broke out. Diagnosed "depression". Got "Happy pills". Became worse. Stronger pills, became more worse. After a three -four years period of time I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder type 2. I immediately became much, much better with the right medication. Years went by and I never reached near my real me. I didn't think of AD H D, but perhaps ADD, because I was tired, couldn't make myself do anything, I was a mess, my home was a mess, my life was a mess. I moved to another town, and had a new psychiatrist who took my question about ADHD seriously. When I did the tests I realized how much of my life, especially childhood, had been affected through my ADHD. IF I had grown up today I would have had a diagnosis in third grade! But in the late sixties-early seventies in Sweden (where I live) I don't think ADHD was heard about. Later in the seventies the diagnosis "DAMP" became known of, but that wasn't me at all 😂, a hell of a temper, and ended up in fights every week, slept or dreamt away lessons in school. And highly physically active when not in school. Unfortunately I still don't have so much energy nowadays, but I function enormously much better with ADHD meds, Elvanse (Vyvanse) and Attentin (Dexamphetamine sulfate). If I use a little more Attentin than the prescription says I function fine, but that means there are days when I don't do anything else than walk my dog. They don't want to prescribe more, which I think is ridiculous. I have wasted more than a third of my life on bad mental health. If I can have FIVE years of a good life, before the liver says "thanks and goodbye", I can die happy. But after feeling like 24 years has been stolen from me, I can't say that this is the help I hoped for, to be honest. 🙄

[@rachelanita]

@@annabackman3028 Thanks so much for sharing this with me. I really appreciate your detailed comment. It's hard that so many of us experience these symptoms, but I'm glad we have found community. How long did it take to get your diagnosis? There is another person in these comments from Sweden who is on a wait list for a year. If you have any insight on how to speed up that process, please share! Also, how long have you been on the Vyvanse? my doctor told me that with time, the medications become less effective and it's a good idea to try a new one!

[@Itsmsxo]

This is literally me everyday but I am just told I am lazy, rude, and unmotivated. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@rachelanita]

You're not lazy, rude, and unmotivated! You're just going through it!!! Things can get better :)

[@Aleatoire9]

You talk like me - now I know why! I suspect I have ADHD, the inattentive type as well, and when you said you were chronically tired so many things made sense! I was chronically exhausted in grad school, got tested for anemia, wasn't anemic, and that was the end of it - the doctor didn't care lol. Thank you so much for sharing 💜

[@rachelanita]

Thanks for your comment Reese... I would definitely go get checked out. Hopefully you are able to find the answers you are looking for :)

[@KelseyLynnMusic]

ugh you’ve motivated me to get a referral, you’re explaining occurrences my life that i’ve never been able to verbalize. i feel so much relief already. thank you so much

[@rachelanita]

You've got this! If you're able to, definitely get the help you need :) Rooting for you!

[@EStrongFitness]

It's is encouraging to hear the success with medication. I'm excited for my upcoming appointment. I've had education and career goals for years that I just haven't been able to reach because I am unable to focus. I get so bored and feel like physical pain with mundane tasks. Anyway, I resonate with a lot of this. Can't wait to see what happens on meds!

[@rachelanita]

Thank you for commenting.. I really appreciate it! I hope you are able to find similar success.... Please keep us updated!

[@trae74]

I feel like chronic exhaustion is an overlooked symptom. I was just diagnosed at 48, and this was my main issue, but my psychiatrist didn't seem to think it was associated. I started on 5 mg of focalin. It worked great for about 2 weeks, and then I bumped up to 10 mg. I'm a completely different person. I'm also bitter because, 48! Jesus, how much better could I have been if I had been diagnosed. Every laundry basket is my house is empty! I don't think that's ever happened. The laundry doesn't have to be rewashed 12 times because I forgot about putting it in the dryer. The dishes stay done. Most importantly, I'm no longer tired all day, and I feel more present for my family. The medicine doesn't make me feel speedy or weird, just motivated. I feel bad for my oldest two because I was so checked out all the time. Ugh , when I think about it too long it makes me want to cry.

[@ccalexander1924]

It sounds like what my sis has but she got diagnosed with fibromyalgia! She had everthing from body aches , memory issues , extreme exhaustion. She takes naps a lot and she forgets everything….. and she is very clumsy. Interesting how similar the diagnosis is !

[@rachelanita]

Yeah, it is very similar! I have a lot of people in my comments who have/had fibromyalgia and also ADHD, or the ADHD medication helped them. I hope your sister is doing okay now!

[@Bekki_Gray]

Same! I have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia as well. Also, Idiopathic Hypersomnia.. I'm on Provigil for Narcolepsy but I still haven't been treated for ADHD and I'm 39 years old.

[@rachelanita]

Yes - a lot of people with ADHD face autoimmune disorders as well! How does the provigil work for your narcolepsy?

[@uncannedspaghetti]

The end of your video gives me so much hope. I was just diagnosed at 25 a few days ago and honestly doing the laundry just one time and completing a task sounds so nice I could cry

[@rachelanita]

I am so glad it gave you hope. Please keep me updated on what happens -- as I'd love to see if you're responding to treatment as well as I am. I'm sure not everyone's road will go as smoothly as mine, and I'm sure it helps others to see different experiences.

[@TravisPluss]

Inattentive type here too diagnosed March 2022. Had depression and anxiety, treated for anxiety, but I noticed something else was wrong. Even though I got my anxiety under control, I noticed I struggled with motivation and my new doctor correctly diagnosed me with ADHD.

[@rachelanita]

Thanks for sharing Travis... I really hope you are able to get some help :)

[@JMWrites]

The people not believing you is also super hard. I share your experience more or less entirely. It's particularly hard when your partner can't understand and even moreso when they also don't see it and struggle to believe that this one thing is causing all these issues. Sometimes I envy adhders who date other people with adhd. It's a year waiting list here and two years if, like me, you're moving country.. it's so painful when you know there's an answer right there and you just can't have it. Europe is so awful for adhd. Thanks Rach, I'm glad you made this video. And i hope you believe in yourself and your worth! Adhd is something you have not something you are. Don't feel bad for something that you did not ask for and are doing more than people will ever know to keep it under control.

[@rachelanita]

Seriously! It can be so hard with people not believing you. My husband is much better about believing me now-- but it can still be hard. Thanks so much for your comment!

[@truebeauty955]

thank you so much for this video! I’m 20 years old and my struggles are very similar to your story. I think I’ve been able to cope since I was younger but I’ve always felt like I was just coasting and this past year it’s like my coping mechanisms are no longer working. I spoke to my therapist about it (been in therapy for ptsd for almost 2 years) and she suggested that I get bloodwork done, and to explore depression and anxiety if it comes back good. my bloodwork came back normal and she screened me for depression, which it turns out I don’t have. my friends had mentioned adhd to me a few times in the past and I just kinda brushed them off until I came across a ted talk about adhd that really resonated with me. once I found out that women with adhd tend to get misdiagnosed with anxiety and depression, I built up the courage to mention the possibility of having adhd to my therapist. she suggested I get evaluated by the psychiatrist at her practice, so I set up an appointment which was earlier this week. when I told him about my struggles and suspicion, he told me to try drinking a cup of green tea every morning and to go to sleep/wake up at the same time for a month and then tell him if my focus improves. I left the session feeling really invalidated and I figured that I must’ve been researching too much about adhd to the point where I self diagnosed myself when the signs weren’t really there, but then your video came up on my page. after watching I’ve decided that I’m gonna try and find a psychiatrist that specializes in adhd for a second opinion. thanks so much again for sharing your story, it really means a lot :)

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for sharing this with me! And I'm so glad my video helped you... That's outrageous that that psych told you to do that? I know I wouldn't be able to keep up that routine lmao, as a person with ADHD. Definitely find a second opinion -- and be firm!!

[@hanyez]

Hi! I Just read your comment and I felt so upset about what this psychiatrist told you, sincerely I think it has also a component of gender bias in his attitude. Please, search a new professional and if possible I would suggest you to check if the psychiatrist has knowledge in adhd diagnosis and treatment. (English is not my first language so I apologize for any mistake). I wish you all the best in your journey.

[@rachelanita]

What she said! ^^^ Hope you see this Tabby.

[@waveydavie]

I'm 62 and positive I have ADHD. SInce I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's Hypothyroidism four years ago everything seems to have got worse. Still waiting nearly nine months for an appointment, I'm at my wit's end. Glad you've had a positive outcome, you're so very eloquent!

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for your comment Davie. I'm so sorry you've been waiting for so long.. what country are you in? I hope you are able to get answers soon :)

[@waveydavie]

@@rachelanita Hey, I'm in Scotland. I saw my Doctor this afternoon, he's going to push them to give me an appointment asap. So fingers crossed.

[@rachelanita]

I'm so glad Davie! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. I hope you are able to find answers. Please keep me updated!

[@waveydavie]

@@rachelanita Thanks, will do my best.

[@MathildaMM]

Hi! Im 22 year old girl that is not diagnosed yet. I relate to the constant tiredness and forgetting about alot of things. Im also a litte impulsive which is one of the reasons why I have given me alot of aexiety. Honestly im so tired of trying all the time that i just wanna give up. And when i do give up, i feel worse. I feel stuck. I am so tired. In august it is time for me to see the doctor to get an diagnos, but until then ill probably feel like this🙃 Thank you for talking about this. It is important 💜

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for your detailed comment Mathilda. I'm so sorry you're dealing with these symptoms, but am glad you will be seeing someone this month. Please keep us updated on what happens!

[@angobango]

The brain fog you describe at 6:35 for me feels like something in my brain has to jump over obstacles to get to the next thought, just as a hurdler has to jump over obstacles to get further. Btw. most accurate Video on the „feeling topic“ about adhd. Will forward this video if I find myself again not being able to describe this vague feelings.

[@victoria4004]

Hey friend. I am 26 years old and was diagnosed about 6 months ago too. Your experience is eerily similar to mine - especially growing up and college life. That fatigue too!!!

[@rachelanita]

Thanks for sharing... I hope things are much better for you :)

[@michaelconroy9975]

Take some drugs bro meth makes all people feel great and the gov gives it cheaply

[@dan-allen]

Thanks for sharing :) ADHD can look so different between people and I think the more stories that are shared the less people feel like they're alone

[@rachelanita]

Absolutely! Thank you for commenting.

[@jessicaraewood5016]

I am 36 and was just diagnosed this year after years of all kinds of comorbidities. My psychiatrist called it in 5 minutes of talking to me and at first I was like umm??? no way am I ADHD because I am highly organized, detail-oriented, and graduated school as an honor student. School came naturally to me and I was the student that did the LEAST amount of work and passed with flying colors so I thought there was no way. But once I started reading up on the symptoms that you DON'T hear about, the least common symptoms I was shook! Mind Blown! Like things I always assumed were just part of my personality or were "quirks" about me, are all screaming ADHD and even some a little bit autistic seeming, although that is not my diagnosis. Talking over people in a conversation, finishing their sentences and I really struggled NOT to do these things even though I was aware I shouldn't do it and it's basically rude and seems selfish and one-sided and I know now that I do it because it's how I "mask" engaging in the conversation or over-compensating to seem interested when I am truly not interested and/or the fact they don't talk fast enough for me to stay focused on what they are saying. The amount of adapting I managed to do over my entire life that I never realized I was doing to try to "fit" into the group. I really hate group settings and my boyfriend knows after years with me that I have to "mentally prepare" to hang out with people and I always just called myself an introvert but now I know why. It's because the boredom of just sitting around in a group "bullshitting" is really overwhelming to me. I also end up on my phone to engage in my favorite activities that will keep my satisfied but I do it intermittently and tend to "disappear" from the group to go to the bathroom quite frequently so I can just be to myself for a few minutes at a time. I know everyone seems to love me to death but that's because I always had to drink myself into a stupor to "open up" and actually enjoy myself in social settings and when I cut the alcohol and nicotine abuse (ex chain smoker here) I have ZERO desire to be around people.... like EVER. I also deal with chronic fatigue too but somehow I refuse to take naps and I have found ways to force myself to complete tasks, regardless of boredom although afterwards I am exhausted mentally and physically which is why when I get off of work every day from the office and come home, I am known to retreat into my bedroom and never come out again until the next morning. I lay in bed and watch my shows, or youtube, or play my games that I play every day in my free time. and I do hate that I come off as "aloof" or just anti-social and people don't get it when you say, oh don't mind me, I have ADHD because unless they have it they won't understand what you go through just to function every day. I am just now put on Strattera to try it out but it's too soon to tell if it's going to help or not. I wanted to start with a non-stimulant first and then try stimulants IF it doesn't work. Thanks for sharing your story!

[@rachelanita]

Thanks for sharing all of this! I totally feel a lot of what you said. I hope the Strattera works for you :)

[@valeriehearn9800]

These are all me

[@jessicaraewood5016]

@@valeriehearn9800 i feel your pain. I did not like strattera. It made me even more tired and also highly irritable. They are changing my meds tomorrow to something else. ROUND 2, here we go!

[@Pureconception]

About me

[@roymongin8886]

It me. (35M - INTP). Started Adderall yesterday, diagnosed a month ago. Inattentive Type, was borderline combined. Fingers crossed it works.

[@emmcav]

Thank you for posting this. This is literally my life story. First day on ADHD medication. Chronic fatigue. That was the worst thing.

[@rachelanita]

It's been 9 days since you started medication!!!! How has it been for you?

[@Wheatfree]

Rachel, thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I have been diagnosed with the predominantly inattentive type (TODAY). I’ve also struggled for my whole life but was always told it was anxiety & depression and so medicated with pretty much everything for 17 years. Glad to finally have a diagnosis at 34 but it’s come at a huge cost. How are so many of us missed and ending up finding out about adhd ourselves. It’s just crazy to me 😔🤯

[@rachelanita]

Of course... I really needed to hear stories like this but couldn't find much -- so I thought i'd share my own. I'm so glad you got diagnosed today!! It's so liberating. So many people in the comments have also found the same

[@simbaguerra3427]

I feel seen, honestly i tried for so long to figure out what was wrong with me, why I don’t have friends our good relationships, why I always put things off. This helped thank you

[@rachelanita]

I'm so glad my video was able to help you. Thank you so much for your comment. I hope things are able to get better for you.

[@nicolejacques2563]

I was diagnosed with inattentive ADHD at 19 after pretty much melting down when I got to college. Also diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder and dysthymia at the time as well. In my 20s I got diagnosed with idiopathic hypersomnolence. I have tried so many medications and either they have completely not worked or had horrible side effects that meant I couldn’t take them - the one that worked the best and gave me the feeling you had after you started taking concerta started blurring my vision to the point I couldn’t drive. My husband got diagnosed with inattentive ADHD in his 30s and can take medication but doesn’t, which I find very frustrating. He is so much more attentive and productive when he takes his meds (which I have told him I notice), but he has just completely stopped taking them. We have two kids, and I do a bulk of the work with them and around the house and forcing myself to pay attention and be mindful and follow through with everything from the kids’ schools and various activities is exhausting. I am exhausted.

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for your detailed comment. I'm so sorry you've had such a rough time with medication, that really sucks! I'm sorry youre having such a hard time. Would it be beneficial if you sat him down and told him (very seriously) how important it is to you that he takes his medicaiton and is able to help you more? Thinking of you!

[@susiedbc]

I was diagnosed finally at 51 years old. I had lots of coping techniques, so am successful in my career, but yeah, I feel what you are feeling about ‘what if I had been diagnosed earlier?’ You are so young and have plenty of time to advance in your career and improve relationships. So glad you were able to figure it out.

[@rachelanita]

Thanks for sharing! Would you share your coping techniques?

[@susiedbc]

@@rachelanita it was basically all the things they tell you to do to cope with that inattentive part of ADHD before they prescribe meds. For example - keep a running task list; a detailed calendar; set up early, self-imposed deadlines; force myself to finish a task before starting another; turn off notifications for hours at a time while working; make sure every object has a place it belongs and always put it there (I do this at home and job , but *always* lose my car when I have to park at a new place since it doesn’t have a spot - my husband got an AirTag to put in my car for me 🤣); etc. Things I couldn’t overcome with planning or clicky toys are things like paying attention during meetings; paying attention for a long time when others are talking;paying attention for a prolonged time while driving; staying focused on things that aren’t required for work or have no deadline (self-imposed or real); sitting still in a chair; remembering names or other kinds of random information. Those things all required medication and I can’t believe the difference.

[@rachelanita]

LOL love the airtag idea -- i mention those in my other video about ADHD tips and tricks! These are all so great :)

[@brandiago]

Wow. What a journey. I identify with all of that except the ptsd (insert ASD instead). I'm almost 50, and going to get diagnosed next month. ps. You're amazing at replying to everyone. ... Thanks for sharing.

[@rachelanita]

Thank you for commenting. I'm so glad you're going to get a diagnosis now -- any time is a good time! Please keep us updated on what happens next month :)

[@Joyfulminimalist]

Thanks for sharing Rachel. I’m 10 years older, so I’ve had 10 long years more of struggling with innattentive add. I’m not diagnosed yet and in a way I’m glad I wasn’t diagnosed and medicated early on because I did learn how to cope holistically and I recognized I am a very determined person to feel better and my best. I’m spent thousands on my health and well-being , got married, had a baby. I’m actually very happy , but like you- still have the inattentive issues which has been stalling my exercise/physical health goals. I’m reaching a point where I’m like “ok. Life is pretty good. Maybe I’m ready for amazing”. I’ve been hesitant to go on medication , but I’m thinking it’s time to pursue this. I can function ok sans medication until I have my second child, but then afterwards , it’s time. You are so lovely, funny, and I like your confidence. I’m sure your husband is very pleased too. Take care ❤

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for your comment. Yeah, it is possible to cultivate a good life -- but it is nice to have the option for something even better. I would definitely look into it as an option -- if it doesn't work for you, you don't have to do it... but it's great to have the option!

[@Joyfulminimalist]

@@rachelanita I agree! I hope I can have an update for you in a few years. I’ll try to remember to make 1 :)

[@shoshanaeri8035]

I relate to this too! You're so funny about- after 2nd child, it's time, lol. I have 2 already! I was starting to feel hopeful but also depressed but I really like how you said "Life is pretty good. Maybe I'm ready for amazing"

[@xRandomHousex]

Thank you sharing your story! I also have just been diagnosed this year as a 21 year old woman. I wish I had been diagnosed earlier in my life so I could understand myself and learn strategies revolving life and getting accommodations in school and acknowledgement from peers 😭

[@rachelanita]

Thanks for sharing. I appreciate your comment... but we still have so much more time to grow and achieve what we want :)

[@sharonb.7867]

Do not focus on getting diagnosed until adulthood. I am going to be 60 in a month and am in the process of getting a diagnosis. I was a daycare director for 27 years and my center owed me over $100,000 in wages when it closed in 2020. Looking back it was mostly because of my ADHD. I have a broken relationship with my three daughters because of it and I discovered my ADHD when I figured out our son had it. Our son who is 33 has struggled with alcohol and drug addiction since he was about 16. The day I read that people with ADHD are 300% more likely to struggle with addiction I knew I was on the right path for him. What I didn't know was it was going to open a whole new world for me. I started medicine a little over a week ago ~ it is changing my life! No looking back ~ only forward. Thank you God for showing me this path!

[@rachelanita]

I am so glad that you have found answers and that the medication is working for you. Hopefully you are able to repair your relationships and start anew!

[@TheLiquidCat]

Wow! Your video is so helpful, thank you so much for being open about the less documented symptoms. I've been googling ADHD for the last couple days and wondering if it's me (internet tests say yes) but your description of feeling like you must have chronic fatigue, and not having the emotional energy to keep up relationships etc is exactly what I've always struggled with. I'm going to bring it up with my psychiatrist in 2 weeks. I'm 39 and I always thought I was just born wrong somehow since no doctors can find physical reasons and anxiety and depression meds don't really do anything. Thanks again!!!

[@rachelanita]

I'm so glad you found the video helpful. Yes, please bring it up with your psychiatrist... and be firm that they test you. Please keep us updated on what happens!

[@TheLiquidCat]

@@rachelanita Hi Rachel! I just wanted to check in with you to let you know I saw my psychiatrist and made a little progress but not fully there yet, unfortunately. He listened to my description of how I felt and his answer was "But will you really change if I give you the medication?" I was rather exasperated and started to cry about my life and went on a big rant (lol). Eventually he somewhat conceded and said he would call me within the next two weeks to discuss the medication further after having thought about it for a while. He said he didn't want to give me something addictive that didn't ultimately help me. I tried to reassure him that if I didn't see improvement I would stop it immediately. A disappointing outcome so far but I will keep needling at him. In the end the medication may not work but I want the chance to try it since watching videos like yours I am convinced there must be ADD present.

[@rachelanita]

Thank you so much for coming back and updating me. What a weird question to ask? Like... "IDK... i haven't tried it yet????" like what was he expecting for an answer? I hope he gives you medication soon... if it doesn't work out well with doctor and you don't think he's offering the appropriate amount of care, I would look into a second opinion.

[@pinkpaprika8410]

I got diagnosed at 40, and it felt like a mountain had slipped off my back. Instead of feeling like I had 10.000 faults and no matter how hard I tried, I was never good enough, I discovered that I had one problem that manifested in a diversity of ways, and that there were ways to cope with it. Sharing my experience allowed me to help others around me who had a similar problem. I‘m really grateful for that.

[@rachelanita]

Gosh, I totally feel the bit about the mountain slipping off your back. It's really so liberating to know more about yourself and have knowledge to heal yourself. Thank you for sharing your experience with me! :)

[@hania9099]

FR! I am a 14 yr old type 1 diabetic and I figured out I had ADHD since a year now...i cant focus in Highschool and told my parents about it...they just thought I was lazy and overthinking...later I consulted online therapy with my savings for about 2 months and she helped me plan out my life....soon I ran out of savings and my cycle was back and worse..I had no choice but to inform my parents about it and they completely ignored me..and now i feel I might get depressed too, i mean for how long can I keep on doing this?

[@rachelanita]

Thank you for sharing your story! I'm so sorry your parents are so dismissive. I'm proud of you for being so proactive with your own care -- that shows a lot of strength. Do you think it would help to sit your parents down for a serious meeting -- and explain to them in detail that you NEED medical help and. you need them, as your parents, to support you. Can you also talk to a school counselor about this?

[@hania9099]

​@@rachelanita Thank you so much for actually replying! (actually helped ALOT with the motivation🖤)... yes, I recently did talk to my teacher about it as she noticed some different activities from my side compared to other students. Looking forward to her meeting with my parents.🤞

[@rachelanita]

Ok good! Sometimes you need someone to advocate for you. When my family members feel like they're not getting support from their medical professionals -- I always offer to advocate for them. Sometime we have more power in numbers unfortunately!

[@rachelanita]

Please keep me updated :)

[@hania9099]

@@rachelanita yes ofc!😅

[@PatrickJFurther]

Very similar experience, had cfs in school for over 3 years. No professional really knew what was going on. Only found out last year when I was 29. These youtube videos might help others, thanks for sharing ❤️

[@rachelanita]

So sorry you were dealing with it so long... it can be SO hard knowing something is wrong but not knowing what -- making you doubt your reality. I hope things are better for you now.

[@frayedsanity]

Everything you have talked about is me. Inattentive type and started lowest dose of the same medication you are on - Ritalin 10mg, last thursday. Just started 20mg in the morning and 10mg at midday today and I feel like it's made a difference. I feel like I could take more, but I'll wait a few months. Next week it will be 2 and 2 morning and midday. I feel a bit bitter too. I waited til I was 40 to get diagnosed. I wanted to be an astronaut as a kid but couldn't concentrate and was ALWAYS zoning out. Now I have much more focus. I don't think gender matters becuase being male, everyone thinks I should be hyperactive, but I am not, I am(was) always off with my head in the clouds wondering about things all the time. So frustrating!

[@joecatling2468]

My psychiatrist has just recommended that I get tested - I was skeptical at first but the more I read/watch into it the more I identify with all of it. Your video was really useful and also very entertaining haha. Thank you so much, I’m glad to hear that you are feeling much better🥹🐿

[@rachelanita]

I'm glad you found it useful and entertaining! I hope you are able to find answers :)