I am a 47 year old woman and just diagnosed with ADHD. Now what?

I am a 47 year old woman and just diagnosed with ADHD. Now what?
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Hi! My name is Mel (aka) Back from Burnout! And if you’re a reseller wanting to learn how to sell on eBay and how I run a successful eBay business selling second hand items from the thrift store then this is DEFINITELY the place for YOU! On this channel, I upload 2-3 videos a week surrounding topics such as tips for selling on eBay and how to make money selling stuff on eBay. I help you get a better understanding of what it's like being a full time eBay reseller and I'll show you what I do all day as a eBay reseller in my weekly reselling vlogs. And I basically answer any and all questions any eBay resellers may have who are looking to grow their eBay business!

[@jpsorrells21]

With my personality I always say “I am consistently inconsistent”. ☺️❤️

[@theeclecticnest5343]

I am 52 and a few months ago I watched a documentary on the lost generation of women who were undiagnosed ADHD. They went over the symptoms and signs, I started to weep. I have struggled my whole life and never understood why I am so different. Mel, so much of what you share resonates with me. Every time I watch you I identify with your struggles. My name is Melissa, I'm a book seller and I'm in the Reseller Greatness group too. You have encouraged me to see a psychiatrist.

[@carochan86]

What was the documentry called?

[@janettyree6591]

What is the name of the documentary you watched?

[@lubyard6057]

Mel, all you have said is true. I am 74 , still an Ebay seller. But part time as I am lucky enough to not have to support myself totally. You describe it all as if you are describing me to a tee.I have always been a high achiever, I have got through this far, own business at 18, broken 1st marriage, unable to have kids, travelled widely , held down a great job in a big multi national for 27 years all the time with Anxiety, depression, panic attacks, agoraphobia etc.The 1 thing I can suggest to you to help you get through, is learning to recognise when you are on the edge of going down. Stop, right then, and tell yourself NO I need to stop and back out, step back and for me I pray for help.i even ALWAYS carry a little verse in my purse to reinforce what I need to do. Even if I am in the middle of something big. STOP and go to your Happy place mentally. It's sometimes a fight with yourself, but if you take the time, you won't start to spill.xxx Lady, you got this. It is your super power but don't abuse it. Xxx

[@SideGig]

Every word you said about life challenges, not understanding why you can't get things done, wondering if knowing earlier would have helped, and so more more is also me. And many, many women over 40 out here. You are not alone!❤🤗

[@dreamersixteen]

You are uniquely you! Don’t change for anyone! Love your videos Mel keep them coming please! Big hello from Adelaide 😊

[@lindajones5584]

Don't feel bad, I'm 73 and still haven't been diagnosed professionally but I know I am

[@PSJFamBam]

I’m so glad times have changed. There is so much more information and resources on offer. So many kids were let down in the past especially around the education of children that learned differently. I luv how real your videos are. I guess that is how I started watching your channel. Life is definitely a journey.

[@catrionadempster1755]

You are amazing and brave for telling everyone. The diagnosis helps you understand how you have been feeling and living your life. It makes NO difference to those of us who watch and love you, as we loved your videos and more you yourself before you told us this. Just be you, you are more than enough x

[@marcellaabel-curtis1150]

I love the up and down videos. I think that’s why so many people are drawn to you. It makes you more personable girl 🫶🏼

[@Jessy.shops23]

Mel I could relate to every single thing you mentioned. I felt every word. I’ve never been diagnosed but I feel strongly I have these things too ❤

[@stasiapatience5868]

Your openness will help so many people! Thanks for sharing!

[@sharibrewster4153]

It takes a lot of courage to discuss things as you have. Good on you Mel. You are blessed with insight and that is the start of healing. You can do this! And there are thousands of followers supporting you. Be kind to yourself! Sending love and blessings.

[@pamelamartinez3353]

I was diagnosed at 45, and Vyvanse literally changed my life. I did not lose my personality, but rather, I found my true self (sounds goofy, but true). I didn't fully understand the daily struggles of living with ADHD until I no longer had those struggles. Don't let others shame you for taking medication if that is what you need . But if you decide not to take the medication and work through using different tools, then that's okay too. You are amazing and welcome to the adhd club.❤

[@kmorris283]

You made me cry because I am on the same journey. I have not been diagnosed officially yet but my daughter in law started talking about it with my son (she’s a therapist) and I see all the patterns in my life as well. I thought I was handling all my quirks ok until a little over a year ago my partner was diagnosed with a long term issue and we have been caregivers to her mother for 10 years and it is now a huge stress point. I was not able to function and lost my job. Everything you talk about is me! A few days ago I got an opportunity for a new job but I know that I will not be able to function unless I get help so I had a hissy fit with the Dr’s to get me in sooner than the 6 month waiting period to try to get the help I need to function productively. Thank you for your oversharing and honesty. You have really helped me today! ❤️

[@resalewarrior7335]

There you go being Transparent about your life again. Hearing your story makes me want to watch your videos even more. THANK YOU for being Real And Vulnerable!!!!!

[@TalbotCountyPicker]

You’re doing great! Medicine or no medicine we all love your content.. Thanks for being you!!!

[@backfromburnout]

Thank you!

[@davidov31]

I got my diagnosis at 49, I pretty much identify with every word you’ve just said! Good luck with the vyvanse, I’m on it myself and I’ve found it has definitely been a help. Also knowing what you’re dealing with is helpful as well, understanding why we do things the way we do them. Just keep working on becoming the best crazy mixed up you that you can be!

[@redesignedbydelicia3052]

Thank you for sharing this hits hard …53 and certain I’ve struggled my whole life as well.

[@BohoSocialHouse]

Don't ever let anyone tell you that you're too much. Those aren't your people.

[@farmgirl1560]

My brain has slowed down and become so much calmer since I've drastically reduced my social media ( and internet use in general). I'm only online for my ebay business and a few youtube videos now or if I need to look up something specific. Not saying that modern life is the cause of all these mental health conditions but I don't think our brains have adapted to this fast paced information overload we are bombarded with each day. Especially those of us who are older and didn't grow up with it. Now I have time to meditate, read books ( yay!! LOL) and just spend time in nature etc my anxiety has lessened. I'm hitting menopause so it's not perfect but it certainly has helped.

[@MintPalace]

I feel like you are describing me!! haha. You are a superstar for sharing all of this, especially for so many of us women who were overlooked in school back in the 80's. It's given me something to ponder... Sending you lots of love Mel, and research all you want about the medicine before you take it, I know I would. Hugs. xx

[@rosagardetoft4013]

Congratulations Mel🎉❤. I was diagnosed Bipolar many years ago, it didn't really feel right to me. Now,at 61years, I got a new diagnosis..adhd and that is spot on! The release that comes from understanding myselfe, why I'm so "strange" compared to most people I know, is amazing! And all the things you say about how you function,that's is true for me also. I live in Sweden and I can tell you,here you have wait at least 2 years to get a investigation inside the healthcare system,to se if you have adhd,then you can maybe start medicating,.My son has been waiting about 5 years now🙈😵‍💫😱 doing it privately cost about 3 000 AUD, to compare with about 200 AUD in our health system. So that's a no brainer! Thank you for sharing and being woulnerable Mel,and good luck! Be brave and try the meds,the worst thing that can happen is you quit them, buuut I can make your life a little better. You never know🙏🤩💪 🇸🇪

[@tanishabruns3602]

Mel… you are THE ABSOLUTE BEST!!! I can sincerely relate to ALL of this video content. I hesitated to open and watch because I anticipated “seeing” a mirror held up as you disclosed your experiences… and I did, BUT it wasn’t uncomfortable. It was actually empowering for me as I checked off so many boxes of similar characteristics, behaviors & and experiences. I sincerely thank you for sharing.

[@kelliewatts5212]

Hi Mel I just got diagnosed at 50 and you are my double. Your brain is exactly like mine. Im so happy I found you through watching Techs videos. I had no idea you had ADHD but you certainly talk like me and think like me. I have a new ebay shop and Im following you now to learn with you. I just watched you budget video and I dont even know how you did the spreadsheet!!! Anyway wnated to say your no alone and youve got this. And now im going to stalk all your ohter videos!! Stay strong we are here for you.

[@catherinemorgan6163]

This helps me understand my son's struggle, the fallout coming down from hyperfocus, which is task paralysis.

[@PatriciaKromrei]

I knew it from the first time I started watching your picking and packing vlogs. Like others have said don't let it consume you because you are STRONGER 💪 than most and this now will help you figure out how to deal with it. Good Luck & God Bless

[@amyrichardson6419]

Thanks for sharing Mel. It's like looking in a mirror. Self diagnosed at 39, waiting for apt.

[@lynnhughes1308]

Congratulations now you know how to proceed with your life and untangle the past. 😢 you are not dumb and you saying that brought me to tears. You are one of the most intelligent resellers I know. Please know your worth. You are an absolute legend and Thom seems to be there with you 100%. He’s a lucky man and you have been blessed with what appears on screen to be what you need ❤

[@jeanettedeblois7878]

Mel - I have PTSD and I have days that are dark, but I know it will get brighter if my mind goes to a better place. ❤

[@GritCityGoods]

Diagnosed with General anxiety disorder at 43 and adhd at 45. My entire life made sense after that.

[@lorettacaputo6997]

I can relate to your situation as I see the same situation in my own life. I accept the situation but I also realize that any frustration that I may feel is simply because I have an overwhelming feeling that I am trying to touch bases with all of the things that I think "I must get done". Unfortunately, the things we think we would like to do and the things we really have to do are two different categories. As long as we can attend to the things that need to be done we can just look at the things that we would like to get done as things for another day. The "crazy" thoughts and distractions for other projects just need to be put aside and not dwell in our consciousness. Easy to say, but sometimes hard to do. Knowing the difference and acting appropriately is the key. Good luck on your journey and hope you can stay focused on your goals.

[@dwbooksandbeyond1528]

I am so happy you have sought help for yourself. I wish you well on your newfound journey of knowledge about yourself. Please keep taking care of yourself. ♥

[@anne.with.an.e5954]

Mate. I feel you. I'm 43 and you have described exactly how I have behaved my entire life, same at school, same with relationships, same with work. Even sat here with a closed bottle of vitamins on my bedside table that have been there for months! Trying to get a diagnosis in the U.K as an adult is near impossible so I'll probably never know for sure. Loved this video, thanks so much for sharing, much love x

[@buzzweebee8685]

I also have an unopened bottle of vitamins next to my bed

[@AleshiaSharp]

You nailed it Mel. When we were at school, it’s the naughty boys that had adhd. Not the daydreamers, the chatty ones, the hyper focused ones, and never us girls. The hyper focus then turns to task paralysis. I get it too. The simplest of tasks are so daunting. I’m in the process of getting my appointments for testing but it takes so long (I’m in Perth) good luck to all finally getting answers!

[@ADHDaveFlips]

Hey! Welcome to the family

[@JennyinGero]

What can I say, luv ya Mel, you’ll do well regardless - you can’t change “you” on medication - it’ll just bring out a better “you” 🥰

[@JenniferR411]

Mel your amazing!!! You breathe life into your channel...& expressing the highs and lows are essential. I'm 54 and feel the pressures of things later in my life...Still love the shit you bring! Love books too!!!!

[@mega1616]

So proud of you for seeking that diagnosis Mel. I was diagnosed with autism and adhd last year at 29 and then so much of my life made sense. Wishing you luck on this journey❤

[@DianeBritt-j7u]

Love you Mel! Do what works for you.

[@GerryPicker]

Thanks for sharing your story 😊

[@cottagekeeper]

You are describing me. I’ve been in counseling for the last two years. They started with 6 hours of testing which determined I was not ADHD I was completely shocked. My brothers all have ADHD. For me it’s chronic depression and anxiety and PTSD, and I’m a chronic caregiver. I’m learning to think differently about how I respond to life and month by month I am making baby steps in progress, sometimes a tsunami rolls me back but I know I will recover. Give yourself time and work with a PhD licensed counselor who specializes in trauma, depression and behavioral therapy. I enjoy your videos because of who you are ❤ you are not crazy, life is hard and we need professionals to help us respond correctly. Love you and prayers for you as you embark on this new journey 💜

[@TheBestPlaceForStuff]

You are amazing to put this video out here and probably helped many

[@lisagolden253]

As a mom to 3 girls diagnosed with ADHD I can totally see it! My husband also has ADHD so it has indeed been a wild ride. The "task paralysis" is absolutely a real thing! And very frustrating to the one person in our family without ADHD. Medication has definitely helped, but each child handled it differently. Learning coping strategies also helps. Thank you for sharing this news with us. So important to hear for the many people dealing with this ever day. ❤

[@Nonasdaughter-Annette]

Hi: I am Annette and I diagnosed myself at age 61. I was treated for anxiety for many years before I saw a Mel Robbins KZbin on ADHD. I have an official testing appointment in November. I share all the same issues you describe. It is frustrating. Thanks for sharing!!

[@oldtonewtreasures7110]

You and I are SOOOO similar I think we could be such great friends lol! Our conversations would be super duper long because of us both constantly interrupting eachother! Good job on sharing I know it's not always easy to discuss personal issues we have. Bless you dear!!

[@stephleephoto]

I was diagnosed at 35! My life makes so much more sense now! ❤

[@jennyspagnolo3032]

Being in peri and post menopause can bring on adhd and anxiety, I’m learning this about myself now. Squirrel brain extraordinaire here ❤

[@darcidefronzo4543]

I'm 47 and was just recommended to get tested from my therapist last week! I have a lot of the same things you do. Explains a lot of why I am the way I am.

[@ibenhjholdt3121]

I'm 51 and was diagnosed with ADHD last week - now I know another reason why I like you so much ;-) To bad theres such a long distance from Denmark to Australia !

[@pufles65]

Mel I haven’t been officially diagnosed like you have but it’s lie you are listing everything I’m going through myself. Wishing you all the best. I love your honesty in your videos 😊💐❤️

[@danafindwell]

Thanks for sharing, Mel, it’s really good to know for sure and have the diagnosis. I’m here whenever or for whatever you want to share. 🥰❤️

[@sheilamaloney3932]

I'm 61. Diagnosed with adhd and medicated a few years ago. I'm an accountant. It's hard. Still struggle, but can barely be productive at all without medication. It's good to know what you are dealing with. And YES...schedules are hard. Many ideas and not so much fellow thru. I mostly have to do things in the morning. It gets harder thru.out the day. LoVE your videos. Keep it up.

[@susanlewis1953]

Thanks for the video ❤. Love that you now have a superpower!! Go for it. Love your videos 👍 Thanks Sue 😊

[@mysteriousoul]

For what it’s worth, I think you’re an awesome person who is remarkably intelligent, interesting, funny and creative - you’re killing it as a bookseller and KZbinr and you’re an inspiration for many out here in the audience. Good luck with your mental health and healing - try to eat healthier food, and find time to chill - you obviously exercise like a demon in the warehouse! 👍

[@Joan-COYI]

You’re not bat shit crazy Mel, you’re like all of us. We’re all normal because we’re all human. I have PTSD and wondered whether EMSR would help so I’ll be glad to see how you get on with it if you decide to try it. That colour looks fabulous on you. It’s great that you’re exploring these characteristics as more understanding can only help you have a better future.

[@AudreyStar17]

Thank you for sharing your life and story with us! I'm 42, and was diagnosed by my Dr with ADD several years ago. I don't let it define me, but it explains a lot knowing ( don't have the hyperactivity part of it) it's a thing. Humans are so complex! Glad to follow your journey! 🥰🤗🙏🏻 And ugh yeah, I get scared of medications altering personality as well!

[@ccompeaux1]

I just want to cry listening to your story. I was 47 years old when I was diagnosed. You just described my life. I managed to graduate us, go to college and become a teacher. However, it was so much harder for me than my piers. Everything you talked about I have gone through in my life. I love watching your videos and yes, I could pick up some of your traits. I do things differently than everyone I know. My brain is wired differently. However, that’s ok. Ty so much for sharing. It made me feel like someone else out there understands what I go through daily. Good luck and keep making your awesome videos!❤️

[@ccompeaux1]

I take medication for it. It will probably be very noticeable at first. I don’t notice now. I will say it does help me focus better. It’s not a miracle thing, but I definitely notice if I don’t take it! lol

[@jodan401]

hi Mel I've been watching you for so long now and absolutely love your content . I love your honesty !! listening to you today I now know why I connected with you , I feel like you are describing me to a point . I moved to NZ from Aussie to try and sort my life out as I felt I couldn't take anymore .I wasn't any good to anyone let alone myself . I too are seeing phycologist and it is helping me too and am so grateful to her , I'm starting to understand me . I love that you share your thoughts as you are helping others that aren't able to voice their thoughts . never stop being you either , we are all different and deal with things differently its helping others to understand , don't you think ??. You are never dumb !!! .... its now as you say working with what we know and knowing how to coupe or want for a better word "manage" thanks Mel thank you xx

[@wendyalbers1963]

I am glad now your life makes sense to you💖. I too was diagnosed late in life at age 43 and then a few months later, ASD and when I got these diagnosis, my entire life made total sense. I was already diagnosed with CPTSD, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder. All my treatments to age 43 were basically called 'treatment resistive', but I was medicated for my severe ADHD and when I started, I rang my mum and told her that I don't even know who I am and I need to learn who I am and where I am in life, at the age of 43 learning who you are is very scary, but as I have aged, my anxiety is severely increasing and I had my first severe panic attack and I now know what to look out for (in myself), behaviours and feelings when I feel my anxiety getting worse and I am learning how to manage my anxiety before I progress to a panic attack and I am finding this very helpful.

[@paulaseiple336]

Thanks for being willing to be honest before the camera. It IS a great help for you that you are so self-aware. "Balance" may not be a realistic goal for you (you see Tom being able to do that), but it's healthy that you see that some of your extremes, such as focusing, can be a great strength. You are right...an accurate diagnosis is freeing. Hope your reselling lasts more than 5 years! You are a KZbin treasure.

[@WayneTradingCompany]

Much love from the US 💗

[@jac-pieceynumnums]

Admire your openness to share all aspects of life. I understand your reluctance to take the medication but hope it works really well once you do.

[@tracygarrett3952]

I haven't been officially diagnosed with ADHD, but I'm fairly certain I have it. I related to almost everything you said. The most important thing I heard was your trust in Thom. How wonderful that you have a person like this in your life! I don't think I could take a drug for ADHD, because they sound like speed to me. I'm aware I interrupt, so I make an effort to not give in to the urge of just speaking when I should be listening. Those of us watching you, some for years (like myself), love you as you are!

[@mariecorbin4935]

I was diagnosed a year ago at 40 after my then 7 year old son was diagnosed. I was always self aware of my behavior, etc, too, but until I was doing all the evaluations with/for my son I didn't identify my behavior as ADHD. I'm also on Vyvanse, and it has helped me alot. It actually helps me to feel more like myself. I did try other medications but came back to it. I have been professionally successful by most standards, but it has been really hard and stressful. I had finally gotten to a point as a mom of 2 small children and a demanding career that I couldn't handle it anymore. It was too stressful. I haven't figured it all out yet but a diagnosis has helped me. I really enjoyed hearing everything you said because I relate so much. Thank you for sharing (over sharing is one of my traits too😂).

[@jodie6159]

A doc told me the best piece of advice when my son was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD….. “Don’t ‘become’ the disability. Dont let the diagnosis become your identity and consume you. Get on with life”. Didn’t understand it 14 years ago but through the years it made sense.

[@lc9215]

I’m about to be diagnosed too Mel and my husband was diagnosed a few months ago. Vyvanse has been fantastic for him!!

[@lisagallagher6548]

It is a real thing. I have it as well. Procrastinating is my biggest issue. Dr. told my son (who has it as well) there are great qualities for having a hyper mind. You can think outside the box, be creative, and we are usually a people magnet. Many investors have it. Enjoy the perks!

[@Switchy80]

Wow you literally just described myself. So much of what you said resonates with me.

[@lifestylereseller4398]

Glad the diagnosis was a relief. Look forward to seeing what strategies you implement to make life a bit easier - and at least, if not been more, successful x

[@laurikane7326]

OMG..... Earlier.I was just thinking of messaging you and telling you that I like that your videos are not always the same. I have been watching some of the same youtube people forever..... Started with Josh (loved when he added Hailey)..... I still love Kevin, Dave and Carey..... And I do watch them but not all of the time, or I do fast forward because they do the same stuff all the time. I'll always love them and I always watch the podcast..... But sometimes I just can't watch the videos. I always look forward to your videos.And I was sad when they were only coming like 2x a month or so, but I understand life gets in the way sometimes. I've been turning on youtube the last two weeks and am excited that Mel has so many videos. Yours are the first I watch when I turn on youtube. I've always sort of known I had ADHD but was officially diagnosed in my 40's as well. I do try to force myself to be mindful of that when I am around other people..... So to try to be quiet, wait your turn, Stay focused, Not be too loud...... It takes a little practice. You just keep doing you. Also, I think way back when there were some Q and A videos..... I don't feel like i've seen any of those and quite some time. Just a thought.....

[@ChickenCookies]

I was recently diagnosed with ADHD as well. Im 46 and what you are saying is exactly what Im dealing with. best of luck with your meds. 😊 Id love to hear a follow up soon.

[@TheMerchants]

I was recently diagnosed with adhd and PTSD as well, Mel and EMDR is been EXTREMELY helpful for me! My suggestion is to have them give you the clicks in the headphones as well as small frequency buzzing in your hands. I have tried with and without the electronics and with is way more helpful for me. I do it every other week with my therapist and my body has been doing YEARS of healing in such a short amount of time.

[@Nana_Tink]

You are amazing, love you for who you are and so authentic 💕 you got this and will continue to grow both personal, private, professional etc. The best🎉🎉

[@vintageviola36banks24]

I'm 60 and I am going to look into getting tested. You sound just like me. My 22 year old daughter was diagnosed last year. She is so much more in control now. So much more focus Best thing that happened to her was testing and meds. It really is a super power. Vyvanse is amazing. It has helped my daughter so much.

[@Mr.Green.Shoes.999]

Welcome to the club!!! A lot of things will start to make sense. It kinda sucks but you don't know any different.

[@patriciaburkinshaw8280]

Thanks for sharing Mel. My doctor has been wanting me to get assessed but I have always held off. I might have to bite the bullet lol.

[@natalie7180]

Mel, I was diagnosed with ADHD last year, and the year since has had it's trials and tribulations. I relate to every single point you mentioned, some days I'm like a firecracker, completing every single task and more, and other days my hands are stone and the brain fog is so intense I can't do anything. I am currently really struggling with managing ADHD and reselling, I get into the groove, feel like I can do this forever, and then I abandon it for weeks, and I really blamed myself for this, and felt like I was just really lazy, even though I know I am not. I have the same fears about medications, but this video inspired me to finally call my psychiatrist to at least set up an appointment. Thank you for your honesty! You inspire me truly.

[@christineryan291]

Going through this process at a similar age now. Perimenopause rips away our "masks" that we have unknowingly used our whole lives to cope, leaving us with no tools to navigate a world designed around neuro-typicals. The functional freeze is so debilitating. I have done "nothing" yet am exhausted from it.

[@KB-tu4zw]

Exactly! Perimenopause then surgical menopause was the final wall I hit and couldn’t get through. I had many times in my life when I felt overwhelmed needing therapy or meds. However, always treatment for anxiety and depression. Menopause causes women to lose some executive function however if you were always deficient in dopamine then menopause is the final straw. I had no more cope. No more work arounds. Just nothing left to push through.

[@farmgirl1560]

@@KB-tu4zw same. I keep telling my husband I’ve run out of batteries..even though I’ve barely done anything !!! And the brain fog can be insane at times 🥴

[@mrxquisite]

Think of it this way, Most business people and resellers have ADHD. I have dealt with it my whole life and learned how to manage it and what to do and what I can and can't do.

[@ShelbyMaxwell-h9k]

I’m 65 and just diagnosed with ADHD! It sure explains school days. I have trouble with reading comprehension- I start a book and I slowly wander off and I’ll end up reading the same paragraph half a dozen times. We can fix this 😊

[@kd7872]

OMG, Mel...I can SO relate to most everything you described, and I felt like you were describing me as well as my life. I was also shy and introverted all throughout school, I struggled as a student, went through a traumatizing divorce, and about 15 years ago I became a self-taught family/newborn portrait photographer, and later became bored with that, and transitioned into reselling on Ebay on and off for the past 10 years. I still struggle with focus, concentration, memory, and I often feel "dumb" for not understanding what everyone around me seemed to understand...Oh, and I have a terrible habit of interrupting people LOL! I've always said I fully believe I've had ADD all my life, before they even had a name for it (I was in elementary school in the 1960's). Thankfully, with the help of your psychiatrist, it sounds like you'll now have help getting a better grasp and understanding of things, as well as how to manage your symptoms going forward. I know things will continue to get better and better for you as you continue to navigate your new normal. Wishing you peace and much happiness!

[@unfinishedandunstoppable]

Girl you are not alone! I'm 61 and you and I are cut from the same cloth. I'm a chronic overshadowed, can't stay focused or I'm hyper focused. I'm a professional squirrel spotter! I love your energy and relate to you so much! Thanks for being authentic and sharing your story! ❤

[@BunngalowFarms]

The hyper-focus is real!

[@biffboffo]

I know quite a few women who have been diagnosed with autism as adults. One main reason for the late diagnosis is that the tests were typically geared for boys. It could be that ADHD has been the same way.

[@johnfitton3716]

70 s 80s 90s was dis missed as being naughty shy or awkward ....

[@biffboffo]

@@johnfitton3716 And before that, they tried to beat it out of kids.

[@sarahbull770]

You are correct!

[@miladelpamatmat]

Welcome to the club! I was lucky enough to meet a more progressive doc when I was in uni in the late 90s and having trouble (as usual) living life even though I was a driven and intelligent person. It gave me the means to be understanding of myself and know that I needed to adjust to the way my brain works to be happy and successful in what I do and not be so hard on myself when I have "moments". Definitely let this be a gift that gives you a clearer view of your life path sneaking through the many pretty flowers and trees your mind sees too. And now I should stop watching youtube and get back to shipping! 😂

[@brendadeprefontaine3661]

Girl, you're not alone, I was diagnosed at 61, explained so much of my past life. I had learned to help myself but I went on meds it helped so much. Now seven years later meds are hit miss . I can certainly tell when don't take them productivity is almost non-existent. I'm not stressing, things are what they are.

[@karrief5620]

Great to see you feeling validated with everything you've been dealing with. Don't be scared of the vyvanse. It is being used these days instead of ritalin. It is a stimulant so you might get decreased appetite for a few hours but nothing much more. But the positives you might feel outweigh anything negative. Hopefully you will be able to get things more balanced. :)

[@tibbarasden]

I was diagnosed with autism a few years ago in my mid-thirties. It didn't change the struggles any, but I do give myself a lot more grace now. It is still a journey as sometimes I get down on myself for not being able to do things like other people do.

[@gerben333333]

I was 45 when I was diagnosed with my personality disorders. It felt llike coming home, finally I had all the pieces of the puzzle. I embraced them from day one. This a new exiting journey ❤. Oh, and EMDR is really good.

[@lauradonnell4132]

I love this video soooo much. You had me laughing at so many points! I love listening to the vast amount of topics you cover. Your channel is an awesome resource to help me through some of my more repetitive tasks.... and I usually learn something! So that's a bonus.

[@Pke6853]

Well I do allot of the things you do but never really thought about it. What ever you have I just love you and your honesty just love your videos. You just pick me up and inspire me by your videos don’t change too much you a have a unique character and are never boring you are truely special.

[@stylistswardrobe]

I was diagnosed last year at 37. Look knowing why my brain works the way it does is such a relief but it’s such a hard journey. Decided to not medicate, but not against it. Goodluck ❤

[@jad29376]

Made me a bit sad hearing you call yourself dumb. Never call yourself dumb. One of my sons used to do that because others (at school) understood easily what was taught, but he didn't. He just needed to have the time taken to explain it in a different way. I used to spend hours with him explaining in different ways until I saw that 'switch' in his eyes and I knew he understood. You may process/learn things differently from most, but you are not dumb. ❤

[@singlemomempire]

This is ME!! I'm 42 and can not seem to stick with anything I try 🥴 I hyperfocus, then burn out over and over.

[@OlgaTsang]

Hi Mel! If i had one word to describe you is ,"smart". I have faith in you to navigate through life the best way possible. 😘

[@thomasgowen2552]

Being neurodivergent as well I can relate. Though we have many struggles to overcome in life the resilience and strength we develop through our life time is a super power and we have so much more to offer this world then those that don’t have to work as hard to get as far. Be proud of the life you have built for yourself because you deserve the peace of mind that you have achieved a lot and will achieve much more!

[@holly27796]

I’ve done EMDR! It really really helped me. I hope when you try it, it works for you too.

[@Scorcher62]

Mel's Nuts! We all knew that... that's why we all love ya and follow ya ! Keep being real Mel, being you !

[@SusanMock-nl3py]

My twin grand daughters are both ADHD, they were diagnosed when they were about 7, they have just turned 13. their dad, my son thinks he is also ADHD. He has been researching on the internet. We were talking today about were this has come from. I was describing some of my traits and he was saying tick tick tick. I explained that I was never as rowdy as the twinnies, but just add alcohol and boom. Your right about what you say about starting and stopping, I do it with hobbies. I start something really interesting like coin collecting12 months later it's antiques now it's Ebay, only because I love looking for treasures in op shops. I was running out of room so I started selling on Ebay. and my listing is sporadic. Keep up the good work, I find your really helpful and enjoyable.

[@bandsunnamed]

I can definitely relate to this as someone who has found out they are autistic at 22. I always said I have autistic tendencies but to actually be told that by a mental health professional is a whole other thing. At first I thought great, I’m disabled but only a few months later I can proudly say I’m autistic and wouldn’t want to change that fact. We’re just a little different and that’s okay ❤️

[@chrishnah]

Kelly Brogan has a great book called, "A Mind of Your Own" that you may find helpful. It's on audible as well.