Managing my ADHD in my 30s

Let's talk about ADHD with a late diagnosis in my 30s. Im not a profesh or expert, just a girl sharing her experiences.
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[@charlottebryant860]

I’ve watched you for years and have known there is a reason why I’ve always resonated with you. A large portion of the things you’ve mentioned in this video I also struggle with (especially the thousands of hobbies) and it’s really so comforting to hear your experience. Thank you Helen 🤍

[@helenanderz]

I’m glad xxxx

[@kingsandchandeliers]

from one adhd girlie to another, i absolutely loved this video! it was soo relatable and the bit about relationships is spot on - all we want is to be seen, heard and loved! wishing you all the peace, love and happiness in the world! ✨

[@HannahMcVay]

Watched you since the purple hair and creepers days, I got diagnosed with Autism last year and suspect I have ADHD too at the ripe age of 27 woo, but I find it interesting how much neurodivergent people connect and relate without even knowing these things! for me it's been rough but the growth this rollercoaster ride brings creates a lot of optimism about the future. Keep being you!😊

[@helenanderz]

Energy !! Xx

[@benkeane2185]

Helen my partner adores you and after seeing the amount of negativity directed at you in comments and other places I was disgusted. You're an honest woman who deserves everything you've worked for and i will be a subscriber for life, like and watch every video as i stand side-by-side with you and all my neuro-divergent brothers and sisters. Stay strong.

[@helenanderz]

Awwwh thank you!!! Xxxx

[@TheBethKeane]

@@helenanderzI am said partner and this made my evening 👏🏻🤍

[@justinemariestone]

I’ve been following you for at least a decade now & you’ve always been my fave on all socials and this is why. Thank you for always being so real, it’s truly so refreshing💖 Also as an adhd girlie myself~ I’d definitely try a higher dose bc the same has happened to me and when I raised it it helped greatly! Finding the right med & dose that calms the brain makes life so great😭 thank you again for talking about this, I love hearing about your journey in life.

[@AngeliqueHoarau]

I've been binging on your videos the last couple of days! You are so articulate and give me a feel good feeling. Even when you're not feeling that good.. so thank you x

[@evamwildschut]

Hi Helen, thanks so much for this video. I have been enjoying your content for about 7 years now, but really appreciate you sharing such personal experiences because these ADHD videos have really been helping me and I'm sure a lot of others whilst trying to navigate a (potential) diagnoses. THANK YOU❤

[@helenanderz]

You’re welcome xxx

[@ninahupen-bestendonk2341]

Helen thank you so much for this. I‘ve been following you on and off for years (just not a regular KZbin consumer) and I was diagnosed with ADHD at 39 a year ago. Since then I‘ve been struggling to find content and strategies for ADHD that I could relate to and this video is one of the few occasions that were so relatable. Thank you so much for talking about your tips and please keep them coming ❤️

[@lornaeve]

Absolutely spot on! You explain what it's like living with ADHD so well 💜

[@piddlydiddly]

Lovely video, so happy you've found a fellow adhder. I found my husband before both of us were diagnosed (asd, but both suspect adhd too) and it's a world of difference being with someone who just gets us, everything is so much easier.

[@helenanderz]

Yessss xxx

[@RebeccaLouiseDoyle]

I absolutely loved this video Helen. I found it so relatable. I suspect my daughter & me are autistic, my husband 100% has ADHD - I believe he was told so as a child but being the 80s it was never followed up - and it's really made me more aware of the emotional sensitivity side of it as he is very much like this, but I am very black and white and sometimes can be hurtful without meaning to. we both love each other to death but struggle with each other's needs. I think we may pursue private diagnosis as you did after watching this, I think it could be really helpful for some clarity.

[@EleynaAviendah]

Hi Helen, your video from June 2022 when you first mentioned that you got diagnosed was actually for me what the conversations with you friend and acquaintance were for you! It was the first moment that sparked the idea that I might have ADHD as well. Next week, almost 2 years later I am finally getting my assessment for ADHD and Autism! Thank you for sharing your story because I've been on such a discovery journey since and it has changed my life for the better

[@djccskip]

Thank you for sharing this. It's so validating to have someone else describe my experience. I'm so good at masking, I could have never realized I had adhd if it weren't for other's sharing.

[@lisaa9430]

Love this video so much! I was diagnosed in December 2023, and started meds at that time too. It’s the most transformational thing that’s ever happened to me, especially the emotional regulation aspect. But also it took my fibromyalgia pain away (apparently that can happen for some people). Your tips are incredibly helpful :)…I’d also recommend the podcast ADHD for Smartass woman - it’s so helpful and so entertaining :)

[@tashatann4914]

Love this so much, has made me feel so much better about my adhd this morning❤

[@Jennpea707]

Ive always struggled with depression and anxiety since 18 which seemed to come out of nowhere for no reason! At 34 i am going through the process of getting assessed through nhs, my 11 yr old son too ! Im hoping we get some answers. Ive always jumped from different jobs, leave for no reason. Ive been a postwoman for 6 years now and thats the longest ive gone in a job, i think thats because i get regular exercise which is a dopamine high. Long list of hobbies that i never follow through with lol saxophone, card making, felting, wreath making, coding. I start decorating the house but never seem to finish a room completly before i move to the next project. Housework is a never ending chore. I find what helps is talking to myself out loud in the morning, cmon gotta get out of bed, get in the shower etc. If i am productive in the morning it sets me up for the day but oh my lord its difficult. If i have annual leave i seem to do sweet fa. 😂 then get guilty and depressed that ive done nothing! Long time viewer here and appreciate you bringing attention to adhd ! Youre a bad ass! ❤

[@sarahcreasey8592]

I was diagnosed 2 years ago and am now 24 years old. Honestly it was one of the best but also worth times of my life. It's so hard to describe how I felt after diagnosis... it was certainly hard to accept everything but I could not be happier 2 years on. I understand myself and even though I still struggle, I know how to navigate it better! One specific thing both I, and alot of others underestimate and don't realise is how hard it is to work a normal 9-5 job with ADHD.. and because of this, ADHD is infact one of the largest contributing disabilities that qualifies for successful PIP claims. I'm a tattooist and I do anything on the side that I possibly can JUST to make ends meet, but I'd take that anyday, over the financial security of being in an office because it will simply make me go insane! Thank you for speaking out x

[@aalyssaz]

This video is really speaking to where I am right now. Thanks Helen 💖

[@weekendwellness8705]

Hi Helen, because of you I also researched adhd as I resonated with it, and last year got diagnosed at ADHD Norfolk also (combined type😅) thanks so much ❤

[@christineesparza5417]

Your such a comfort Helen💘 when i watch your videos it feels like home.

[@helenanderz]

Awh thank you xx

[@christineesparza5417]

❤❤❤ love from southern California. If you ever visit, let me know!! We could totally be friends lol

[@misssjw]

Your partner sounds incredible! I got diagnosed last year at 33 and my husband was diagnosed a few months earlier. I feel like I definitely need to be kinder to myself, I blame myself for my clumsiness and all of the ‘traits’ I’d rather not have. I was naturally intelligent as a kid and that meant nothing got investigated despite several issues being flagged to my parents over the years. I’m starting medications soon hopefully - I tried some of my husbands medication and the whole day felt like a giant hyper focus, it was incredible! Sending positive energy to you my love, I watch all the time but never comment - I related with every word you said. You are amazing and you look so happy and content. X

[@brucetann5887]

Thank you so much for sharing this. My 26 year old Daughter has recently been dignosed with ADHD and this really helps me to understand what she has been going through and hopefully how I can help and support her. Like yourself she is a beautiful, creative intelligent young Woman and this will help so much.

[@martinaoneill5736]

You should do ADHD merch 😮 I'm fellow a adhd'er too 😂 "spaghetti brain" on a cap! I'd wear the shit out of that haha

[@MeganD-jc8rz]

Yes let’s trivialise a neurodevelopmental disorder by way of putting it on a T-shirt. It’s extremely debilitating for so many of us. It’s already mocked thanks to panorama and people roll their eyes if you tell them. It’s currently very difficult to get support as it is because people refer to it as superpower. It’s ridiculous sure fast way to further alienate those of us genuinely struggling.

[@martinaoneill5736]

This video was really helpful 💛 thank you so much x

[@Christine-ru5ew]

I always say this, but as a long time follower of yours, I feel like I’ve grown with you! I’m 32, about to be 33, and just got diagnosed last week. Thank you for always sharing what you’ve learned and being real. It’s appreciated more than you know! 🧡

[@helenanderz]

Awwwh I hope you feel better having clarity xx

[@anteacolletti2755]

I decided to get tested for adhd and your experience on the subject (this video included) is one of the many reasons. So thank you so much! I resonated with almost everything you said so I hope to get my answer as well

[@DystopianOverture]

I have just been re-prescribed meds for my ADHD first the first time as an adult. I used to take them as a kid however side effects were horrible and wanted to try on my own. Never regretted my decision as I ended up learning coping strats. However when I hit 25 I found I wasn't coping anymore. So after 4.5 years of being on the NHS waiting list and just in time as I turn 30 in April I got my first ever prescription in 14 years. Fun thing about ADHD is the ability to sniff out ADHD in others, like we know how to find our people. I've watched you since 2011 and always got a 'I think you maybe one of us' vibe from the way you spoke. You explain yourself and things in a way that makes it hella easier to pay attention and understand better. Typically those people who have that ability have ADHD I find.

[@emilyjess6418]

I have just been told today when I called to see where I was on the waiting list and where I live I'm looking at a 3 year waiting period. Thank you for sharing your experiences it really helps.

[@helenanderz]

Noooo xx but also you’re welcome xxx

[@snxlxphant09]

Unironically it took me 3 goes to watch this video (in parts) because I kept getting distracted (ADHD brain) 😂 I’ve loved your content since the Melon Lady days and have always related to you. Now I’m newly diagnosed and almost 30. I’m here for all the spicy brain content!! It’s tough out here. Sending love ❤

[@CazHbokbok]

Great video, thanks!

[@danthechatterboxman]

My sister recently got diagnosed and this video is really helping me to understand more about this and how to support them ❤

[@helenanderz]

Oh I’m glad I can help! Just listening and patience xxx

[@wolvacrafts]

Never thought ”oh se probably has adhd” before you told us about your diagnosis. Been into everything you do since the first video of Melon era 🍉You have a magical way of making everything interesting how ever mundane it might be to you 🧡 maybe having adhd has always been a part of this unspoken understanding that pulled me in. I’ve been diagnosed long ago when I was kid but had to find all the tools I have now on my own to handle myself. Still learning ✨

[@helenanderz]

Awh thank you! Maybe it’s a connection ! Xx

[@sarawatkins1086]

Thanks for this Helen. I was diagnosed in December at age 35 after decades of feeling like there was something really wrong with me!

[@helenanderz]

hooray for clarity! xx

[@muffindolphindaphnee]

Thank you for being so real ❤

[@helenanderz]

That’s ok! Xx

[@lauren8627]

No wonder I've clicked with your content for so long! Loooiiing time subscriber ❤

[@helenanderz]

Haha! Xxx

[@nimrodgrrrl]

Wow, I can’t believe how much your diagnosis cost. My autism diagnosis has been $200 a session and then $850 to have the report released to me (which I can do on a payment plan, but I just haven’t started that up yet); but yeah. I’m in Australia and it’s been very expensive, I’ve had a tonne of sessions too.

[@lyssloupoo]

You inspired me to finally go and I was diagnosed at 28 ❤ still trying to figure out the right medicine for me!

[@helenanderz]

it's a journey thats for sure!

[@gymismytemple]

😂 I do the shoe thing too!

[@AuntyM66]

I still having problems with ADHD at 50 plus.😱😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫

[@user-cy1ww2rx1c]

Your best video yet

[@helenanderz]

Thank you! Xxx

[@Indijana]

My best friend had ADHD. I say had, because he passed away. But also was mocked by people around him for having so many different hobbies and/or obsessions, and cycling through them so quickly. I just never understood why people judge others for such inconsequential things. I never even computed that he did that until he said something about it "being a thing". Luckily, it didn't bother him too much, but I just hate how people with mental health issues (including myself, because I have AvPD) are judged for things they might not have so much control on, especially when its something that's not even that harmful in general. 🤷🏻‍♀️ Edit: spelling/grammar

[@helenanderz]

Sorry to hear about your friend ❤️

[@lucytyler2407]

hey helen! Please can you share where you diagnosed? i’m looking for a good private place if you can advise! thanks hon!

[@DreamersArmy]

Fellow ADHDer here!

[@helenanderz]

hello!! xx

[@stephaniedasilvaox]

Hey heyyyyy

[@helenanderz]

HELLOOOO

[@purple1pumpkin]

Ok, I have ADHD for sure 😅 when realization hits you 🎉😂

[@MeganD-jc8rz]

No you probably do not

[@ErikaGarcia-oz1lk]

Wait. When does it stop being depression amd start being ADHD because I suffer with self-loathing and comparison A LOT.

[@MeganD-jc8rz]

That is not even remotely what adhd is. That is a manifestation of it. It’s not like adhd sounds like a better trade of than just having “boring old depression” it’s absolutely debilitating and affects every part of your life in so many ways.

[@MeganD-jc8rz]

Comparison and self loathing can be felt by adhders as secondary emotions due to how difficult adhd symptoms are to manage. The same way these emotions can be felt secondary to anxiety or trauma. Great misinformation spreading though Helen

[@ErikaGarcia-oz1lk]

@MeganD-jc8rz Well I only replied specifically to those 2 symptoms and trust me I have more that matched, just didn't k own those 2 specifically ones could also mean ADHD. But it's a KZbin comment that got picked apart. I don't armchair diagnose.

[@CloudyTurbulence]

I wonder how you were able to stick with youtube for so long as that started as a hobby

[@helenanderz]

I don’t know how to put this without it sounded ungrateful, but I wasn’t SUPER into it… I just did it every now n then and it turned into my job 😂 when I refer to hobby, I mean getting side tracked by things like Arts and crafts or skating or picking up an instrument and it doing it none stop for like a month then moving on to something else. You tube was a slow burn

[@CloudyTurbulence]

@@helenanderz Thanks for replying, i'd forgotten id even left this comment. To be fair if you pick up skating every 2 years withing 10 years you will be better than you were at the beginning. I don't think a skill should be measured in the amount of time it took to learn it so if anyone makes you feel bad for switching it up just brush them off.

[@pAsDeNoMzUt]

They didn't really dump you into the world if they offered you coaching to learn to manage ADHD though? Honestly that isn't too bad. If you do take the coaching sessions, I'd love a video series on what you've learned as I struggle to cope myself.

[@Megan-fb2pu]

Laughing at myself because it took me over an hour to watch this 30 minute video 😂 been considering going down the diagnosis route so maybe I should look into that more seriously. Some really good tips in here, loved the one about writing your priorities for the day and then what you actually ended up doing. It's amazing what people think of that seems so obvious once you've heard it but never occurred to you 🫶🏼✨

[@helenanderz]

Hahaaaaa xx