Neuroscience of ADHD

ADHD might seem like a convenient excuse to be able to medicate your overactive child. But it turns out that ADHD is a real diagnosis with a different combination of symptoms for each person. There are still a lot of questions surrounding it. What causes it? How is it treated? And what does ADHD look like in the brain? Well, we dive into exactly those topics. In addition, two of our close friends, Cindy and Steve, both have ADHD and they share their experiences and how life as an adult is with ADHD.
Huge, huge thank you to Cindy and Steve for their openness and insight. There was a lot of footage from the interview that we didn't use, but it was all incredible. We feel lucky to have such kind, smart, giving friends. This video would not have been nearly as interesting without their help.
Sources:
www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topic...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2...
www.additudemag.com/ritalin-a...
www.additudemag.com/medicatio...
www.additudemag.com/adderall-...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
www.jaacap.org/article/S0890-...
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#neuroscience #adhd #brain

[@alisakimi1]

You don't outgrow ADHD you always have it, some people can cope/manage it better than others.

[@self-loveletters6313]

If it’s treated in early childhood you can go into remission.

[@animaniacs538]

there has been some research finding that low dose amphetamines can "cure" Adhd

[@Hugo-dc9nd]

@@self-loveletters6313 Remission? It's not like cancer! It's not even disease.

[@raluthesoftboy]

Adhd is definitely not a disease, it's a neurodivergency, a different type of wiring, just like autism is. And the reason why girls get diagnosed less is bc very little people actually believe them. I'm trans non binary, afab, but before transitioning it took my therapist 2 years of therapy to diagnose me, despite the fact that I'm a textbook case, and it's extreamly visible that I have the combined type of adhd. My new phychiatrist told me she saw I have adhd the moment I came through the door at my first appointment.

[@RPlaza-ht9gp]

@@self-loveletters6313 please state sources where the way your literal brain is wired can go into remission.

[@the0elite]

As someone who is diagnosed with ADHD, I swear I found myself losing focus of the video multiple times and having to rewind to listen to what i missed. This is something that happens daily to me and boy is it frustrating sometimes.

[@m0w0ss]

thank you for reminding me how much i suck at focussing with adhd.....

[@sal70]

Fully, I have inattentive adhd and I forget that I'm supposed to be paying attention with most things

[@Vincisomething]

Me in every class I've been in which is why I would have to record it. I have no idea how I got through without recording.

[@-Liska]

This comment made me realize that I preventatively put the video on 1,5 speed to keep me from zoning out as fast

[@359339]

I always have a second thing to do while watching videos. Eating of course, but also having a small window next to the video where I can play 2048. Planning for optimal stimulation is a way to avoid subconsciously seeking that out once you've already started something.

[@bebeezra]

_"ADHD is not an impairment of knowing what to do - but rather _*_doing what you know."_* - Russell Barkley PhD No explanation describes my life experience coping with ADHD better than that quote.

[@SirArthurTheGreat]

I don’t get it?

[@deussivenatura5805]

@@SirArthurTheGreat You know what it is you need to do, but you cannot bring yourself to do it.

[@geewiz8253]

@@deussivenatura5805 motivation = dopamine...

[@nataliestruve9736]

Dr.Barkley is great!

[@fourthhorsemendeath218]

I love this. Often I find doing what I NEED to do just isnt engaging or fun so I dont do them

[@dianacutie99]

As someone who was diagnosed at 17 years old, I'm tired of people thinking ADHD is only for kids. Thank you so much for bringing visibility to neurodivergence in adulthood!

[@Smokasaurus]

I was diagnosed at about that same age as well. My last year of high school was nearly straight A's even though I had been barely scraping by until then since the 5th grade. Sometimes I wonder how different my life would be if I'd have been diagnosed in 5th grade.

[@NotSoLegendaryGreen]

Diagnosed at 23 after it narrowly succeeded at getting me to drop out of college. It's not a kid thing, it's just a brain thing.

[@LoveLaw]

I was also diagnosed at 17 and suddenly my whole life made sense lol.

[@hoorayitsjackie6166]

Diagnosed at 35, I’m 37. Y’all are still kids. 😂

[@Smokasaurus]

@@hoorayitsjackie6166 32 now, still taking my meds 😅

[@ccgg1129]

Ahhh, the way this couple supports each other is so cute

[@Shannon-xi4ol]

It's how ppl are meant to support and validate. Not just cute

[@Benayah130]

Being where I've had to live my whole life and how social relationships work here, it is quite refreshing to see that there can be this strong a connection between people, and I hope to be even half as lucky to end up with even half of what they have! Nuff said!

[@not_potaytoes_hobbit]

Awwww I loved seeing them

[@FIGHTlikeWOLVES]

Thank you for showing adults with adhd who are successful in there fields!

[@kents.2866]

I'm just wondering how they got this far? I couldn't even make it through a 4 year degree.

[@nameless592]

Exactly everything else I’ve seen has been so doom and gloom. Someone actually said people with adhd are likely to be impoverished and freaked me tf out. Like na that can’t be

[@humpinggerald]

Sorry it’s a pet peeve Their*

[@kents.2866]

@@nameless592 yeah untreated ADHD can certainly cause job loss and working for low paying jobs.

[@yuyismama812]

@@nameless592 Kent Is correct. I dropped out of college and know all about being unable to keep a job bc I get bored with it quickly or other symptoms of ADHD get out of control, causing me to think everyone hates me or that I'm going to get fired..and quit before the assumption of rejection comes true.. It also has an affect on punctuality and there you are more likely to be fired for issues with attendance. Adhd is a wild, crazy, messy, thing but it can be a good thing if you figure out how to use it to your advantage.

[@gracebergeon2155]

i have two sisters and all three of us have been diagnosed with ADHD. we think our dad has it too but he would never go to the doctor for that let alone consider he has any kind of psychological disorder. crazy how genetic ADHD actually is

[@jadeharley7190]

Got diagnosed with it in October, when I mentioned it to my aunt (moms side) she goes “oh I’m not surprised basically the whole family has it” lol

[@sonja7halcyon]

Yeah same with my Dad. It’s really a shame my whole family would get on better if they acknowledged and accepted their difficulties instead of insisting there is nothing wrong with them.

[@jriv75]

Great video. I was diagnosed with ADHD in my early forties after struggling with depression and sever anxiety from the age of 8. I was a good student and athlete but hated myself for being lazy because I didn't want to work harder. Even the things I was good at made me anxious. Going to school or work was excruciating. I was suicidal when I finally began medication. Everything changed instantly after that. My brain finally stopped long enough for me to catch my breath. Most people have no idea how ADHD can affect adults. It can be debilitating.

[@Alfonso222]

Wow, that's incredible. I've been going through the same thing my whole life, and I've finally made an appointment with my doctor to seek evaluation at age 26. I know how hard it is living like this, feeling like even the smallest tasks can take monumental effort, and all the shame and self-hate that comes with it. I know you made this comment 11 months ago, but seriously, great job getting through it. I can't imagine having such strength to keep going on like that all the way into your forties. Comments like yours give me the hope I need some days to keep going :)

[@Ihh956]

Ive also gone through the same things. I always felt like no one understood. Well glad to say your not alone. We of all people understand eachother.

[@samdp42]

I work a suicide prevention hotline. I ALWAYS ask about a ND diagnosis. Most people with have it or believe they have it but can’t afford treatment. There is a huge link between suicide ideation and adhd. I always tell people to use coping skills from Adhd people. You don’t have to have the meds to function well.

[@samdp42]

@@Alfonso222 any update?

[@sonja7halcyon]

Similar story here too! Depressed and anxious since 7, suicidal and last year the penny dropped it could be ADHD. At 34 yrs old going for my first assessment in April. I can’t wait to the meds and get out of this nightmare existence. Debilitating for sure!!

[@smp6565]

"Most people outgrow adhd" Every single adhder I know: "it got worse"

[@the_udmurt]

Fr. I didn't have it when I was a child

[@ualgun]

I'm a second year medical student with ADHD-PI. Among my peers and my family, a lack of understanding for our condition is very palpable. Most people simply do not grasp that the lack of motivation and attention stems from a neurochemical deficit. On a personal note, a lot of things from the interview with the lovely couple (forgot their names already, hah!) resonated with me, especially about not feeling like you've deserved it, or having trouble with believing that you are actually good at something. I find comfort in the fact that I am not the only one with this condition (and a fellow med student as well, wow!), and that we are all trying our best to overcome it. To all my peers out there, remember that the path is a long and tortuous one, just keep your chin up, and keep at it, success will follow.

[@neurotransmissions]

Wow, what a wonderful comment! Cindy and Steve really are lovely and I'm glad their stories resonate with others. So funny to hear from another med student! Keep it up!

[@cheri7054]

I wish I could be successful. I have other learning challenges. I go from one low paying job to another.

[@auliaangraini33]

yaps lets keep the chin up... Iam ADHD and on the way to finish my residency.. so nothing is impossible as long as you have faith for it. It is HARD.. but we have no choice but keep moving forward I guess

[@fraufuchs9555]

You forgot their names and I haven't even noticed they saying them 😂

[@mindfuleats4517]

What neurochemical?

[@Corporis]

I really like the incorporation of interviews in this one. Added a nice touch of human element and told the story of the science nicely. Well done Ali and Micah!

[@neurotransmissions]

Thanks so much! We were so lucky to have friends willing to share their experiences. They are awesome people.

[@geewiz8253]

Much better written than my version 👍 👍

[@geewiz8253]

@Wells Miles Wtf.

[@nonabonn]

I think adhd has one of the most misleading names - we don't a deficit of attention, we just can't control **what** we pay attention to. Adhd isn't the average "oh I'm not particularly interested in this class, I'd rather pass notes to my friend," it's more like " I know there's an important test coming up in this class, I know I don't understand the material, I need to pay attention, I **want** to pay attention, but I can't"

[@debbiejones7269]

Yes! It's not a deficit, it's a regulation issue.

[@lucywoomy]

I have an idea for changing the name while keeping the acronym! Attention *Regulation* Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder. The R is silenced in the acronym but it's still there. Idk if this name is accurate though

[@sleettheicewing2364]

I know I have ADHD, but hearing and knowing that others have the same. It gets me in an emotional way.

[@Ihh956]

I'm gonna be honest. I cried when I read all the comments. Its like I felt understood for the 1st time.

[@madinotmaddie6140]

When I got my diagnosis and started getting treatment for ADHD it was like I put glasses on for the first time. Before I was diagnosed with ADHD, I was diagnosed and treated for depression and anxiety. Now that I’m managing my ADHD, I’m finally able to focus, finish tasks, stay motivated, and I notice changes in other areas as well such as emotional regulation. It’s definitely a very unique and fascinating mental illness but I think what was said towards the end is exactly how we should approach mental illnesses in society. We shouldn’t expect every person to conform to the same societal norms and expectations in work, school, etc. Hollywood and media also needs to do a better job of how they portray mental illnesses. It’s overdramatized way too often…

[@Dancestar1981]

I have heard other experts describing the experience when treatment works as exactly like someone who can’t see putting on glasses for the first time

[@Dancestar1981]

What medication worked for you because different ones work for different people

[@DietEllie]

I started on meds when I was in the fourth grade, and the very first day I took them, my teachers asked my mom if I was okay... Because I was able to focus and stay relatively still throughout the school day.

[@seifghazi5896]

I actually tried adderall before being diagnosed. My first thought when I tried it was "damn this how my brain is supposed work". It really did feel like putting glasses on for the first time. A new world.

[@joysworld6020]

As a person diagnosed at 2 year old and since with adhd everybody like doctors and teachers and just people in general will tell you that you suck at school or that you're going to fail in school or that you cant make it to collage... and seeing Someone with adhd have a big Career is amazing to me and so inspiring

[@khxliakhxlia3605]

For those of you who dont have big career and for those who feel like they can feel special without a "big career" you dont need one at all. You dont need to go above and beyond to feel accepted by others. Even a "small" career is okay.

[@fourthhorsemendeath218]

As someone with high functioning ADHD myself, I can tell the two being interviewed have it without them telling me. It was the avoiding of direct eye contact for a prolonged period of time, and the fidgeting of the hands. Even though I can hold down jobs and drive cars, ADHD still really affects me in my daily life

[@marianaanaya2154]

This helped me understand my boyfriend way better. He's been diagnosed with the hyperactive-impulsive subtype since he was a kid and he never ever ever shuts up. Thanks so much!

[@geewiz8253]

Aaaaw... ❤️ 💕 🥰 You’re a caring girlfriend, and your honesty on your experience is hilarious.

[@ThisisBarris]

As someone who has also been recently diagnosed with ADHD (Without the hyperactive part too, I'm a pretty passive guy haha), thank you for this video. It was a brilliant interview and it's pretty motivational to see how successful they've become despite their ADHD. Personally, I learned a lot from my own condition and I'll share it with those around me that don't take my condition seriously... The first time I took my medication was truly a life changing so it is truly sad when people judge you for taking them.

[@neurotransmissions]

That's wonderful to hear! Thanks for sharing your own story. I feel like the more we talk about it, the less scary and strange it will seem. 🙂

[@ThisisBarris]

@@neurotransmissions Yes, definitely! I just wish people started taking it more seriously and didn't just belittle it as a lack of will power.

[@Phrenotopia]

@Barris Hey! It sounds like we have similar stories! ADDer here!

[@dad7493]

Welcome to the gang! c:

[@tiffanypierson9262]

I have ADHD type inattentive and epilspy. I'm not sure if you ever mentioned it there there is a fine line between medicine with these because there are several ADHD medicines that lower the seizure threshold.

[@leighclifton8335]

Listening to the couple at the beginning make me think I may need to see the doctor. I suffer from depression caused by my inability to ever achieve anything. I normally refer to myself as a compulsive procrastinator. I actually got distracted writing this comment. I opened my phone after about 30 minutes and realised I’d been writing a comment.

[@tobiasdontmatter1868]

Anapanasati vipassana meditation. Look into it and your Attention Deficit issues will dissipate

[@linus2073]

@@tobiasdontmatter1868 Meditation is awesome, but it takes a lot of passion and endurance, that's pretty hard for an AD(H)D person. The mind is such an ape cache with this disorder (or at least has been for me) so meditation is absolutely necessary I think too. Pretty hard when starting at the bottom to stick to a new habit in that headspace tho. I can recommend a less stimulating lifestyle, like dopamine fasting but longterm :) and habits like chess, reading, meditation of course and maybe trying neurofeedback. Have you completely lifted the burdens of your disorder by meditation? 🧘‍♂️ keep it up and greetings

[@Tenju96]

It's soooo difficult to talk about it!! I mentioned it to a friend who told me that if I can live with it then it's not a disorder, my friend doctor just said that I don't look like her regular ADHD patients but has agreed to look further into it after I threw at her the 50 ADHD symptoms I have that don't include "jumping-around-8-year-old-boy", the handicap director at work started speaking about Asperger for 30 minutes then finally started listening, the work doctor had to google ADHD then told me to try harder, thank you that's so helpful, my mom said I don't think you have ADHD, it seems like more than that, like your anger is so violent, I angrily told her to learn more about it, and recently the regular doctor told me it was insomnia and looked at me with a condescending smile when I mentioned ADHD, basically saying it was a trend and every kid now goes to a psychiatrist. So I'm not close to getting any help, even after diagnosing myself, which was not supposed to be my job, but all of the people my mom took me to when younger and the people I still go and see once in a while even if I don't trust them anymore..

[@jenniferk.945]

Sorry you’re going through that. I hope you find a decent healthcare professional that will diagnose you soon!

[@daring6983]

It’s possible to diagnose yourself?

[@Phrenotopia]

This is a great way to introduce the condition! Everyone can get bored and lose focus, but when it's affecting your life significantly you need the diagnosis. As someone who got an ADD diagnosis very late in life, at an age of 45, I can't fathom how I was able to manage for so long, but it was in spurts and fueled by energetic music. I know the term ADD has been subsumed by ADHD in North America in any case, but I'm not fond of that, since I don't have and don't identify with the hyperactive aspect.

[@varrantgreen4259]

Its funny how one of the most talked about side effects is disruption of sleep. But for me adderall made me feel like I slept for real for the first time in my life.

[@nervousthumbsup]

Yes! Adderall makes me so calm I have to keep doing tasks to avoid falling asleep on the days I take it.

[@gamewrit0058]

Yeah, if I take my Focalin in the evening instead of morning, I sleep better, but I need it for focusing on boring tasks at my job. Might be time to try extended release.

[@bec3581]

I've been told by every teacher I've ever had that it's not that I can't do my work, it's that I can't. I've gotten really good marks on my work but it's so freaking difficult to sit down and just... Work.

[@ameisha2471]

As a medical student with ADHD this really resonated with me! I like how the video included interviews and perspectives of ADHD.

[@Ihh956]

Medical student! You go girl!!

[@sawyersnow6513]

I was wondering of my personal symptoms of ADHD and realized I had zoned out like 5 times and paused it various other times while watching.

[@amyserret6923]

Ahhh same I'm following you now 😂😂

[@Benayah130]

Watching this has been really encouraging, as a Nigerian (born and raised) I've never been treated, but it's good to finally "put a face to this" as it's been my reality my whole life, but finding out that this can all be manageable, watching these two both understand and be there for each other, plus the effective nature of proper treatment for this is incredibly encouraging in the most sureal sense to say the least. I'm grateful (ironically enough) that 'stimuli chasing' lead me to this and my hope feels much less naive now!

[@MontRoMMancer]

Thank you. I was diagnosed at 43 and the way Cindy explained how she felt is EXACTLY how I feel. Thank you for sharing your stories.

[@nvaranavage]

Whenever I have people tell me that ADHD is an excuse for not applying myself I always respond with "I am so happy that you have a fully functioning executive functioning section of your brain, mine just happens to be slower than yours, so it takes me longer to process the information that takes you mere seconds to process. I work a lot harder than you everyday to complete things.". It is usually followed by them asking me what executive function is, and they completely miss the fact that in a sly way I insulted them.

[@Ihh956]

Ive grown up with my family thinking I was crazy and a bad difficult kid. Never felt from them that they understood me. Lack of focus...horrible impulse control and managing conflicts...its rough. And you act out as a child when no one gets you.

[@jcgmaudlin]

As others have said, I'm also thankful that you chose professionals to star in this video. I was diagnosed a year ago and when my provider moved away, the replacement told me he didn't fully support my ADHD diagnosis due to my good grades. Yet, I am working full time while only taking a class or two at a time and sleep is the first to go when I have deadlines to meet. It's frustrating that I have been without Adderall, since it was like discovering a better me when I first went on it. I had bouts of depression as I was weaned off of it, because I missed the "Adderall Me." Even now, as I am "relaxing", I am playing a game on the computer and the phone to watch youtube, while intermittently crocheting. Not being able to swap between activities makes productivity impossible, but I am hoping he will listen to me this next appointment and I'll be put back on it.

[@netpilot5]

When dealing with mental health, you need to actively advocate for yourself and participate in your treatment. Sometimes we feel like doctors know what’s best for us because of their education and expertise. Sometimes we perceive them to be an authority figure and are afraid put out foot down against a new treatment that isn’t working well. Only you know how you feel inside and what is working best for you. Unless your new provider can give you something that works better than your previous solution (and pretty soon, because you don’t want your inability to concentrate or lack of sleep to affect your work or your grades, let alone your over all sense of well-being), you might do well to find another provider. It may sound daunting, but you’ll be better off in the long run. Like any good relationship (whether personal, professional, or medical), both of you need to be on the same page, see eye-to-eye, and be comfortable with each other. I sincerely wish you well.

[@weirdflex8158]

Well you gotta put that guy on his place I would never accept that kind of trash care

[@Agpals]

This channel is like a gold mine :') I am a current uni student studying psychology and am highly interested in neuroscience in particular. I saw this video about ADHD which drew me in. Then I watched your video on participating in a research study and had no idea people could openly sign up for one. Thank goodness my school actually has a study open which made me super exciting because it was something I've always wanted to do :)

[@sethjg3d]

You're either hyper-aware of time and start counting seconds, or you look down and an hour past.

[@togamistaken6753]

it might sound mean but it's a real relief for me to know that what I'm going through might not be because I'm lazy or because I want to upset people, but it might actually be something out of my control as of right now. it's somewhat relieving

[@kaiedwards9032]

The way the guy was explaining what it felt like when he took his meds for the first time was literally me for like 2 weeks. I would take my meds, play on my phone or watch tv or something, and then like 20-30 minutes later felt like I was on crack and wanted to get everything done right in that moment. I would usually take it when I woke up before heading to class and then while driving to class I would feel them kick in and suddenly I’d be hyper focused on the lines on the road

[@mumrik3471]

I was diagnosed with ADD about ten years ago. Four years ago I also got an Aspbergers diagnosis. I can really relate to Steve's behavior in this video as I too find it difficult to formulate sentences. It's a bit frustrating to find the right words to say, and simultaneously trying to not change the subject. Since eye contact doesn't come naturally to me, I tend to focus my gaze elsewhere during a conversation. People may interpret this as a rude behavior, but it keeps me from getting distracted. Anyways, I really enjoyed this video! It showed a wholesome take on ADHD without lacking interesting/important information. 👍

[@brookiecookie6586]

Can you please tell me how you went about getting your diagnosis for the Autism spectrum? I really feel like I am on the spectrum but when I bring it up to my dr or psychiatrist they say next time, next time.

[@mumrik3471]

@@brookiecookie6586 I actually got an appointment with a psychologist for CBT therapy. There, I talked about my difficulties with social behavior and other things and I think I cried during almost every meeting. After a few sessions the psychologist suggested that we started an Aspbergers investigation and I got the diagnosis after 2 tests (there were 3 tests in total). It was actually just a coincidence that the doctor happened to be a specialist, and that he wanted to do the tests. If you want a specialist on the subject, I think you need to be firm with your doctor and not give up. And it might not even be autism, it could be something else. But at least you'll know that you've tried.

[@Ihh956]

I still find it hard to think of the right words when I'm put on the spot...or even in conversation... Ive written poetry since I was little. And writing was the only time my words came out the way I meant them to.

[@kavabean]

Thank you Cindy and Steve. Seeing your story helped me.

[@pmraul2921]

THANK YOU SO MUCH for putting this together and for Cindy and Steve for sharing. You described so much that has happened throughout my life. I've always had good grades and always reached some level of success then somehow I would reset jobs/fail-loss of job/loss of focus-poor performance. Feels good to hear that I'm not alone.

[@acecadet2587]

I've never related more to someone than Cindy. I have the same reactions sometimes when I talk about certain things that seem entirely inconsequential in hindsight. But the feelings are still so massive and there. Even if they didn't come out at the time, talking about it in the present just triggers tears for me. It's something I've been working on with my therapist but its so valuable to see someone else have that same experience and reaction. I've always randomly burst into tears over seemingly no reason and I'm starting to realize that there WERE reasons. A whole lot of tangled reasons that I never had the tools or the chance to work with until very recently. Thank you both for taking the time to share your stories. It's so refreshing to know that there's a whole bunch of us all doing our best and thriving for it.

[@cateybug123]

Just got diagnosed in my adulthood. I got on medication and wow, my entire life is different lol. So much better. Adhd is totally real! As a girl, it took until my adulthood to be diagnosed which is common.

[@akikihou]

The real adhd experience watching this: “too long, got distracted, I’ll come back to it in a few months or so”

[@brandymiskell7654]

I saw on another ADHD vid someone in the comments recommend to speed it up 2X and it really helps!

[@LoraleiBayette]

Golden tip. Thank you. Just tried it haha

[@neotower420]

When I hit 25-30, my body experienced its final change I believe. What happened was I had fully integrated myself into "the real world", but I hadnt adjusted or prepared myself properly. Life moves fast and I'm wired differently, when I finally accepted this things got better, and a weight started to fade from my perception, I was axious over subconscious frustration. I'd like to add a final observation, this was always part of my natural development. There just wasnt enough research on ADD when I was younger, I was diagnosed properly but the proper guidance and treatment didnt exist yet. reflecting on myself, meditating, writing and art, talking to others in a constuctive manner, finishing goals and improving, learning another language. I've been doing everything I can to finally wrestle control of my reality, and I'm now starting to realize my potential and my intelligence, or my capacity for how I want to see the world and my ability to achieve those goals. Thank you, it will get better.

[@ChichiMarie]

Thanks for doing this video!! This effects me too. I go off and on meds all the time and now I’m back on and excelling in work and school again. And writing Music again too! ❤️

[@blisterstarr]

This video changed my life. Thank you so so so much!

[@luisav.7516]

Thank you Steve and Cindy for sharing your story.

[@maybelikealittlebit]

Love this. Thank you. I need to start taking my adult adhd seriously. I’ve been diagnosed as a kid and was on dexedrine. I absolutely am struggling with the rest of my mental symptoms due to it and it’s becoming overwhelming. Hopefully I can find the courage and motivation to talk to my doctor.

[@GrizzlyAdamsam]

One of the best Dokumentaries on Late diagnosed adults with ADHD . Deserves many many more Views . Helps in my mind to Take away some of the Stigma of. Using/ needing Medication. Thank you :)

[@lennutrajektoor]

I was diagnosed with ASD at 43. On top of that I discovered and was confirmed by a specialist I have low working memory. In a recent paper people have discovered low working memory has traits of ADHD. That totally explains why I have ADHD related episodes. Although I never have had classical ADHD symptoms. The low working memory in retroactive have explained a lot of my problems despite beign very high functioning. For instance I have bad memory for names. My most peak moments have been when I've been saying something fundamental to the group of people and not being able to reproduce it right after. I Literally have feeling like having a void in the place where the sentence was.

[@MrScottzo]

Thanks for producing this video! So helpful!

[@hannahshelley6511]

This was really interesting and I liked how factual the info was and insightful but also not pushy and honest. I was diagnosed this year at the age of 37 with ADHD plus I am going through I a diagnoses for autism. I have read so many different things and the biggest struggle is I feel people still don’t believe it’s a thing and I hear we all have a bit of it. I loved how you explained it and I really hope things can improve around educate people on it so less people have to suffer in life not knowing then feel shame even once diagnoses because of peoples ignorance. Thanks again 😊

[@lissaajz]

Good video. I recommend Russell Barkley for all adults miss diagnosed with adhd. He seems to be one of the few authors who sees the deep implications in adhd. It can be much more impairing than this. Is a very serious condition.

[@lissaajz]

Some of the comments on the video are shockingly ignorants... very scary!

[@yasmeensaleh9243]

@@lissaajz how are they scary?

[@parelpaardje]

Especially when she said "and bad handwriting" I felt attacked 😂. Like I know it's the minor problem from all the others, however it hit me😂❤️

[@sarahprosecco]

me too - I was like 'how dare you! ...who told you??'

[@costillasbarbieb.966]

I fail my special Written Exam because of my bad hand writing. gosh.

[@andreamarioncrosse1048]

I'm a 56 year old, studying a four year integrated Master's Degree in Osteopathy, currently in my third year. Several months ago I learned about ADHD and it began to dawn on me that I may have it myself. I ticked nearly all of the ADD questions and part of the Hyperactivity questions. I paid for a private ADHD assessment with a psychiatrist and I received a formal diagnosis yesterday. I feel like I've found the missing jigsaw puzzle piece. My lifetime of struggles, failures, chaos, impulsiveness and scattiness finally make sense. I feel both elated and deflated if that makes sense. I'm relieved to find out why and how my brain works the way it does and can now begin to forgive myself, but I also feel a deep sadness that I didn't find out years ago...perhaps I would've made different life choices. Better late then never though. Now I will have access to useful tools and strategies to help me navigate through life and hopefully achieve my graduation next year!

[@Lauramgah]

I just wanna say thank you for this video. As a person with ADHD, I have the combination subtype and every single day is hard for my brain. to manage. I appreciate the awareness.

[@ceab15]

The fact that I am reading the comments while watching the video just proves how I have ADHD

[@TheDavveponken]

No it doesn't

[@RainbowSprnklz]

3:09 i empathize so hard with whatever this emotion is, that ‘oh yeah uh hm oh i think that mightve traumatized me… huh’

[@jackiechild9740]

Oh my gosh! I soo related to Cindy and Steve's experience! I was diagnosed as an adult of 42. So much made sense! 🤯

[@ElroyDesmond]

Watching this video was such an emotional experience. Every bit of what was said about the symptoms and effects resonated with me so much. When I told my sister I think I have ADHD she just said "So what if you have it don't let it affect you." :'(

[@Ihh956]

Thats the same type of response the females in my family would give. Its really hurtful when your family cant be more empathetic.

[@Ihh956]

Or just try harder. 🤦

[@Gobearfoot_]

“Trying to decide how much is personality and how much I want to change.” Ugh. Preach.

[@pikaboubou]

Diagnosed at the age of 6, I'm now 31 years old and I gotta say it's nearly debilitating when I don't take my meds. When I'm off the meds it is just absolute chaos, I feel like I'm walking around in a dream unable to take in literally any information. What would take me 15 minutes to simply get dressed takes over an hour because I'm so distracted, even sitting down in a chair staring off into space will last for so long it's unreal. It's like... being stuck in traffic. You have places you need to be, things you need to do, but you literally just can't go forward with anything. It's awful, and I hate it.

[@sweetlaughter78]

I wasn't diagnosed until I was around 33. Before then, I had switched my major 5 times, and had jumped in and out of several career fields. It was rough. It's good to see others that have stable career fields.

[@mclaclan]

Thank you for making a video about ADHD that is actually good. I have been hyper fixating on it and have watched at least 15 today

[@ascarv]

Thanks for sharing this with us!

[@mattcook7896]

I stumbled upon your channel while watching some random unrelated content about berserker Vikings That the KZbin algorithm suggested, which lead to videos about micro dosing and then to the breakdown of modern psychology through replication studies and then saw this video pop up on my feed. It was interesting to see you have some ties to San Diego. I am a San Diego native living near pacific beach area. I am a 38 year old Chef and my restaurant is within a mile of UCSD which I thought was kind of cool. was recently diagnosed with adhd about 4 months ago. It is a super interesting topic and has so many opinions positive and negative, and has been and is extremely difficult to get medication consistently that I’m sure 99% of people without adhd are aware of. I have had to switch medications multiple times do to shortages of product as well as insurance programs that make you try known lesser affective drugs to work your way to the most effective drugs that were prescribed on day 1. I am still on the step program to be able to try the medication that was prescribed and recommended as the best treatment by my doctor. Just wanted to share and let you know that I like the content you are making and you never know how impactful it could be to someone out there. Oh ….and yeah--I’ll subscribe now

[@spiderliliez]

I'm more of the inattentive subtype. In class or at work, when I listen to someone, I get distracted like I wonder what skincare they use as I look at them, or I wonder about things about that person speaking. Or sometimes, I just watch them talk without even listening, like having a blank mind. Then if they ask me, I would have to ask them to repeat themselves, or repeat the question. I've been like this more and more as I get older, haha.

[@raquelnicolau5998]

A Huge thank you for this amazing video ❤️

[@joylox]

I was diagnosed in 2017, and had no idea that handwriting could be part of it. I'm still learning to manage it as I keep running into issues with medication. My family definitely has ADHD. I tend to work best in a rocking chair, so doing classes from home helps a lot. I definitely agree with medication helping anxiety, and I don't feel safe driving without it, but it's so hard to find anything lactose free, so I've tried two options, one that stopped working, and one that affected my feet in a negative way (temperature changes caused really itchy red bumps, that I didn't have before).

[@Iplaygtagnowboejiden]

I have adhd and some times I just stare at something and not know what’s going on

[@drawingkupfer6967]

This video hits home. Like, both of the experiences they describing (I also blew spit bubbles as a child xD) - the forgetfulness, not remembering names I JUST HEARD. Or getting distracted, almost sucked into something that interests me and staring at it just being mesmerized by the way the animation of a dress looks like. Because it just is so fun to look at. Descicions are hard for me too. I just think over everything and then don’t feel comfortable committing anything until I am 130% sure it’s the right descicion. I also had always problems managing my emotions, anger overall. Back then I used to lash out, today I just cry if I am very frustrated or angry. In therapy I learned to deal with this and I learned how to stay organized with systems that work for me. Medication wasn’t something I wanted... and I don’t think my symptoms are severe so I didn’t need any. I am happy now, I‘m still working on emotions and anxiety and the very slight ocd-like feelings I have. I’m very good, actually. But this video helps me understand myself better. And feel normal. It is also very interesting, thank you.

[@ascetic3312]

A really great video, Alie. Thanks! As someone with ADHD, though, I did find it quite difficult to focus on your explanations of the different subtypes when all those pop-ups kept happening as my brain wanted to see what was going on in the mini-videos. Haha. I had to re-watch that section three or four times.

[@neurotransmissions]

Then our plan worked. Muahahahaha. Just kidding. Thanks for the heads up!

[@ascetic3312]

It's fine. I was laughing at the irony and myself the entire time.

[@dad7493]

I can relate, I am not listening at all.

[@missingwalle9364]

I linked this to my friend who strongly suspects she has ADHD but doesn't know how to ask to be assessed. It describes a lot of the stuff I experienced and felt when I was growing up. I only got diagnosed this year at the age of 27, and i've never felt such calmness and clarity as I have now. It's gonna be a hard journey trying to unlearn the harmful habits and labels I have tacked on to myself as someone who probably had undiagnosed adhd for most of my life but i rlly hope more people realize that adhd isn't a roadblock

[@suigeneris970]

My biggest challenge with ADHD/Inattentive is when my brain is not into engaging a task. It becomes a bigger hurdle to overcome if it is a task that illicit a negative response such as anxiety. Then the over riding impulse is not to engage and to avoid that task all together. Self-motivation is extremely difficult. It is a battle of will-power where I have to force myself to attend to the task. The situation then becomes a constant battle with myself to attend to the task without the support or resources from my brain and body making me irritable, lacking energy, high anxiety and plagued with intrusive thoughts. To see the task through is to wage a constant battle against these negative feelings and impulses until I get the task done. Not pleasant nor easy. Then there’s also the emotion regulation aspect of things where I’ve always been a very sensitive individual. So growing up and all though my adult life it has been a lesson of self-mastery in the area of emotional self-regulation. I will also mention that if you have ADHD be extra careful if you’re going to experiment with drugs. I think the tendency for abuse is very high and the ability to quit drugs is more challenging. So be very careful if you’re going to experiment with drugs as addiction is very likely the problem you’ll have to deal with.

[@deidraroberts9628]

Wow! This was truly an insight sight!

[@heather6504]

I’m a bit jealous of their mild form of ADHD

[@daniangela9990]

Tell me about it. Just being a nursing assistant in a nursing home is almost more than I can handle. Well, good for them.

[@rowk_art]

"It is important that people with ADHD has access to resources and medication they need." Meanwhile my country: "Well, if you want medication you can move abroad, I guess."

[@asddfg9689]

Awesome channel. Thanks for the info.

[@distribuidoraderepuestospr5791]

Loved this video! Thank you

[@TugaInUk]

Im 95% sure i have ADHD, and my sister as just been diagnosed. After researching the condition for 3 months i am still waiting for my referral to go through to be seen. Waiting times right now are around 9 to 12 months... Meanwhile im in a new job after 14 yrs of continuous employment in the same place and i feel so drowned its unreal. Just wish i could afford private really. Thank for the gr8 video

[@baljeetd]

This is incredibly helpful... Thank you!

[@afriendorfoe]

I was diagnosed in 8th grade. My dad had a really hard time with adhd that he ended up in a mental hospital. They tried diagnosing him with bipolar but discovered it was untreated ADHD and had pseudoseizures. I am a poster child for Adhd. Days when I try to live like I don't have it, my adhd is like nope.

[@sammyfruman2580]

Obsessed with this couple and can totally relate!

[@Arthur-fz5dw]

I'm listening to this video, while working on my thesis and daydreaming, being quite inefficient at all of these activities haha. I don't know if this happens to other people, but I was never able to focus on a single task, except for immersive video games.

[@MarionFiedlerMusic]

Thanks for sharing this!

[@dobby240]

Great video, most of these points I have already thought of myself. Won't lie though. I multitasked through the whole video even on Concerta XL. but at least my dose is going up on monday.

[@danielvantsant]

5:30 to 5:45 resonates with me. Learning from the book is so much easier for adhd.

[@katkisaiah40_8]

I was diagnosed with ADHD at 15 and then everything made sense as to why I was having so much trouble with things but also being able to read 10 Magic Tree House books in a day🤷‍♀️

[@richardward2469]

Thank you for clearing up(some) of my 53 years ❤️

[@Meetbol6284]

I'm 15 years old and got diagnosed with adhd when I was 9, since I'm a girl I've displayed other symptoms than boys I know that have adhd. Often when I tell someone that I have adhd they say "but you dont act like it" or things like that and it's honestly really frustrating. I struggle a lot with my adhd but I tend to keep that struggle to myself, I often get panic attacks in class or when I'm in social gatherings because of the pressure I put on myself. Adhd isnt just being all over the place as its portrayed by the media and I think it's important that people learn that.

[@adleremily6545]

i am currently going through my first diagnosis as an adult and god i hope treatment helps!

[@Sunshine_DBT]

I felt the experiences in this so hard. I feel like I had so much potential to do great academic things but I just can't stay focused or motivated, it only lasts a few months and then I crash for months. I was always told I was stupid or wasn't working hard enough but I spend 90% of my time just studying so I can keep up with people who I then socialise with (Im now diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar, and unfortunately BPD - but since I have done so much research into Autism & ADHD especially in women, I am battling to get this removed)

[@maythemysticmuse4071]

wow, just goes to show again how much i don't know that i don't know about myself and my family even though i assumed i figured out what was mostly affecting us intergenerationally. Its interesting because i only looked into signs and symptoms because i noticed my three cousins that are siblings seem to have it (hyperactivity impulsivity and inattention subset) and it was unmanageable for them as a child and it only hit me that it just wasn't as obvious and evident to me because i seem to be high functioning but it explains so much. Will catch and check myself next time i assume i or anyone else is "scattered", "lazy", "unproductive" etc.

[@dorkygirl97]

I resonate with the wife in many ways. As a grad student as well, I also feel insecure and I lack confidence in my abilities. It isn't because I'm not dedicated or hardworking, it's because I can't concentrate. I've managed to get my bachelor's and master's while raising young kids, and I'm now starting my M. Ed. program to become an educator. I really want to go for my PhD, and I hope that I can make that happen one day. Living with a complex neurological condition can feel debilitating at times, but learning how to manage it can help. I will never give up on my education just because of my brain chemistry.

[@GiaielPace]

This couple, if they really happen to have ADHD, their symptoms sound extremely mild, to the point that it just sounds like what most normal people experience when they have distractibility. ADHD have a multiple of symptoms that makes life with it a constant struggle. You must not confuse finding it difficult to focus at times or being hyperactive with ADHD, it's a lot more complicated than that.

[@yasmeensaleh9243]

If they had severe ADHD it would have impaired them way earlier than it did

[@MsZyraMMD]

I was diagnosed with ADHD when I was about 5 I was put on 3 different medications and after I graduated at 18 I stopped taking my meds because I felt as if the medicine was stopping me from gaining control on my own and I felt as if I had a second person controlling my body but I'm 22 now and I've been seeing alot of improvements with ym ADHD I can focus longer now but I still struggle with being very hyper at times my body jitters from being so hyper I have to lay down and breath but other than that I feel alot better then when I was a kid

[@audreyeverett3301]

the part about having anxiety as a result of not being able to cary out tasks normally or on a timely manner literally just made some things click. I've shown signs of ADHD my entire life but was only diagnosed with anxiety and depression as a kid. My psychiatrist is curious wether some of my adhd traits are really just results of anxiety and while that may be true to a certain extent, I've had trouble explaining that its definitely more than that. I would say most of my anxiety stems from feeling like im operating on another wavelength than everyone else and that theres something im missing and especially that i have all of these things I want/need to do and cant seem to accomplish and oh yeah i cannot for the life of me establish a sense of time and everything in the modern age is based around it.

[@RPlaza-ht9gp]

So I have ADHD and a sensory issue. Also a big issue I don't think enough people talk about is how ADHD can have similar or overlapping symptoms with Autism which i have not autism but overlapping symptoms im also the combination subtype. I was diagnosed at 6 years old. Ive noticed that my symptoms are worse based on the amount of stress im under. I enjoyed this video but id be interested in seeing people who were diagnosed in childhood and who have more present symptoms. Neurodivergent people are varied.

[@-AnonymousUser]

This speaks deeply to me!

[@nikkibijl2390]

hi, i have adhd, i am watching this while crocheting a hat and i have to replay the last ten seconds every so often during this video because i lost focus for a second and forgot what you just said while at the same time i am super interested. also, so that's why i have bad handwriting! i loved this video and i'm not even completely through yet, just writing this now so i don't need to keep it in mind and i can continue watching this video with better attention :)

[@plum2584]

14:50 She was definitely fidgeting there! I feel validated by this video in general, glad to know that ADHD won't be so bad in adulthood.

[@vickioxenham7032]

Great video, thank you.