In Two Minds
The quest for clarity on ADHD in midlife
I know I know, everyone seems to be talking about ADHD or saying they have been recently diagnosed with ADHD, but this is serious stuff, not to be taken lightly and should be spoken about more openly. Particularly, the subject of undiagnosed ADHD in midlife women, as it can feel like a labyrinth of uncertainties, especially for women teetering on the fence about seeking a formal diagnosis.
Recently I have been wondering whether to a pursue a diagnosis or not, but as a 49’er, for me it comes laden with questions…
What if I do have ADHD? What if I don’t? How will it change things? Will it help me in the long term? Why do I need a professional diagnosis? These quandaries echo the experience of many who grapple with the choice of seeking clarity amidst complexity of their symptoms. I know this from experience, I have three close friends who are in this situation, and we are all wondering the exact same thing. Should we go and see our GP about the fact we have self diagnosed ADHD?
I am traversing this terrain myself and I understand the many considerations that swirl around this decision. The availability of medication adds an extra layer of frustration for those whose treatment hangs precariously, due to stock unavailability. What is the world coming to? The unpredictability only compounds such challenges and I’m sure, well I know this is the case, after speaking to friends, about the lack of meds which leaves them in a state of disarray.
For the past few months I’ve been on a journey accompanied by a remarkable trainee ADHD coach, exploring the facets of ADHD and contemplating the significance of a formal diagnosis. My coach and I have such enlightening discussions, some conversation blow my mind, almost like of out of body experience. Mainly due to reflecting over my childhood experiences and identifying why I have such characteristics and personality traits. There have been so many ‘ah ha” moments in during session, I absolutely love my session with my coach. And I would highly recommend considering talking to an ADHD expert if you’re intrigued or ever in doubt about whether or not you have ADHD. I wonder, have you ever thought you might have ADHD? If so, do you find yourself wavering in the balance, uncertain about taking the diagnostic plunge? Maybe like me, you might have spent the last year pondering over whether you may have ADHD, but are nervous or feel shame about such thoughts?
In my personal pursuit on this topic, I have discovered valuable resources - books, podcasts, articles - which have become an essential part of my quest for understanding and growth. However, the ever-changing news cycles and media hype about ADHD can be pretty tiresome, all seem to drown out the voices that truly resonate with our experiences.
So tell me, what books have sparked your curiosity or offered solace? Which podcasts resonated with your ADHD journey? Have you stumbled upon articles that brought clarity or comfort? I’d love for us to dive into this world of information and exchange insights while sidestepping the distracting noise sensationalised media narratives.
Here are just some of my recent recommendations that might be of interest to you…
Book: Scattered Minds by Gabor Mate
Magazine: ADDitude
Podcast: ADHD for Smart Ass Women by Tracy Otsuka
Until the next time
Take care & stay safe xx
Hi Tanya. My current favorite Substack read is The Long Climb. Kari Bently-Quinn came to substack specifically to write about her late diagnosis (early 40s). She layers her complex personal experiences pre- and post-diagnosis with researched factoids about ADHD. She's an excellent writer, which is either a bonus or a starting point for me. ;)
https://www.substack.com/@thelongclimb
Hi Tanya, completely relate to your journey. I've just had a diagnosis and started medication which is still a lot to process.
I'd recommend a couple of Substacks on the topic - ADHD & Me and ADHD Made Me Do It. x