I was rummaging through some old boxes (you know, the ones we all have, filled with things we can't quite let go of) and stumbled across my old school reports. Talk about a blast from the past!
As I flipped through the pages, I couldn't help but cringe. "Sarah is incredibly bright but must get more organised." "She would be doing brilliantly if only she did her homework." Ouch! It was like reading a script for my life, even back then.
All of those emotions came flooding back, it was like being 13 all over again, and then it hit me. This is what it was like growing up with undiagnosed ADHD. All those missed cues, those unmet expectations, those times I felt like I was from another planet. It all made so much sense. I have so many memories throughout my life tinged with shame and guilt from not being good enough, but the strange thing is that it doesn't matter how long ago they are from I still feel the same deep level of emotion each and every time I think about them.
If you suspect you have ADHD and you find it hard to manage emotional responses, or find that you feel pain at perceived criticism, rejection or failure you could also have Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). RSD affects our perception and increases our emotional responses. To be honest, it is no wonder RSD is associated with ADHD when you consider that by the time a child with ADHD reaches 12 they will have received 20,000 more negative feedback interactions than a neurotypical peer!
But here's the thing: I'm not alone. And neither are you. Turns out, there are loads of us amazing women who were just wired a little differently. We're the queens of hyperfocus, the empaths, the creative thinkers. We're the ones who see the world in a kaleidoscope of possibilities.
Discovering that you have ADHD and any one of the myriad of associated 'disorders' can be both a blessing and a curse. I found relief in the realisation that it wasn't because I wasn't trying hard enough or I just didn't get it (think back to the school report!), but I also grieved the child I could have been and felt anger about all the judgements I had endured and the pain of not being understood.
Ready to ditch the old script and write a new one?
If you understand this and relate find yourself a counsellor who specialises in neurodivergency to help you embrace your inner superhero. They will help you navigate the ups and downs, discover your strengths, and create a life that truly shines. ✨
ADHD Fact Attack:
- Hyperactivity isn't always about bouncing off the walls. It can be a whirlwind of thoughts and ideas in our amazing brains. 🧠
- Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) can make us feel things extra deeply. But remember, you are worthy of love and belonging, just as you are. 💖
- Accepting your neurodiversity can be a journey of self-discovery. It's like unlocking a hidden superpower you never knew you had. 💪
- Neurodiversity is not something to be fixed, but an opportunity to learn, make accommodations and find your inner Super Hero!
So, let's raise a glass (or a fidget toy) to all the amazing ADHD women out there. We're not just different, we're extraordinary. 🥂
P.S. Don't forget to share this with your fellow superheroes! 🦸♀️
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