Probably need therapy, maybe meds. I am a mess of issues.
51, very likely ADHD combined, ACOA (adult child of an alcoholic), anxiety and stress like crazy. Add to it, have had digestive issues my entire life (related ?) and currently trying to maintain a low-Fodmap diet. Seriously hitting a brick wall. Been looking for resources, have insurance, but can't really find anything locally - at least no one that seems to cover my issues. Have tried numerous anxiety meds in the past but they've all been difficult to maintain without other issues (my digestive issues getting in the way of my meds). Have never been on any meds ADHD specific.
Not sure where to start. How to find specific help or even what to look for. How do I find a counselor or therapist that covers my broad range of issues. I know there's a lot of research being done on the gut-brain connection. I'm probably a classic case.
Where to start?
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Muddpuddle
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A psychiatrist that I had years ago, specialized in pharmaceuticals meaning he knew how to balance out my meds. During the time I saw him, when I had a melt down he helped rebalance my meds with a bit of tweaking. I am not familiar with your
it sounds like a lot of ADHD type things going on here - stress, anxiety, alcoholism (although its a parent, it can be that they have an element of ADHD too), ADHD is strongly genetic. The digestive issues, could be related, if they are related to stress or something like indigestion/reflux, these can cause constant discomfort and add to anxiety - especially if you have a lightning fast ADHD brain that can overreact to the stimulus of pain. I'd suggest to find a good therapist to see if they can look at your potential ADHD symptoms. Sounds like you are in the US, so will let some of the US citizens on here suggest where to find a good therapist.
Yep, actually, it is my understanding that ADHD is 100% genetic, and that no amount of drug use, pop tarts, bad habits, etc can cause the ADHD brain. We r born with it.
I love ACOA. You sound from that terminology like maybe you already use the program. If you don't I would try it 5-6 times. I'll let others weigh in on the other issues. I have ADHD and qualify for several 12 step programs. I have come to accept I have to address all of these issues. I am still blessed and I bet so are you. It is easy to forget. Keep looking for answers, get support, it will get better. Keep on swimming.
Hey muddpuddle, try not to get hung up on labels. It can feel overwhelming and make ya feel like a “ case” lol. I am a social worker/ addiction counselor. I also have adhd- the hyper kind. Im my professional and personal experience, i have never met nor worked with anyone with adhd untreated who DIDNT have anxiety and stress. So really anxiety and stress are symptoms of ADHD and not necessarily a diagnosis on own merit. I think meds and after you feel good on the meds and can focus n comprehend, then counseling can also be helpful. Untreated ADHD can be so incredibly destructive. I would start with getting an ADHD diagnosis, stabilizing on a stimulant, n then find someone knowledgeable to talk to. I had severe anxiety and took meds for bout 2 yrs , then did 9 months of therapy. Therapy wasnt focussed on anxiety, nor ADHD, nor PTSD, my therapist just gave me skills to practice to make my day to day interactions with people more positive experiences, from there, things just got better. Life was better. Hope that helps. I can identify with the hole you prob feel like your in. It can get better, promise!
Oh, forgot to tell ya something- the tummy issues- lots of people have GI issues as result of anxiety. That is actually the most common way that anxiety will physically show up. Treat the ADHD and it is likely that the anxiety n GI issues will also get treated. 👌
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I do not have ADHD but my partner might
Where to find professional help
Getting an actual diagnosis
Going to the doctor to finally discuss adhd.
Unsure whether I have ADHD and still getting to know more about it 
