adult adhd

[Scoobydoo1981]

anyone had a late diagnosis (40)?

[Temet_Nosce]

Yes...mid-thirties. On one hand, it's explained so much; on the other, I feel more isolated because I've found that most people still believe ADHD is just hyperactive behavior (and mostly in children).

[Scoobydoo1981 in reply to Temet_Nosce]

snap

[Foldout394]

I'm 48. Diagnosed last May

[Betsy74]

me too - the journey to acceptance is a bumpy one. Anger at how life shouldn’t have been so hard, pride at what I have achieved despite it and now an acceptance of me and learning how I can do things more easily - especially now I don’t give myself such a hard time presuming I just rubbish!

[clearnew in reply to Betsy74]

100% the same route I took. I remember my ADHD starting to cause trouble for me in when I was 11 in grade 6. I flunked grade 7 and then 40 years late I get diagnosed. For 40 years I was told I was stupid, lazy, good for nothing blah blah blah to the point where I completely believed it. Ugh...

[Yoshi_socal]

I was diagnosed at 46. Had no idea it was ADHD—I thought I had a learning disability or auditory processing disorder.

Scoobydoo981, did you receive a recent diagnosis?

[Wasted71years]

Age 71

[clearnew in reply to Wasted71years]

Woah... I honestly for a while thought I was oldest guy that "just found out." How are you feeling about it now? Any better?

[FindingTheAnswers in reply to Wasted71years]

Age 47. Diagnosed by accident. With your name being Wasted71years, I truly understand. I try not to think about the 1st 47 years, which were mostly Hell (truly Hell).

[messylife]

67 for me. still trying to figure stuff out. So many things make sense now. So many things I viewed as character flaws I now see as symptoms. And things worked until they didn't and I had a total breakdown and had to drop out for ~3 years. MDD, GAD, complex trauma...and now ADHD?

[painedout]

II was diagnosed 3 months ago at age 57.

[daybyday365]

I got diagnosed about 24 years old.

[diamondsinthewater]

I was diagnosed in my late 40s after spending many years compensating for what I perceived as my "shortcomings." I am now, in my late 70s, finally able to live with my ADHD without beating myself up for losing my keys, etc. I've always been able to find work that I enjoy--maybe because my "area of hyperfocus" seems to be my work, so I have been lucky. My only advice: Be patient with yourself! 👍

[emiL1234]

Only once, all the other times I was checked, I have no adhd. It's a strange life.

[Quilter470]

Diagnosed at age 74. My PCP won't prescribe stimulants to help me and I can't afford to pay another provider. But at least I am now aware of symptoms and am trying very hard to overcome this awful disorder.

[clearnew in reply to Quilter470]

My ADHD comorbidity is anxiety/panic and I've tried 2 different stimulants now. Both sent my anxiety into the stratosphere. I'm beginning to worry I may not be able to do stimulants as well. I've started looking into supplements etc. Have you talked to you doc about the non-stimulant ADHD meds? I don't know if they'd do you any good but maybe.

[SilverbackG in reply to clearnew]

Prior to being diagnosed with ADHD ( 04/2022) I underwent TMS ( transcranial magnetic stimulation) treatment for MDD and GAD. It went really well for me, knocked my anxiety symptoms out ( by, like 80%) . I have not had a panic attack since. That was in early 2019. I have had bouts of time where some anxiety came back, but was able to work through it, using the tools and behaviors that help. Prior to the TMS, I had the same tools and behaviors; learned in therapy, group classes and from books , but I didn’t use them. Too tired and low band width. Hmmmm

That constant symptom in my life; it’s an ADHD thing!! I sm still angry that no psychiatrist, nor psychologist or group class leader considered that I may have a neuro atypical brain????

[Blimeyohriley]

yes - last year - aged 62. EMDR therapy for my complex ptsd (diagnosed in 2020) eventually unmasked severe ADHD. Have just started meds. Feeling resentful for all the times I’ve asked GP’s for help with my mental health but had to find my own (great but expensive) therapist to get to the bottom of it. It all makes so much sense now looking back on my life, particularly my very difficult childhood.

[clearnew in reply to Blimeyohriley]

I feel your pain with the great, but expensive therapy. I've got a psychologist I'm going to need to stop seeing because I'm running out of money. I wish the government would get a little more involved in these issues and help us out.

[Blimeyohriley in reply to clearnew]

I agree. I’ve almost depleted my savings and yet I paid into the NHS for 30+ years. I’ll soon have to stop for the same reason as I’m still having EMDR therapy and now seeing a psychiatrist for my ADHD until my meds are sorted.

I hope you find meds that work for you. I’ve just started low dose of Strattera (Atomoxetine).

[clearnew]

Yep! Diagnosed almost a year ago at 51.

[ShoesGalore]

yup, late 50’s, just got official diagnosis. Suspected, researched and self- diagnosed for at least 6 months. About to start my medication journey and of there’s a shortage. Pharmacy called and said manufacturer supply problem.

[Adhdhelpme]

Yes, 55, but no one will prescribe stimulants. One said because of well controlled hypertension, then upped my bupropion. Primary doc said he can't do it because of other psychotropics. (Prozac, latuda, bupropion) . Said have to see psychiatrist.

Third basically told me I was too old. Like I don't matter because I'm not young. But suggested I try Strattera.

I think I'm giving up.

[FindingTheAnswers in reply to Adhdhelpme]

Keep trying. A Dr doesn't want to prescribe a stimulant because of high blood pressure? Ok, that I can see, but as you said, high blood pressure can be controlled. But because of the other Rx you're taking? I've taken all of the ones you mentioned. As for the Doctor who told you 'because I'm not young' - F him. He's an idiot. Try seeing a psychiatrist. But you may have to see more than one. A lot of them are idiots. They're highly intelligent and very well educated, but just,,, idiots. Not a nice word to use, but it's the truth. Strattera didn't work for me. Adderall has been a life changer. My life is tremendously better. I'm 62 and all of this being said, I still have 47 years of bad programming in my head. As for all of the Mental Health Pros I saw the 25 years before I was diagnosed, I want my money back. And for the ones who told me something dumb, stupid, hurtful, unprofessional things (some just plain $hitty), I hope that they get to feel and experience what I did. Yes, it still bothers me. Actually I want my 25 years and my money back.

[Adhdhelpme in reply to FindingTheAnswers]

Unfortunately, my $ is not unlimited. I've already spent over $400 trying to get a diagnosis with no luck. If you know any reasonable psychiatrist in WA state, please let me know.

I even told the last one that I've basically been trying to narrow down my diagnosis for over 10 years. Ruled out all causes except adhd. It apparently didn't matter.

Meanwhile, most won't even see new patients. A diagnostic appointment is generally 300-400 with a likely no at the end.

[Fayerweather]

Just pursuing a diagnosis now at 46 years old.

[LaSemeuse]

29, but it took until 32 to actually get medical treatment. I just got put on Concerta, but it doesn't seem to be doing much for me so far.

[Gettingittogether]

Most people on this site! Diagnosed at age 46. Felt late, but not too late. Felt exhilarating, like I was just young enough to improve my life a lot. And I have!!!!!!! These days I can get to places on time! ... I can get to places early! ... And I can do it without stress! Big huge change for me ...

[ImTheDude]

46 for me, now nearly 48....it was a lightbulb of self reflection but at the same time anger over how hard life has been when it may not have had to be. Now I’m still working on meds and life to get balanced. Found that having a horrible work situation brought it out more; defensive, missing deadlines, impatient, told I can’t get promoted because it takes me longer than others to get to the same outcome…all this after 20 years with the same company. Before I felt negatively challenged I was able manage and progress up the ladder but now at a dead stop and considered a bad employee. This kills my pride and sense of principle and integrity. On intermittent FMLA but should I tell them why, would them knowing help understanding or label me even more less competent? Still quietly trying to get by with a sense of shame about it.

[Keeks23]

Yes.. I was diagnosed at 50 [11 yrs ago.] But of course, there was no diagnosing in the 60s-80s and then well....no one thought about adults. Once I connected the dots? It was crystal clear...

[ManualStickShift]

Thank you for asking this! I'm glad to meet others not diagnosed until later in life. I'm also sorry that some folks spent so much time being miserable. Internet hugs, if anyone wants them--and no pressure for the non-huggers.

I figured out my diagnosis at age 58. Yes, age 58!! Not formally tested; I did a few online tests and talked with a longtime counselor. My suspicions arose after I'd spent 10-15 years among other parents of neurodiverse kids. Our son has ADHD + autism (the kind formerly called "Asperger's"). What finally clued me in? I could not otherwise explain my erratic focus at work and my wobbly executive functioning skills both at work and at home.

How did I fly under the radar? Easy: In the 1960s, when I was in elementary school, nobody expected a quiet, dreamy, non-disruptive little girl to have ADD. It sounds awful but it could have been much worse.

I haven't had a traditionally "successful" career in the sense of picking a specialty, getting employed in that field, gaining expertise, and rising up the career ladder. However, I've worked for a number of good causes and connected with interesting people who want to help others. I also was able to step out of the workforce for several years when our child needed more time and attention. And I've maintained a lifelong artistic practice. For all these I'm grateful. Perhaps life could have been better, but it also could have been much, much worse.

[SilverbackG]

Hi,

I was diagnosed last year, April, at age 56. I am now 57, and have been doing weekly therapy for ADHD and taking Adderall. As a female, it is easy to see how I was not diagnosed as a kid. As an adult woman who has been treated by a Psychiatrist since 2010, it is bit harder to understand how my ADHD was missed. As I learn more about the behaviors and skills I have developed to cope and "live" with my condition, it seems I get an "A+" for my Masking abilities. I am really good at only showing personality traits and behaviors that are preferred in a given situation or job. That doesn't mean I won't make huge mistakes and put every relationship and job I have had at risk. So I learned as a child to become a Perfectionist. It sucks to think that I have to figure out how to do be and do "perfect" just to feel normal. Since I have been treated for GAD, MDD, PTSD by the Psychiatrist and 5 different diseases that all "cause chronic pain, have no cure, and are invisible to anyone looking at me" since age 30, I would think SOMEONE might have noticed the ADHD symptoms in my behavior, Sigh. I will stop now.

[Trying2Focus]

Yep, diagnosed at 59 last April. Was taking anti-depressants but that wasn't enough, there was still that "edge", impulsivity, the self-critical, negative thoughts. Always felt different but didn't understand why. Didn't think ADHD was a possibility because of the public focus on hyperactivity, I didn't think that applied to me. After having problems at work with focusing, retaining information, and feeling completely disorganized, I learned about ADHD symptoms through a work colleague who has it. Talked to a counselor for evaluation and she said that I didn't have it because it is not associated with depression. I told her I wasn't trying to collect disorders, I just want help with what I am dealing with. I went on medical leave for mental health issues and talked to a psychiatrist, who determined that I am dealing with it. The meds are helping and it explains a lot of my actions and decisions over the course of my life. I share the feelings of others who have responded that it's frustrating that it took so long for it to be diagnosed. The jobs that I left, broken marriages, parenting mistakes. I know that the meds don't make me a model citizen, but things would have been different even if I knew about it as recent as 5 years ago. I just found this site today. Glad I'm here and reading everyone's story. I'm trying to do something about this and its great to communicate with others who are as well. Thanks.

[Knitting20projects]

Yes, just diagnosed at 50 with combined type after being treated x 20 years by a different psychiatrist for MDD/GAD with only some improvement. Anxiety was my bigger symptom, and I kept saying I felt overwhelmed and trying to outrun a freight train (especially after having kids—-both have ASD & ADHD! Very busy household). I finally started worrying I had early Alzheimer’s. Saw a psychologist for testing, gave many symptoms of what I now know are ADHD, & was told I had inadequately treated MDD. Fast forward 6.5 years to now. Finally saw a different psychiatrist in desperation——1 hour appointment—-diagnosed me right away. Didn’t need any additional tests, interviews with my husband, etc. Apparently it was pretty clear cut! Now I’m trying to educate myself and am reassessing my life. I’ve been relatively successful in work but took a break 3 years ago because I was totally burned out & exhausted between my family’s needs and my job demands (demanding field, high stress). Now it all makes sense. Trying to get myself adequately treated before reentering the job market again.

[Absentmind]

Yes diagnosed around 40 and now 45. Had no clue I had ADHD and thought my therapist was crazy for suggesting it. Basically thought I was just stupid and lazy most of my life and still struggle with this. Always, felt there was something missing in my brain like how do people know to organize clean etc. Feels foreign and still does. Started therapy as I was having trouble managing home life and work life and basically stopped functioning just laying on the couch on weekends. I was hoping I could get help on how I could be a normal mom getting things done such as cooking, cleaning, getting kids places on time etc. Anyways, I was referred to a psychiatrist who diagnosed me with ADHD inattentive type. Meds do help but not a cure. I am still working on acceptance which is really hard. I constantly doubt my diagnosis I think since discovered late in life and my family would not accept it so I have to keep it a secret. Luckily I have an extremely supportive husband to help me through.

[Mystersea]

51 at diagnosis, co-morbid with cPTSD. Just getting my head around it really. That lifelong feeling of being different is explained.

Currently battling to get some further help/meds. It’s hard work in Wales….

My employer has been fantastic so I appreciate that. Occupational health have gone above and beyond what I might have expected.

Still in a hole but I’ve learnt resilience if nothing else in all this time.

Keep on keeping on. It’s a long staircase, one step at a time.

[eosness]

Yeah try 45. I has been a MISERABLE journey. Diagnosed in 2021 and have been on random medications since, none of which have made much of a difference in how I feel or get through every single day. I feel defeated, majorly defeated and right now I am struggling in my job. I don’t seem to have the most sympathetic co-workers and lead. It is really hard to keep hopeful. Terrified of losing my job and then that topic consumes my head space. I am then hyper focused on this and in turn then makes any productivity in me, shut down. It is a vicious cycle. Depression is becoming a huge factor now as well.

[Bangtan in reply to eosness]

That sounds like my life right now. I was doing so well two months ago that I was even in line for a promotion. Now I’m praying to keep my job. I was diagnosed at 40. The diagnosis was a relief because I thought it was just me; I was the only one feeling/acting this way. I am thinking about talking to my doctor about a medical leave because it’s just too much to handle. I wish the best for everyone. Hopefully one day we’ll have positive stories of overcoming all of this.