[brenda2691]

Hmmm… definitely helps me reflect on some of my own challenges. I think, for me, the first thing I got out of working with the psychologist that did my assessment was to stop trying to function in the same way as everyone else around me.

Self care is really important and discovering what is enjoyable and helps me feel good took priority whenever possible.

I realized I was constantly comparing myself to others who did not share my brain style. Some people are consistently disciplined and productive – how admirable and unbelievably boring! I do things in bursts and when that happens I am a machine! I know that my best focus time is mid-morning and late evening and I get way more done then. Mid afternoon I am fuzzier so I’ll avoid scheduling things then and go exercise instead.

Even just little things from day-to-day that would add up and frustrate me. For instance, keeping paperwork organized. Over and over again I would sit down and neatly organize everything into a file box, because that’s what people do. Not only could I not maintain it but I’d have trouble finding stuff when I needed it because I could think of several great categories that would have been appropriate for any one thing. I finally clued in that for me, the best personal filing system was a big box with the year written on it, toss everything in it and I would know where to find stuff. A perfectly acceptable and effective solution for me. And sticky notes everywhere. I also love my google calendar app because I alarm everything about 4 times so I don’t miss anything. And my bills are all auto-debit. Basically anything I could think of to automate the mundane so they are off my plate and done – or better yet, delegate to someone who’s better at it in exchange for something I do well.

Making a game out of rearranging stuff can provide much needed stimulation and improve function. But on those days when I’m feeling anxious but I can’t get my butt in gear to do what I’d ‘planned’ on doing, what helps my anxiety is to just do ‘anything’, to start as small as taking out the garbage or wiping a counter or going for a walk. Inevitably one action leads into another one and before I know it my productivity kicks in and I feel much better not dwelling on my initial disappointment.

Not sure if that helps but that is where I started. Simple, easy and small step to build confidence and the progress helped ease some of the anxiety.

Above all, keeping a sense of humor about has really helped.

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[brenda2691]

A friend picked me up for dinner one night after work. I offered to buy a bottle of wine. We were running late so when he pulled into the liquor store I ran in and ran back out as fast as I could only to discover as I opened the car door, that I had been sitting on a big stack of mail he had on the passenger’s seat.

I grab the mail as I’m getting into the car and just place it on my lap as I’m saying “Steve, why didnt you tell me I was sitting on all of your mail?

…..then I hear the unfamiliar and rather cranky voice reply “ You’ve got the wrong car, lady!” I turn to look at some strange old man glaring at me over his glasses.

So in typical fashion, I apologize and burst out laughing. Meanwhile Steve is sitting In his nearly identical car , watching the whole thing go down , doubled over and laughing so hard he can barely breathe!

That was 20 years ago, I have never lived it down and we still both howl when we talk about it.

• This reply was modified 5 years, 9 months ago by brenda2691.

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[brenda2691]

I had a similar experience years ago I. in that I was initially was treated for depression. In reality It was likely a comorbidity. Anti depressants helped me feel better but did nothing for the other symptoms, I just felt less bummed about them!
Once I went through the lengthy process of an ADHD diagnosis , suddenly my life made much more sense. It was such a relief because I was convinced I was just a little on the stupid side despite accomplishments.

It was very confusing because I have always loved life but will oscillate regularly between feeling razor sharp and engaged then totally out to lunch. I think the latter I confuses with depression because , like you said, I’d want to do stuff but for the life of me I can’t get my butt in gear because of the indecisiveness. Do you find that also causes a lot of anxiety as well? It sure can for me if I am not monitoring my thought tendencies.
Thanks for your post, much appreciated.

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[brenda2691]

I haven’t had any experience with CBD oil. After reading this thread, I am wondering if it might help with getting a good nights sleep. i.e. getting my brain to wind down! If so, how does it impact quality of sleep?

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