ADHD Support in Grand Junction

As a person with ADHD myself, I know how frustrating it can be to not perform at a regular and consistent pace like everyone around you. I know how it feels when you overthink and ruminate over every little detail of a social interaction. I lived most of my life not knowing that the way I naturally wanted to do things was different from most people. After diagnosis, I found myself both grieving all the times I was the problem, as well as feeling a great deal of hope for my future.

ADHD gets a really bad reputation for being a condition that makes people annoying or lazy. We talk too much. We are too loud. We are too busy or energetic sometimes, while other times we seem lazy and unmotivated. My own diagnosis led me down a rabbit hole of "what can I do about it" questions. Now I hope to share my experiences and what I am learning with others.

I have noticed in all of my ADHD trainings that I prefer to learn from people with ADHD. It helps me feel seen and not labeled. When I did my ADHD Clinical Services Provider training, I came across the work of Stephanie Sparks. Dr. Sparks also has ADHD and I discovered that her perspective felt much more relevant to my experience than things shared by other experts who had shared their research. As you do your own research and therapy, consider seeking out the support of people who understand this experience. If you think you might have ADHD the first thing you should do is get assessed. I utilize a combination approach of ruling out other potential diagnoses first, and then conduct the ASRS (adult self rating scale). With the over diagnosis concerns of ADHD and Autism, it is perfectly fine to seek out the support of a person who works specifically with ADHD or Autism in a clinic, or a psychiatric MD or NP. You want to be thorough about the assessment process. Though I can diagnose, I'm not as informed about other conditions that can have similar symptoms, this is why it is best practice to get assessed by a psychiatrist if you can.

The step after diagnosis that I feel is important and most do not do, is get educated. There are so many great resources for people with ADHD and parents of children with ADHD. If you're not researching your condition, there are a lot of great tools and support you are missing out on.  I would recommend the work of Dr. Russel Barkley, as a start. His work is by far the most extensive and informative.

Third, if you are diagnosed with ADHD, see if medication is right for you. In a world where we tend to over prescribe, I will say that my experience with ADHD medication has been literally life changing. I feel like me, but without many of the negative side effects of ADHD. If you are open to medication support, talk to your doctor or a psychiatrist about medications that could support your symptoms.

Finally, go see a therapist who will understand the struggles specific to you. The good news about ADHD is there are many tools and systems you can implement to start living a better life right now. However, the hardest part is starting. I often say that your ADHD diagnosis is not an excuse, but a responsibility. It is up to you There is a reason that there are so many successful people with ADHD. We can get bursts of energy and creativity that produce great results. We can also blow up our lives in an instant because of our lack of impulse control. If you feel that your ADHD is significantly impairing your life, it is your responsibility to get it managed. If you need to be on meds and they help, great! However, there is a lot you can do to improve your symptoms on your own. Here is my go-to list of things I think every person with ADHD cannot afford to go without:

1. Become a planner. Use a calendar, a day-planner, whatever you need to stay on top of your schedule. ADHD causes people to have poor recall. You will easily forget things because of how your brain works, you need to rely on external tools to keep you a high functioning person.

2. Set alarms, timers, and stopwatches. If you find yourself actively forgetting to do things you said you would do, set an alarm. Set alarms for everything including taking your meds. If you have trouble stopping something engaging like playing a video game, set a timer. If you have trouble doing things because you over estimate how much time it will take, set a stopwatch - this will help you be more realistic about how long something takes next time.

3. Move your body. Our bodies produce all of the good chemicals we need to feel good and stay motivated already. But, we have to move our bodies to keep them active. It is hard to be motivated to move, but you've got to do it. This is as effective for people with ADHD as taking medication in keeping you high functioning.

5. Eat a nutritious diet. Many people with ADHD struggle with food. There are all kinds of food intolerances. There are texture issues and appetite issues. Some overeat due to a lack of impulse control. Many crave extreme flavors like sour candy and intense spice. Others may struggle with flavors and need more bland foods. So, if you struggle with nutrition, you are not alone. However, eating foods low in nutritional value, void of fiber or protein, makes it difficult for your brain to function properly. Our digestive system is closely linked to mental and emotional function. A healthy gut can assist you in improved cognitive function. Research foods that will help you increase brain function, see what appeals to you!

ADHD is highly treatable. The hardest part is starting. When the condition itself often results in a lack of motivation, these tasks can seem overwhelming. Do your best, it's ok if it's not perfect. Consider building a goal plan with a therapist or coach to keep you on track. It is easy to be doubtful and reluctant to try some of these things, and it is possible not all of them will be right for you. Try anyway. Remember that your level of functionality is up to you.

This article was written by Dazholi "DD" Love, LMFT. If you are seeking counseling in the Grand Junction, Western Slope and Mesa County areas, you may contact DD by clicking this link here

DD Love, LMFT

640 Grand Ave,

Grand Junction, CO 81507

(970) 852-0687

Available Monday - Wednesday from 9am-7pm, Fridays from 9am-12pm (in-person and online)