This story deals with depression. Helpline information is provided at the end of the story. For Men’s Health Week, D’Arcy Waldegrave shares his experiences of living with ADHD.
When were you diagnosed with ADHD and were you surprised at the diagnosis? I was first diagnosed five years ago. I had sailed downhill mentally again with alarming pace and, at the insistence of a good friend, I booked an appointment to address it. I was diagnosed but resisted medication until late last year after another intense depressive episode.
I went back, got assessed again and acquiesced to the wants of the professionals. What are some of your symptoms? The shrinks couldn’t believe that I didn’t know, I’m a cookie cutter case apparently. Go figure.
I’m very impatient. I build multiple outcomes in my head for even the simplest issue. I start many projects, get bored quickly, then walk away.
I’ve made choices without knowing or caring about what they may result in. Reckless. I have excessive energy and enthusiasm.
I’m quite exhausting to be around! Before being diagnosed, how did your symptoms affect your mental health and your day-to-day life? The inability to focus fully on a task required a lot of mental horsepower to overcome. The impatience meant I lost my cool too often and too quickly. How has ADHD impacted your relationships with your friends and family - pre-diagnosis, and now you have a treatment plan? ADHD is part of who I am.
I’m sure it’s impacted my family and fr.