Discovering ADHD as a Black Woman: How It Improved My Life, Love, Work, and Family
As a black woman, I've always been a high achiever. But I struggled with feeling overwhelmed, disorganized, and forgetful for years. It wasn't until later in life that I discovered I had ADHD - and once I did, everything changed. Not only did it help me understand myself better, but it also improved how I loved, worked, and took care of my family.
ADHD isn't a weakness; it's a neurodivergence. It's a way of processing information and stimuli different from the norm. And when we embrace that difference, we can unlock a whole new level of potential.
For me, discovering ADHD has been a game-changer. It's helped me understand why I struggled with certain things in the past and given me the tools and resources I need to thrive in the present. Here's how it's improved my life, love, work, and family:
Life: With ADHD, I've learned the importance of self-care and routine. I've developed strategies for managing my time, staying organized, and reducing overwhelm. And I've found ways to embrace my unique strengths and quirks rather than trying to conform to someone else's idea of "normal."
Love: With ADHD, I've become a more attentive and empathetic partner. I've learned to listen actively, communicate effectively, and express my feelings healthily. And I've found ways to make time for the things that matter most, like quality time with my spouse and meaningful conversations with loved ones.
Work: With ADHD, I've become a more efficient and productive. I've learned to prioritize tasks, manage distractions, and harness my hyperfocus to get things done. And I've found ways to advocate for myself and communicate my needs to my clients and students to perform at my best.
Family: With ADHD, I've become a more present and engaged parent. I've learned how to be patient, flexible, and creative in my approach to parenting. And I've found ways to communicate with my children in a way that makes sense to them rather than trying to force them to adapt to my way of thinking.
In conclusion, discovering ADHD as a black woman has been a transformative experience. It's helped me understand myself better and improved how I love, work, and care for my family. If you're a black woman who suspects you may have ADHD, I encourage you to seek a diagnosis and explore the many resources and strategies available to help you thrive. Your neurodivergence is not a weakness; it's a strength, and it's time to embrace it.