ADHD - An Intellectual Adventure - Jim Livingstone

Perpetual discovery and expansion

Author

Jim Livingstone
September 21, 2024


Hello, and Welcome

G’day,

I struggled with undiagnosed ADHD for forty-six years, feeling like I didn't fit in anywhere.

Since my ADHD diagnosis, I have spent the past twenty-six years reading, researching and testing every aspect of adult ADHD with the desire to become the very best version of myself.

Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way….

ADHD - An Intellectual Adventure

Your ADHD brain is wired differently and needs regular stimulation to produce dopamine. You become an intellectual adventurer, an adventurer of the mind, pursuing exploration, discovery, and understanding primarily through intellectual, academic, or creative endeavours.

An intellectual adventurer's journey is one of perpetual discovery and expansion of the mind. We are driven by a passion for understanding the world and contributing to the sum of human knowledge and creativity, often leaving a lasting impact on our field of endeavour.

An adventurer is often characterised by a blend of personality traits, behaviour patterns, and life perspectives. While the concept of an adventurer can vary widely depending on context and individual differences, here are some common characteristics:

Intellectual Curiosity: A thirst for knowledge and a desire to understand complex concepts, theories, and philosophies.

 

Creativity: The ability to think outside the box, innovate, and conceptualise new ideas or artistic expressions.

 

Critical Thinking: An analytical mindset that questions established norms and seeks to form independent opinions based on evidence and logic.

 

Open-mindedness: A willingness to consider and engage with diverse viewpoints and to change one's mind in the face of new evidence or arguments.

 

Insatiable Desire for Learning: A perpetual quest for personal growth and self-improvement through study and learning.

 

Problem-Solving Skills: Aptitude for confronting intellectual challenges and puzzles and crafting thoughtful solutions.

 

Reflective Thought: Engaging in deep, contemplative thinking about life's big questions and one's own experiences.

 

Passion for Reading: An enjoyment of literature, scholarly articles, and a wide range of written material that fuels knowledge.

 

Communication Skills: The ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively through both written and spoken word.

 

Visionary Thinking: The capacity to imagine future possibilities, foresee upcoming trends, and conceptualise advancements in various fields.

 

Adaptability: Comfort with shifting paradigms and the ability to adjust one's thinking in response to new information.

 

Persistence: The determination to pursue knowledge and understanding, even when it requires significant effort and time.

 

Skepticism: A healthy dose of doubt concerning claims and assertions until credible evidence is presented.

 

Discipline: The self-control necessary to devote significant time and energy to intellectual pursuits.

 

Strategic Planning: The ability to design and follow through on long-term plans for research, learning, or creative projects of interest.

 

Humility: Recognition of the limitations of one's knowledge and the willingness to learn from others.

 

Intuition: An innate sense of the direction in which ideas might fruitfully develop or the connections between seemingly disparate concepts.

 

 

It's important to note that not all adventurers will exhibit all these traits, and some may demonstrate other qualities not listed here. Adventure can take many forms, from physical explorations to intellectual or artistic pursuits, and as such, the characteristics of an adventurer can be pretty broad and varied.

ADHD makes life an adventure.

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”.

Helen Keller

/

 CHAPTER 1

 

“ADHD minds have challenged
the status quo and reshaped the world.”

 

1

 

NAVIGATING
THE DIAGNOSIS PROCESS

» The Benefits of an ADHD Diagnosis.

» Exploring Diagnosis Options.

» Medical and Self-diagnosis Tests.

» Challenging the Neurotypical System.

If you haven’t been diagnosed, let’s start here. You can skip this section and go to Challenging the Neurotypical System if you have.

Getting an ADHD diagnosis can often feel lengthy and overwhelming, and I am here to help and guide you on your journey.

It is the first step toward understanding your unique brain and how to work with it to develop strategies for dealing with ADHD challenges.

I have been through this process numerous times over the past forty years and wasn’t accurately diagnosed with ADHD until I was forty-six.

 

I destroyed everything in my life that was important to me. No matter what I tried to change, I didn’t know what the problem was or how to change it.

 

I lost twenty-five years of my life trying to understand my behaviour, my ‘different’ wiring and how I saw the world.

 

My life could have been so different if I had been diagnosed and treated earlier. My hope is that by raising ADHD awareness, others won’t have to go through unnecessary pain and anxiety caused by late diagnosis.

 

*THE BENEFITS OF ADHD DIAGNOSIS

Obtaining an accurate ADHD diagnosis as an adult is essential for multiple reasons.

• It validates your experiences and helps you understand why you struggled with certain aspects of life.

• A diagnosis opens the door to appropriate treatment options, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.

• It provides a framework for self-acceptance and embracing strategies to lead a more fulfilling life.

Navigating the ADHD diagnosis process as an adult can be a positive and transformative journey toward self-awareness, understanding, and empowerment.

*EXPLORING DIAGNOSIS OPTIONS

Let’s look at the two different diagnosis paths.

• Consult with healthcare professionals.

• Take a self-test.

Depending on where you live and your circumstances, getting a diagnosis from a qualified ADHD specialist can be a challenge. Not all healthcare providers are equally familiar with ADHD, and timeframes can vary from months to years.

While healthcare professionals provide expertise, comprehensive evaluations, and accurate diagnoses, self-tests can be initial screening tools, promoting self-awareness and facilitating further discussions with professionals.

Self-tests should only be the first step, and a professional evaluation is required for a conclusive diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan.

*GETTING A MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS

Exact details will vary among countries, but a formal diagnosis involves a lot of hoops, partly because the medications are considered controlled substances.

The diagnosis process may involve a variety of assessments, including in-person, written, and online components, and could take several weeks to resolve.

Here is an example of someone’s recent experience in the US (with their permission)

“My diagnosis process, which I understand was typical for the US, involved two separate hourlong consultations with two different psychiatrists; a 25-page self-assessment; formal assessment questionnaires filled out by two friends/family members; and the online QB test, which is a diagnostic tool that required an access code and the use of a computer with sufficiently advanced broadband and camera capabilities as it assesses facial expressions during an exercise.

Completing all these stages in the correct order took six weeks. Moreover, the cost of this diagnostic process (without insurance) was $600 USD; with good insurance (well, “good” for the US) my cost was still around $200.

The process may be different in Australia and the UK. But it was certainly much more time-consuming, slow, and expensive than I had anticipated, and I was additionally tasked with finding the psychiatrist myself because my primary care provider did not provide me with a referral”.

 

General practitioners and primary care physicians often serve as the initial point of contact for individuals seeking support for ADHD. They can provide referrals to specialists.

Start by scheduling an appointment with your local doctor, a psychiatrist, a psychologist, or an ADHD specialist. Share your concerns, symptoms, and personal history to establish an accurate diagnosis.

To support your ADHD evaluation, it may be beneficial to gather evidence from various sources. If possible, obtain school or work records, past evaluations, report cards, and feedback from teachers or family members.

This documentation can provide additional insight into your struggles and enhance the accuracy of the diagnosis.

CHECK THEIR CREDENTIALS!

When considering a healthcare provider, research their credentials, experience, and ADHD specialisation. Consider their approach to treatment and whether it aligns with your personal preferences and values.

Schedule an initial consultation with potential healthcare providers to discuss their approach, treatment philosophy, and the services they offer.

Use this opportunity to ask questions, share your concerns, and gauge their understanding and empathy for your unique needs.

Healthcare professionals will use standardised diagnostic criteria, such as those outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This helps ensure accurate and reliable diagnoses.

Develop open and honest communications. Seek clarification on any queries or concerns you may have. Actively participate in the evaluation and treatment planning to meet your unique needs.

They may recommend medication based on your diagnosis as part of your treatment plan. Stimulant and non-stimulant medications are commonly prescribed to manage ADHD symptoms.

A professional evaluation will thoroughly understand your symptoms and guide you toward an appropriate treatment plan.

*SELF-TESTING FOR ADHD

Self-testing resources can provide initial insights and guide you toward further evaluation.

Self-tests, which consist of standardised questionnaires and checklists, provide a more accessible and convenient option for individuals who suspect they have ADHD. These tests are widely available online or through healthcare providers, and you can complete them in the privacy of your home.

When exploring the possibility of having ADHD, self-testing resources can be a helpful starting point for self-reflection and awareness. Online self-assessment tools, ASRS, and books/self-help resources provide valuable information and insights.

Numerous websites provide online self-assessment tools designed to gauge symptoms associated with ADHD. These tests are typically questionnaires or checklists that require individuals to rate the frequency and intensity of certain behaviours or experiences.

Websites like ADDitude, PsychCentral, and CHADD offer reliable self-assessment tools that provide preliminary indications of ADHD. (Resources link)

PROS:

· Accessibility: You can access online self-assessment tests from the comfort of your home.

· Anonymity: These resources allow you to assess your symptoms privately and without judgment.

· Quick Results: Online tests often provide immediate results or interpretations to facilitate initial understanding.

· Evidence-based: The ASRS has been extensively studied and validated, making it a reliable tool for self-assessment.

· Professional Recognition: Many healthcare professionals utilise the ASRS as part of the diagnostic process, making familiarity beneficial.

· Books and resources often provide comprehensive descriptions of ADHD symptoms and personal anecdotes that aid self-reflection.

· Self-help resources offer coping mechanisms, organisational techniques, and lifestyle adjustments.

CONS

· Reliability: Self-assessment tools may not have the same validity as a professional evaluation and should not substitute for an official diagnosis.

· Subjectivity: Self-assessment tools rely on self-perception, which may be influenced by personal biases or limited awareness.

· Interpretation Challenges: Understanding the significance of the score may require guidance from a healthcare professional.

· Limited Scope: The ASRS focuses solely on ADHD symptoms and does not account for potential coexisting conditions.

Remember, while self-tests can provide initial indications, an official diagnosis by a qualified healthcare professional is crucial.

Your self-test can be a starting point for initiating conversations with healthcare professionals and seeking a formal diagnosis if necessary.

TAKE YOUR ADHD SELF-TEST.

If you think you might have ADHD, complete the free ADHD tests below and share the results with your healthcare professional.

ADHD Self-Test for Women – 9 Questions – ADDitude Mag

Dr Daniel Amen’s Adult ADHD Symptom Checklist Online version with scoring. (4-minutes) Includes Dr Amen’s proposed 7 sub-types of ADHD. After determining your type, you will receive a comprehensive report, including an ADD Action Plan with natural and targeted treatments that you can start from home.

*CHALLENGING THE NEUROTYPICAL SYSTEM

When diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), you will often find yourself at odds with a world built for neurotypical minds.

Instead of viewing ADHD as a disorder that needs fixing, embracing neurodiversity and challenging the neurotypical system can empower you to celebrate your unique strengths and advocate for acceptance and change.

Challenging the neurotypical system when diagnosed with ADHD is a powerful stance toward embracing your neurodiversity, celebrating unique strengths, and advocating for change.

The neurotypical system refers to social structures, norms, and expectations designed predominantly to accommodate individuals with typical neurodevelopment.

It often emphasises linear thinking, sustained focus, conformity, and adherence to established routines. This system poses challenges for individuals with ADHD who thrive in different ways.

Neurodiversity is a concept that recognises and celebrates the natural variations in human brain functioning, including ADHD.

Embracing neurodiversity encourages acceptance, appreciation, and understanding of different cognitive styles.

Advocate for flexibility and adaptability that support your unique needs—promoting flexible work and educational environments that allow for breaks, varied schedules, and incorporating different learning styles.

Challenging the neurotypical system can be crucial in shaping a more inclusive society that values diverse cognitive styles.

Through advocacy, education, and fostering an inclusive mindset, we can create a society that values and supports individuals with ADHD, ultimately benefiting us all by promoting diversity and innovation. 

SUMMARY

 

· Finding the right healthcare providers and support system is a key component of managing your ADHD effectively.

· By seeking out ADHD specialists, building a multi-disciplinary care team, and involving supportive individuals in your life, you can establish a solid foundation for addressing your ADHD's challenges.

· Remember, each person's journey is unique, and finding the right providers and support may take time.

· Be patient, persistent, and proactive in creating the care and support network that best suits your needs.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this book is for informational purposes only and should not substitute professional medical advice. It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate ADHD diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

 

SUGGESTED ACTIONS

 

 Send time reflecting on how ADHD has impacted your life, relationships, education, and career.

 

 Use this book to journal and document specific instances that cover your difficulties and challenges.

 

 Take a Self-Test

 

 Book an Appointment with an ADHD Professional.

 

 Read ADHD ADULTS – The Ultimate Success Guide https://www.amazon.com//dp/B0BHKQV96M

 

 Seek out ADHD support groups, both in person and online, where you can share experiences, learn from others, and access valuable resources.

LIST THREE POSSIBLE ACTIONS

1.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

2.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

3.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

JOURNAL NOTES.

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“One of the things I learned the hard way was that it doesn’t pay to get discouraged. Keeping busy and making optimism a way of life can restore your faith in yourself.”–

Lucille Ball

Download your complimentary PDF of the first couple of chapters.

Or, if you want to buy a copy. 

Expect the Best,

If you’ve got a second, I would love to hear your thoughts and comments. [email protected]  I reply to every email.

This site is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content in this newsletter is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment. Please seek professional help if you believe you may have Mental Health Issues.

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