Hi, welcome
I was incorrectly diagnosed with ADHD in 2003 then 6 years later 2009 correctly diagnosed with bipolar and this year under the autism spectrum. So I did lots of research on ADHD in those 6 years and my bipolar mania was similar to ADHD mania hence the confusion. So we are lived experience advisors, not professional medical persons so please take that into account.
A professor Gray held a lecture about 20 years ago in Sydney explaining to parents of ADHD children, facets of ADHD. He said that in the cave man days men were hunters and protectors. They had to be like canaries, looking around for threats be it animals or other humans wanting to hurt his family. For this reason some humans developed over alertness. Some developed less focus and some walked faster than others. This was seen in modern days as ADHD in that a minority of humans behaviour was outside the boundary of "normal" in those areas and treatment was advised for their benefit to slow them down to fit in with society with less fanfare. Some ADHD patients use physical exercise to lower their energy levels like gardening or running.
In my case one of the main issues aligned with ADHD was lack of focus. At school my mind would wander but it was explained to me that just because I was told I didnt have ADHD didnt mean I didnt have some crossover of it. This often occurs in patients with mental illness. What is certain is my mania was present which resulted in a non stable life early on. 90 jobs, 15 professions, 80+ cars and relationship turmoil. I'm 68yo and since 53yo in 2009 with correct meds my life has indeed stabilised - almost, as good as its likely to get which is a good target to have.
From your post I suggest reading up on the www or books like "ADHD in adults" by Weiss.
The best approach you can have is to rely on a partner if you have one to judge your mood and behaviour. An ex partner of mine would tell I'm manic when I walked fast when doing a tinkering project and I only ever realised that when I'd trip over. I used to this I lacked wisdom but it was actually that I didnt allow myself thinking time when making decisions- impulsivity it was indeed. I was a gift for a used car salesperson lol. Money management was atrocious so 20 years ago relented and got my then partner to do all the management. So making these wise decisions is indeed insight and acting upon them.
Many people with mental illnesses like ADHD have a creative/adventurist/musical side so its not all bad. In fact I embrace it in my poetry, wouldnt be without it.
Adult Adhd - Beyond Blue Forums - 25089
ADHD vs Bipolar: Guide to Distinguishing Lookalike Conditions (additudemag.com)
Repost anytime
TonyWK
