I was diagnosed with ADHD at 39: A new beginning?

Photo by That’s Her Business on Unsplash

It’s official, I was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

I still don’t know what to think about it. I’m still processing the news, even though it wasn’t a surprise to me. I’m not sure if I should talk about it now or wait.

I wouldn’t say that this difference (or disorder) has had a significant impact on my life. After all, I’ve done pretty well in my life so far. I work in one of the big five companies. I did well in school. I got the degree I wanted, and I work in a field I like.

I also think that not being diagnosed as a child actually helped me. I grew up in Tunisia, where this kind of disorder is not well-known (at least not when I was a child, in the 80–90's). I don’t think knowing that I was different would have helped me. In fact, it probably would have held me back.

Should I ignore it and continue to live my life as usual?

I want to continue living my life as usual. I don’t want to live with the idea that I am not “normal”. I think I am still in the denial phase.

Even this post, I am not comfortable sharing it. I’m torn between two emotions. On the one hand, I’m relieved to finally know and understand what’s going on. I feel like I have a better understanding of myself and my situation. And I want…