What Should I Do First After an ADHD Diagnosis?
Mastering ADHD: Embrace Your Superpowers and Thrive
Are you struggling with procrastination, time management, or emotional regulation?
Perhaps you’ve felt like you're constantly trying to "push a triangle peg through a square hole."
If this resonates with you, you’re not alone—and there’s good news.
ADHD doesn’t mean you’re broken; it means your brain works differently, and that difference holds incredible potential. Let’s dive into how you can stop fighting against ADHD and start using it to your advantage!
Understanding ADHD: You're Not Broken
If you have ADHD, chances are you’ve been told to “just try harder” or labeled as lazy. But let’s set the record straight: ADHD isn’t about effort; it’s about how your brain processes the world. Think of it like being left-handed in a right-handed world. Your brain’s unique wiring isn’t a flaw—it’s a feature. When leveraged correctly, it can become your greatest strength.
ADHD brains excel at problem-solving, creativity, and focus—especially when working on something they’re passionate about. Instead of trying to “fix” ADHD, the key is to understand it and create systems that work with your brain, not against it.
Should You Seek Therapy or Medication?
Let’s start with therapy. A therapist can help you navigate emotional struggles, trauma, or even confirm if ADHD is at the root of your challenges. When choosing a therapist, look for someone who specializes in ADHD or has personal experience with it. They’ll be better equipped to understand your unique needs.
Medication, on the other hand, can be a helpful temporary tool for many people. It can improve focus and reduce overwhelming symptoms, but it’s essential to consult a psychiatrist to find the right type and dosage for your needs. That said, medication isn’t a cure-all. For many, it’s part of a broader strategy that includes coaching and habit-building.
Here’s an analogy to explain the roles of each approach:
Medication: Like numbing a tooth before dental work—it helps you function but doesn’t solve the root issue.
Therapy: Like removing the gunk from a cavity—it addresses deeper emotional or psychological struggles.
Coaching: Like filling the tooth—it equips you with strategies and systems to live your best life. (BOOK A FREE 1:1 CALL WITH ME ABOVE!)
Why ADHD Coaching Might Be the Missing Piece
ADHD coaching is a game-changer for many people. As a coach who has worked with over a thousand clients, from CEOs to students, I can tell you that coaching focuses on actionable strategies. It’s not about emotional exploration (like therapy) or temporary fixes (like medication). It’s about creating the systems and habits you need to thrive.
Here’s what makes ADHD coaching unique:
Customized strategies tailored to your specific challenges and goals.
Accountability to keep you on track without overwhelming you.
Focus on executive functioning skills, like time management, prioritization, and organization.
In just a few sessions, coaching can double, triple, or even quadruple your results. The goal is to get you from point A to point B faster, with a clear roadmap designed for your ADHD brain.
Finding the Right Support: Coaches, Counselors, and More
Not all support is created equal, so it’s important to choose wisely. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Accountability Coaches: Great for check-ins but not ideal for providing strategies.
Life Coaches: Can help with general goals but often lack the expertise to address ADHD-specific needs.
ADHD Coaches: Specialists who understand the neurodiverse brain and provide actionable systems for success. Look for someone with proven experience and testimonials.
Group Coaching: A Budget-Friendly Option
If one-on-one coaching feels out of reach, group coaching can be a fantastic alternative. It’s more affordable, offers a sense of community, and allows you to learn from others who share similar struggles. Plus, it’s a great way to build connections with people who truly understand what you’re going through.
In my group coaching programs, I create a gamified, interactive experience designed to keep things fun and engaging. The goal? To help you feel supported, empowered, and ready to tackle your ADHD challenges head-on.
Should You Get Tested for ADHD?
Testing can provide clarity and open doors to medication and other resources. However, you don’t need a formal diagnosis to start benefiting from coaching. If you’re struggling with executive functioning issues like time management or focus, an ADHD coach can help regardless of whether you’ve been officially diagnosed.
Embrace Your ADHD Superpowers
Let’s flip the narrative: ADHD isn’t something you need to "fix." It’s a unique way of thinking that comes with incredible strengths. You’re capable of hyper-focus, creative problem-solving, and achieving mastery in multiple areas. The sooner you embrace these traits, the sooner you’ll unlock your full potential.
Whether you choose therapy, medication, coaching, or all three, the key is finding what works best for you. Be patient with yourself and remember: you’re not alone in this journey.
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step Today
ADHD is not a limitation—it’s a different perspective that can lead to extraordinary achievements when nurtured properly. If you’re ready to explore coaching or simply need guidance, I’m here to help. Visit masteradhdnow.com for free resources or to book a consultation. And don’t forget to like and subscribe for more ADHD tips and strategies. 😊
Here’s my closing question for you: What’s the first small step you can take today to embrace your ADHD and start building systems that work for you?
