Suzette fell onto the couch in my office, frazzled. “I can’t get my household under control! I can’t even get myself under control!” she exclaimed. “I feel overwhelmed all the time. My life was so easy before I had kids! I’m not handling motherhood very well and I’m not being a good wife either. Help!”

Once Suzette had let all her words and emotions come out, she took a deep breath and awaited my response, worried that she would never find relief. Suzette is typical of the women who see me for their anxiety, depression and symptoms of ADHD. How could I help her better manage tasks that to her, at the moment, felt totally insurmountable?

Together we worked to analyze Suzette’s life. After a series of ADHD therapy sessions, we identified a balance that worked for her, not against. Soon thereafter, Suzette expressed how much more manageable her life had become. She was even able to get away for a weekend with friends, feeling confident that upon returning home, she would be able to pick up where she left off with her now-functioning schedule.

Suzette talks about feeling a sense of control in her life now, and being able to manage her family’s schedules efficiently. She understands her own emotional state, which makes her feel confident and happy. Her home life is more relaxing. She has recently begun work on calming her thoughts, and continues learning how to be mindful of her needs while simultaneously supporting the needs of her family. She is a great example of a woman who is managing her ADHD and feeling in control of her life.

If you have ADHD symptoms and need someone to talk to, please reach out to me or another trusted healthcare provider. It can get better!

Robin Maier is a licensed clinical social worker who uses a gentle therapeutic approach to guide women in every stage of life toward greater happiness

Help for adult ADHD

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