I thought I had anxiety problems, turns out it’s just ADHD.

For close to a decade I believed I had “severe anxiety”- a constant rushing feeling, never being able to settle, increased heart rate even at rest. Irritability when overwhelmed with “anxiety”. I took Ativan to try and help it- it barely worked. I was confused and I had no idea how to help myself.

Then my 3 year old got flagged at daycare for showing early ADHD symptoms. We’re monitoring him for now with the advice from our doctor, but this led me to realizing that I possibly have ADHD. I “had it as a kid and grew out of it” lol. I told the doctor this, he said to try Vyvanse for a month and see if it helps.

But, I had “anxiety,” so I was worried. Wouldn’t a stimulant make it worse? I took my first pill the next morning anticipating a panic attack.

I can’t believe how funny it was when all of my anxiety disappeared. I laughed out loud. I spent years trying to quiet the noise in my head thinking it was anxiety. The sheer silence I heard after Vyvanse kicked in was surreal. I hadn’t felt so calm in such a long time.

I’m 2 days before my period and I don’t feel out of control. I have managed to do projects I have put off for months in the last 4 days since I’ve started taking it. I don’t feel overwhelmed watching my son, who himself is a handful on a good day.

Sorry if this is pointless lol. I just needed somewhere to express this where maybe someone will understand.