Seeking Help for ADHD and Depression: A Family's Journey

I hope my family will be willing to accompany me to see a doctor for my depression and ADHD?

I have a learning disability in mathematics and have attended resource classes from elementary school through high school.
After four years in the workforce, I have changed jobs ten times, often making mistakes at work (for example: moving too slowly, daydreaming, forgetting things, being easily distracted, etc.).
Upon reflection, I realize that I have always been slower in my actions since childhood, often causing everyone in class to wait for me.
I also find it easy to lose focus during lessons (without even realizing it, needing teachers or classmates to bring me back to reality).
I tend to forget what others teach me by the next day.
Currently, in my administrative job, I struggle to concentrate and often find myself browsing other websites while working.
I frequently forget to bring items (like textbooks or materials needed for presentations) and only realized my carelessness after entering the workforce (often entering data incorrectly or not at all, and when reviewing documents, I can miss missing items even after multiple reviews, only to realize it after being reprimanded).
My interpersonal relationships have always been on the fringes; I have never been very confident in talking to others, leading to situations in class where I want to speak to someone but can't bring myself to do so.
Now, I have finally managed to hold a job for a year, but my high error rate has created a tense atmosphere among colleagues, which makes me very upset, and I don't know what else to do...
I can only resign for now and think about ways to reduce my error rate so that my future work can go more smoothly.
I previously visited the ADHD clinic at Chi Mei Hospital, but they said my current anxiety level was too high for a proper assessment.
I was given medication to take home, but my family immediately insisted that I throw away the anti-anxiety medication.
Later, due to my high error rate, which I found unbearable, I went to see a doctor, who discovered my condition.
My family again insisted that I discard the anti-anxiety medication.
Recently, I have been seeing a doctor on my own, who asked me to undergo ADHD testing and also wrote to my family about it.
However, as soon as I started this process, they became very angry and did not understand.
They believe that I am overthinking things and that my issues stem from a lack of work experience.
Now, I find myself crying more frequently throughout the day.
I have also injured my own feet in the past, and just yesterday, I used a utility knife to poke my hand (without causing injury).
What should I do?

Chen Huahua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/17

Dr. Peng Liyun reply Psychiatry

Hello! Thank you for your hard work! Based on your description, I initially suggest that you help your family fully understand the difficulties you are currently facing and the efforts you have previously made.
It is important for them to recognize that you need professional medical assistance.
You might also consider seeking help from other elders to persuade them, and invite your family to accompany you to the appointment so that the doctor can help clarify any misunderstandings and alleviate their concerns.
However, I am not aware of the specific reasons and details regarding your family's resistance to your treatment, so I cannot determine the feasibility of this suggestion.
I recommend that you discuss your situation in detail with your physician as soon as possible to seek a resolution.
Dr.
Peng Li-yun, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Chia Nan Psychiatric Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/03/17

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time, and I want to acknowledge the difficulties you are facing with ADHD and depression, as well as the impact it has on your family dynamics. Your experiences of feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus, and dealing with anxiety are significant, and it's important to address them in a constructive way.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that both ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and depression are legitimate medical conditions that require appropriate treatment and support. Your history of learning difficulties and the challenges you've faced in the workplace suggest that you may benefit from a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional who specializes in ADHD. This evaluation can help clarify your diagnosis and guide treatment options.

Understanding ADHD and Depression
ADHD is characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Individuals with ADHD often struggle with organization, time management, and maintaining focus, which can lead to difficulties in academic and work settings. Depression, on the other hand, can manifest as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, and feelings of worthlessness. The combination of these two conditions can create a cycle of frustration and emotional distress, making it even harder to cope with daily responsibilities.

Seeking Help
1. Professional Evaluation: It’s essential to follow through with the ADHD testing that your doctor recommended. If your family is resistant to this, try to explain to them that understanding your condition is key to finding effective treatment. You might suggest that they accompany you to a session with your healthcare provider to better understand your situation.

2. Medication Management: If medication is prescribed, it’s important to communicate openly with your family about why it’s necessary. Explain that medications for ADHD and anxiety can help improve your focus and emotional regulation, which may reduce the frequency of mistakes at work and improve your overall well-being.

3. Therapy: In addition to medication, therapy can be incredibly beneficial. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for both ADHD and depression. It can help you develop coping strategies, improve your organizational skills, and address negative thought patterns.

4. Family Support: It’s vital to have a support system. If your family is struggling to understand your condition, consider involving a mental health professional who can educate them about ADHD and depression. Family therapy can also be a space for everyone to express their feelings and work towards understanding each other better.

Coping Strategies
- Routine and Structure: Establishing a daily routine can help manage ADHD symptoms. Use planners, reminders, and checklists to keep track of tasks and appointments. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can also reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve focus. These techniques can also provide a healthy outlet for stress.

- Physical Activity: Regular exercise can significantly improve mood and cognitive function. Aim for activities that you enjoy, whether it’s walking, dancing, or playing a sport.

- Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic way to process your emotions. It can also help you track your mood and identify triggers for anxiety or depressive episodes.

Safety Concerns
Given your mention of self-harm, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety. If you ever feel overwhelmed to the point of wanting to harm yourself, please reach out for immediate help. Contact a mental health professional, a trusted friend, or a crisis hotline. Your safety is the top priority.

Conclusion
Navigating ADHD and depression is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right support and treatment, it is possible to improve your situation. Remember that you are not alone in this journey, and seeking help is a courageous step towards healing. Advocate for yourself, communicate openly with your family, and take proactive steps towards managing your mental health. You deserve support and understanding as you work through these challenges.

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