UnlockingADHD

Empowering ADHDers and their Families to Live Life to the Fullest

UnlockingADHD

Empowering ADHDers and their Families to Live Life to the Fullest

  • English

  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Our Mission/Logo
    • Our Team
    • Media coverage
    • Newsletter
      • 2022 - A Year in Review
      • 2022 - issue 3
      • 2021 - A Year in Review
      • 2021 - issue 1
      • 2021 - issue 2
  • Understanding ADHD
    • What is ADHD?
    • Who should I see?
    • Should I get assessed?
    • Diagnosis / Assessments
    • Medication
    • Natural ADHD Remedies
    • Other Treatment Options
    • ADHD Comorbidities
    • Health & Nutrition
    • Personal stories
  • Living with ADHD
    • Youth
      • ADHD in Teens
      • Careers
      • Executive Function
      • Personal Stories
      • School
    • Families
      • ADHD in Children
      • School
      • Parenting Approaches
      • Personal Stories
      • Self care
    • Adults
      • ADHD in Adults
      • ADHD in women
      • Executive Function
      • Personal Stories
      • Workplace Issues
  • Get Equipped
    • Healthcare and Community Services
    • Seminar/Conference
    • Book Reviews
    • Resources
  • Get Involved
    • Volunteer
    • Contribute
    • Event Registration
    • Contact Us
  • Log In
ADHD in Older Adults, ADHD in women, Personal Stories

The Awakening

ADHD in Older Adults, ADHD in women, Personal Stories
November 6, 2022

Unlocking ADHD volunteer Sharon Chin shares her story about the moment when she realized that she had ADHD in her 40s and how she plans to move forward after her diagnosis.

Credit: Photo from Sharon Chin

In 2019, I felt that my life was falling apart. 

My senior dog required daily medical attention and frequent visits to the vet. On top of that, I was struggling to cope with my work and personal commitments. The tipping point came when the Covid-19 pandemic peaked in 2020. I began to realize that my existing coping strategies were no longer working. 

Two hours of daily workout at home could not quell the bottomless energy within me. I was frustrated as there was no outlet to release my energy. Working from home and the closing of gyms affected my mental health. 

Gradually, I realized that my attention span was very short. I had difficulty sitting through hours of zoom and classroom training. Carrying out administrative tasks was a pain. Ironically, I could hyperfocus on solving problems that were complex and dynamic, like solving puzzles, some of which require unconventional or critical thinking.

This epiphany led me to my search for answers. As I was researching on YouTube, I came across Dr Russell Barkley, a renowned ADHD expert. After watching his videos, I realized that I exhibited most of the behaviors and symptoms he described. I decided to seek a diagnosis in mid-2020. 

With the help of Unlocking ADHD, I finally saw a psychiatrist and obtained an official diagnosis in late 2020.

Making Sense of ADHD: Grief and Relief

My diagnosis is both a Grief and a Relief.

It brought about grief as a late diagnosis meant that I had lost many years of my life that could have been better. Had I been diagnosed earlier, I would have struggled less.

Yet it is a relief because I finally understood why I behaved the way I did, which is consistent from my childhood to adult life. I am also relieved when I see the positive traits in myself. The qualities of independence, self-confidence, critical thinking, risk-taking, resourcefulness and being multi-skilled are strengths of ADHD. 

In recent months, I realized I could handle the emergencies for my very sick dog. I have a high stress threshold for life and death situations that require quick decision-making skills. Looking back, I was also the calm one in the family in times of crisis. 

I have come to learn that the ability to stay calm in times of crisis and yet make the right decisions to save lives or situations is one of the ADHD traits. Of all things and ventures, namely various sole-proprietary businesses since age 21, private tutoring, event videography and photography, fitness training, real estate, and being self-employed since 2006, I performed the best in times of emergency and crisis, solving unusual or complex problems, and anything that requires a spontaneous response. 

I believe it is never too late to obtain a diagnosis of ADHD. Though the runway might be short, I now understand myself better. This is who I am. I am no longer trying to fit into the majority and finally see that all that I have accomplished over the past 40 years were achieved by harnessing my ADHD traits!

Thus, I encourage suspected ADHDers to seek diagnosis, regardless of age. The discovery of ADHD can bring about healing and closure!

(Sharon wishes to thank fellow Unlocking ADHD volunteer, Reuben Yue, for helping to edit her story

If you liked this article and found it helpful, please share it with others.

If you are looking for community support, join our ADHD support group or Discord chat!

If you like this article and find it helpful, do consider donating to support us in our mission to empower ADHDers and their families to live life to the fullest.

*DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Should you suspect that you have ADHD, consider seeking the advice of a trained healthcare professional with any questions you may have about your condition.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

  1. Unlocking ADHD’s Webinar Panel: Adulting & Careers
  2. ADHD isn’t a fundamental flaw. It’s something to be harnessed
  3. Embracing my Quirky and Straightforward Side

Unlocking ADHD

Resources on ADHD

  • Understanding ADHD
  • Healthcare and Community Services
  • Support Groups
  • Online Resources
  • Contact Us

Follow us

Copyright © 2023 · Unlocking ADHD Ltd. All rights reserved. Terms | Privacy policy
Unlocking ADHD Ltd does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The material on this web site is provided for educational purposes only.

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Cookie SettingsAccept All
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT
Patrick
Sam
Trinity
Esther
Jesse
Unlocking ADHD Volunteer - Laura
Laura

Andrea is a constantly curious person attracted to all things colourful. On weekends, you will probably find her churning out fun activities to keep her son occupied or engrossed in a new game/book/drama series. She enjoys every moment of volunteering with Unlocking ADHD and hopes to build a more inclusive and empathetic society that embraces neurodiversity.

Li Ming’s educational background is in Business Management and Mass Communications. She have worked in the areas of marketing communications, philanthropy and medical fundraising.

Deborah was diagnosed with ADHD at 18. She is now pursuing a masters degree in psychology with a concentration in biopsychology. In her leisure time, Deborah expends her excess energy through video games and outdoor sports.
Vivien is an O Levels student who likes art. In her free time, she enjoys dancing and watching all kinds of movies. 

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is logo-2-1.png
AMKFSC Community Services has a Psychological Services Unit (PSU) which has a team of clinical and counselling psychologists for children/youth and their parents. Core services include psychoeducational assessments (5 to 16 years old) for ADHD and other learning disabilities. They also offer group and individual psychotherapy. They only provide services to residents in their constituency.

Fees are $70 per one hour session. Psychoeducational testing ranges between $750 to $1,120 depending on the tests required.

Email: [email protected].

Rachelle parents three brilliant ADHD kids and is an experienced magazine editor, a co-director in the family healthcare business and would kill to be a student again

Indhu is a university student majoring in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering. During her free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends and watching TV shows.

Yiannis works in the technology industry and is passionate about helping others maximize their potential. In his free time, he enjoys cycling, yoga, and weightlifting
Chia Ming is a Regular Joe Dad trying to navigate the VAST world of a teenager in the US. 
Emilie is a dog person, but would much rather adopt/own cats of her own one day. During her free time, she enjoys gaming, reading webtoons and showing love to the local stray cats in her neighborhood.
Vanessa is an international relations student, mental health advocate and aspiring change maker.  On top of this, she is also a professional chef and a musician in a rock band.
Charlene is mum to a ADHDer and another with Executive Dysfunction.  She is passionate about supporting youths and parents as a certified Transformative Coach and SPARK Resilience Trainer.

Cheyenne provides HR/people strategy consulting and career coaching. She also volunteers with SPARK to increase the awareness of and reduce the stigma of ADHD.

Tahirah is a mom whose seven out of nine children have special needs with two having ADHD. An advocate for special needs and mental health, she is an avid reader with a love for photography, music and tv

Valerie is a secondary 2 student who loves sports and creative activities like writing, drawing, music. She hopes to contribute to teen awareness through Unlocking ADHD!

Sabrina is a volunteer who enjoys painting, miniature craft and raising pet chickens.
Choon Boon is studying Biological Sciences and is an absolute foodie that will never shy away from trying all types of food
Natalie is a university student majoring in Psychology. While she usually stays home watching Disney shows from the 2010s, she occasionally decides to voyage outdoors in search for good food.
Ishani is an IB student and avid reader. In her free time she enjoys public speaking, coding, and playing the piano
Nidhi is a SPED Apprentice teacher & mother of a pre-schooler. She is interested in the areas of ADHD & Autism. Nidhi loves reading about self empowerment, & mindfulness.
Terrie is a retiree & grandma of 4 grandchildren. She enjoys meditation, gnostic studies, attending Zoom lectures from politics to mushrooms, writing, keeping a mini garden – until the next new passion!
Alisa has just finished her A levels and currently enjoys spending time with her cats
Sanju is a clinical psychology student in the UK and an educator for students with special needs. In their free time they like practicing yoga, singing, and playing the ukulele.
Shu Min  is a university student majoring in Psychology and OBHR. She enjoys baking, gardening and taking care of her senior dog and hamster.
Lukas is a university student majoring in Information Systems. He enjoys watching sports and looking forward to help people with ADHD
Li Yan is an A level student who takes art. She like to listen to music during her free time
Yuan Wu is a career warrior leveraging his strength in crisis management in a global MNC. Friends call him ‘laser’ for his piercing insight about human behaviour
Lilian’s full-time day job involves customer experience service audits. Leisure time is mostly dedicated long walks, and making crochet creations
Jean is a TCM Physician, and a full-time working mother of a pre-schooler. She is an optimist whose goal is to change the perception of Chinese Medicine in Singapore.
Angela is a university undergraduate majoring in Accounting and Accounting Data & Analytics. During her free time, she enjoys watching vlogs, listening to music and is currently learning French as well
Jnanee is a veterinarian. In her free time, she likes to write, dance, pat community cats and explore cafes with her friends. She also tries to convince herself that she keeps fit with occasional runs and yoga workouts
Candice is a freelance Strategy Consultant who works with change makers to positively impact life and society. She enjoys building valuable and genuine relationships, turning ideas into lifelong achievement for people she works with
Shreyashree is a screen media student who loves to volunteer in her free time. She specialises in design and media works and would really like to use her skills to raise awareness about ADHD
Shreya is a university student majoring in biological sciences with a minor in business. She loves to draw, paint, read and watch films.
Shreshtha is a university student majoring in biological sciences and psychology. In her free time, she loves to sketch, play with her dogs, and bake desserts.
Hana is currently studying for her A-Levels. She has an interest in mental health awareness. She takes long naps and bothers her cats in her free time.
Constance is a university student majoring in Sociology and minoring in Global Studies. She spends her free time watching movies and reading.

Mrunmayee (Mayee) is a Counseling Psychologist who previously worked as a school counselor. She is interested in hiking and reading.

Megan is a university student majoring in Creative Writing and Psychology. In her free time, she enjoys writing poetry, making friends with stray cats and taking photos of plants.

Tricia is a university student majoring in Life Sciences and Psychology. An avid fan of scaling rock walls and whatever else she can climb, some say she is more monkey than human!

 

Song Heng is a psychology major studying at an Australian University. He enjoys watching movies and listening to music in his free time
Si Jie is an undergraduate studying Psychology and Economics. She is passionate about all things related to mental health!

Moonlake is the Founder of Unlocking ADHD. A community builder and multi-hyphenate, she runs to fat burn so that she can enjoy food with family and friends. She is still working on strengthening the brakes for her ADHD wiring…

Stephanie is a university student majoring in Psychology and minoring in Japanese Language. She hopes to make the most of her leisure time through writing and reading.