We Asked, You Answered: Here’s How ADDitude Readers Pick Themselves Up
ADDitude readers share their go-to ways to unwind and cope when they make mistakes. From indulging in chocolate to reaching out to friends, these are their favorite tips.
We all feel defeated and short on hope at times — but living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can complicate things, make us fumble and forget, make us fidgety and awkward. That’s why ADDitude asked readers: When you miss an appointment or make an ADHD-related mistake, how do you pick yourself up? And you delivered with these lessons in how to cope with imperfections and how to seek forgiveness.
Indulge in Your Favorite Things
“I take time alone to rejuvenate. I’ll pray, take a walk, or watch a TV show.”
— Marsha Foreman, Alabama
“I get in my car, set the radio to a Christian station, and sing along. It always makes me feel better. God is always there to lift me up.”
— Sheri, California
“I take a warm shower and light a candle to relax. I usually wind up eating chocolate as well.”
— Becky, Ecuador
“I go shopping, smoke a cigarette, or eat. I know, I know — not the best things to do. But tomorrow is another day.”
— Aimee Flores, Texas
Combat Clutter and Take Charge of Your Life
“I organize something — my desk, a countertop. This helps me feel in control again.”
— An ADDitude Reader
Remember Your Successes
“I recall my successes. Too many people dwell only on failures. When others get on my case because I forgot something, I admit, ‘Yes, I did. I’ll try harder next time.’ If they fuss at me, I gently ask them to remember all the times I didn’t forget.”
— An ADDitude Reader
Seek Forgiveness of Others and Yourself
“I tell myself it will be OK! I can always reschedule the appointment. I apologize to my spouse or boss, and hope that he will get over it.”
— Tricia Veale, Wisconsin
“I hit the ‘reset button’ in my mind-and don’t take everything in life so seriously.”
— Helene, New York
Acknowledge Your ADHD
“I remember that I have a disorder and am doing the best I can. I realize that, even with medication, I’m going to struggle at times. Then I take my dogs for a walk or do dance exercises.”
— Denise B., Indiana
“I think about the positives of ADHD: friendliness, energy, creative thinking.”
— Chelsea Schneiter, Florida
Get Support From Friends
“I share my ADHD moment with someone who I know won’t judge me. My friends listen — and help only if I ask them to. It has taken me a long time to find these priceless people.”
— Anonymous, Maryland
