ADHD and Bariatric Surgery
ADHD and Bariatric Surgery: A Personal Reflection on Misdiagnosis and Weight Management
Five months ago, I received my ADHD diagnosis, which illuminated many perplexing aspects of my life. Since then, by merely altering the way I function daily, I’ve managed to reduce my body weight by almost 2 stone. This progress is especially significant considering I had begun to regain weight after undergoing bariatric surgery in 2021. Looking back, I can’t help but wonder: how many others might opt for such surgeries when the true root of their challenges could be neurodivergence?
The Path to Diagnosis.
The journey to my diagnosis was anything but straightforward. Over the past 15 years, I’ve sought answers from countless medical professionals. I’ve been labeled a hypochondriac, undergone numerous blood tests, and been prescribed various medications that offered no relief. Surprisingly, ADHD was never suggested as a potential cause for my struggles.
It wasn’t until 2022, when I met Bernie Wright, that things began to make sense. Bernie’s insights into my past, including recognizing an eating disorder in my teenage years and the connection between such disorders and neurodivergence, were eye-opening. She also made me realize that the Bariatric Surgery I underwent in 2021 might have been unnecessary.
Growing up, societal pressures forced me to suppress my ADHD symptoms. I was labeled a “gifted child,” which masked many of my challenges. I never truly engaged with my studies, often neglecting homework and rarely finishing books. A poignant memory from my childhood involves me struggling to read, complaining of stomach pains and blurred letters. This became a family joke, but now I understand that stress and my ADHD were the culprits.
Throughout my life, I’ve experienced numerous burnouts, launched businesses that I couldn’t sustain, and struggled with daily routines. My unique perspectives often set me apart from others, and my home was a testament to my chaotic mind. Yet, I could tell you the exact location of a paperclip I used five years ago.
Medication: A Tool, Not a Cure
Medication has been transformative, but it’s not a miracle cure. It doesn’t magically transform me or enhance my abilities to superhuman levels. Instead, it offers support. While it makes tasks more manageable, the drive to act must come from within.
On my first day of medication, I experienced something profound: silence. The incessant chatter in my mind quieted, allowing me to hear the world around me and be present. Before, my mind would race with random thoughts, even during simple tasks like driving. With medication, that fog lifted, granting me clarity and focus.
The Bigger Picture
Medication has been a significant aid, but it’s just one aspect of managing ADHD. It’s essential to find a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and a supportive community.
In retrospect, my ADHD diagnosis has been a transformative journey. It’s taught me to appreciate my unique brain and its capabilities. While challenges remain, I’m equipped with the tools and support to face them head-on. For anyone grappling with ADHD or other mental health issues, remember you’re not alone. Embrace your journey, seek support, and cherish every victory. Your experience is valid, and your story is invaluable.
