Living More Healthily with ADHD: Embracing Change and Finding Balance
It's only just sinking in how tough it can be to live a healthier life. Not drinking alcohol, being hyper-aware of my feelings, and managing my days—it’s a lot.
Holidays are a Whole Different Experience Now
In the past, holidays meant drinking every afternoon or evening, whether at the pub or at home. That routine gave me structure. Now, without alcohol, I notice things I didn’t before, like how emotionally challenging holidays can be.
Facing My Feelings
I’m now super aware of what affects my mood: too much phone time, not enough activity, etc. Some days, I miss when life felt easier. Looking back, I realise I was self-medicating with alcohol. I wouldn’t call myself an alcoholic, but I could see myself heading down that path. Giving up alcohol for the past two and a half years has been amazing, though. It has made me more in touch with my emotions, even when they feel raw.
ADHD Diagnosis: A Game-Changer
Since my ADHD diagnosis, so much makes sense, my impulsiveness, occasional recklessness, and even my sense of humour and quick wit! It’s challenging to care for my ADHD brain, but I’m learning.
Small Changes, Big Impacts
~Cutting out sugar has been huge. I am more aware of feeling fuller sooner, my IBS is better, and my sleep has improved, although it still needs work.
~I’ve made daily goals to create structure:
-Getting outside and exercising
-journaling, including positive affirmations and gratitudes
-Meditating daily.
-Drinking more water (I’m working on spreading it out during the day!).
-Eating regular meals (still figuring out ADHD-friendly lunches—recommendations welcome!)
Staying Committed
Taking care of myself and my ADHD brain is a learning curve. But I’m determined to stick with it, adjust as I go, and make it feel easier over time.
If you're trying to live healthier with ADHD and want support creating habits that work for your brain, let's chat. Book a complimentary Discovery Call today:
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ABOUT ME
Hi, I'm Petra Earnshaw, an adoptee with ADHD. I am also an ICF ACC Credentialed Advanced-Certified ADHD Life Coach. I share my coaching and late ADHD diagnosis, and share some tips along the way.
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