Hey there, fellow neurodivergent millennials! Today, I want to delve into a topic that often goes unspoken but impacts many of us in profound ways – the rollercoaster of hormonal changes we experience throughout our monthly cycle. As someone navigating through life with ADHD, these fluctuations can sometimes feel like an added challenge, especially during the final part of the cycle when our hormone levels drop, leaving us feeling a bit down.
One aspect that I personally struggle with is the significant impact these hormonal shifts have on my mood. It’s like riding a wave – one moment I’m feeling energetic and optimistic, and the next, I’m battling feelings of sadness or lethargy. When ADHD is in the mix, these emotional ups and downs can feel even more pronounced, making it a real struggle to stay afloat.
One strategy that has helped me cope during these challenging times is to take things one day at a time. By focusing on the present moment and reminding myself that these feelings are temporary, I find it easier to navigate through the rough patches. I constantly reassure myself that tomorrow is a new day, filled with new possibilities, and that these overwhelming emotions won’t last forever.
However, one recurring issue that I often face during these low points is emotional eating. When I’m feeling upset or down, I tend to turn to food for comfort, which can lead to binge-eating episodes. The guilt and regret that follow only add to the emotional turmoil, creating a vicious cycle that can be hard to break.
Recently, I had a night where I indulged in a massive food splurge, leaving me feeling physically uncomfortable and surrounded by a messy apartment the next morning. Instead of letting the guilt consume me and ruin my entire weekend, I decided to take charge. I’m choosing to focus on cleaning up my space, both physically and mentally, as a way to move past my slip-up and start fresh.
So today, as I tidy up my apartment and rid myself of the remnants of my overindulgence, I’m reminded of the importance of self-compassion and resilience. It’s okay to have moments of weakness or hiccups along the way. What truly matters is how we respond to them, how we learn and grow from our experiences, and how we choose to move forward.
Remember, fellow millennials, we’re all on this journey together, navigating the complexities of our minds and bodies with grace and understanding. Let’s support each other, uplift one another, and embrace the beauty of our imperfections. Here’s to embracing our uniqueness, overcoming our struggles, and thriving in every season of our monthly cycle – hormones, ADHD, and all.