If you’ve ever felt like something deeper is going on beneath your anxiety, Erin’s story might sound familiar.
Before you read her story below or watch the video above, please note this content includes mention of depression, agoraphobia, and intense anxiety. If those topics are sensitive for you, please take care of yourself as you read.
One of the most powerful things about Your Vibe, Your Story is that every submission is real. These aren’t filtered. They’re not polished essays. They’re the actual words of people who are just trying to survive, and maybe even heal. Erin is one of them. And her story shook me in the best way.
When Anxiety Isn’t Just Anxiety
Erin reached out to share that in 2022, after a stretch of traumatic life events, her mental health spiraled into a really dark place. She was diagnosed with major depressive disorder, severe generalized anxiety disorder, and borderline personality disorder. Eventually, she couldn’t even leave her home. She was later diagnosed with agoraphobia.
And while therapy and medication helped her make progress, that heavy, unshakable anxiety just wouldn’t budge. No matter what she tried, something still felt “off.”
So she asked her doctor a question more of us should be asking: “Could it be ADHD?”
Untreated ADHD in Adults: It’s More Common Than You Think
Erin was diagnosed with ADHD at 36 years old. The moment she began ADHD treatment with her doctor’s guidance, something shifted. She told me that starting Vyvanse didn’t just help her focus, it helped calm the constant anxiety that had been overwhelming her life for years.
That resonated with me. A lot.
There’s this weird thing that happens when you grow up with undiagnosed ADHD. You learn to live in survival mode without realizing it. The anxiety, the panic, the self-blame… they pile up until it feels like you’re drowning in your own brain.
But for so many adults, treating the root issue, like ADHD, can ease symptoms that have been misdiagnosed or misunderstood for years.
What Erin’s Story Teaches Us
Erin didn’t give up. Even when her world got really small, even when she felt trapped in her home and her mind—she kept advocating for herself.
And that’s the part that stuck with me the most. Her story is a reminder that you’re never too old to get the answers you need. You’re not too broken. You’re not too late.
Every step counts, even the smallest ones.
If You’re Reading This and Wondering…
If your anxiety doesn’t fully respond to therapy or meds…
If your brain feels like it’s running 100 tabs at once…
If you’ve always felt “different” but didn’t have the words for it…
It might be worth having a conversation with your provider about ADHD. And if you’re already diagnosed but still struggling, that doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. This stuff is complex. And healing doesn’t happen in a straight line.
You are not alone in this.
Want to share your story too?
If Erin’s vulnerability gave you a spark of clarity or hope, I invite you to consider sharing your own story, anonymously if you’d like. CLICK HERE TO SHARE YOUR STORY
You never know who your story might help.
Recap Section
Erin’s story is a powerful reminder of how untreated ADHD can mask itself behind anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion. Getting the right diagnosis changed everything for her, and it could for you too.
5 Key Takeaways:
- Untreated ADHD can mimic or worsen anxiety symptoms.
- Adult diagnoses are valid and important.
- Agoraphobia and other conditions may have deeper roots.
- Advocacy is a vital part of healing.
- It’s never too late to ask new questions about your mental health.
Actionable Items
- Journal your symptoms honestly and look for patterns.
- Talk to a licensed provider about ADHD if something feels “off.”
- If you already have a diagnosis, revisit your treatment plan if symptoms persist.
- Check out my ADHD guidebook for lived-experience tools.
- Share your story HERE.
FAQ Section
Q. How do I know if my anxiety is actually ADHD?
A. I’m not a doctor, but if traditional anxiety treatments haven’t helped much, it might be worth talking to a licensed provider about ADHD evaluations.
Q. Can ADHD really show up in adulthood?
A. Yes. A lot of people go undiagnosed until their 30s, 40s, or even later. The signs were usually there the whole time, we just didn’t have the language or support back then.
Q. Is it normal to feel overwhelmed even after getting a diagnosis?
A. Totally. Diagnosis is just the beginning. It’s okay to feel a mix of relief, grief, and confusion. You’re not alone in that.
Q. Where can I learn more about real stories like Erin’s?
A. Right here on Your Vibe, Your Story. Watch more stories and consider submitting your own: https://thevibewithky.com/share-your-mental-health-story/
