Feb 11
Join Tracy in Episode #70 of ADHD for Smart Ass Women where she introduces you to Kelsie Elizabeth. Kelsie grew up in NH and went to a small liberal arts school in Massachusetts where she earned a BS in clinical and research psychology and a second BS in music with a concentration in piano. Kelsie was also three credits short of a third degree in social welfare because she couldn’t make up her mind. Sounds pretty ADHD, doesn’t it? Kelsie was diagnosed with ADHD last year at the age of 25. At her young age, she has so much insight and wisdom and a remarkable sense of who she is. Tracy just knew that you would love Kelsie’s story.
Kelsie shares: The circumstances around her diagnosis What her symptoms were Her struggle with disabling social anxiety Her love of psychology Her early career struggles What she finally did to right herself How the correct diagnosis helped to regain her confidence What her favorite ADHD traits are How her ADHD makes her even better at her job Her keys to living successfully with ADHD Her ADHD workarounds.
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"I think the curiosity piece really helps me to succeed a lot. It's responsible for that grit. It's all tied in together, the enthusiasm and the curiosity."
- Kelsie Elizabeth
"So if you're in a job, like most jobs are that has some repetition that drives you crazy. Find your own ways to make it interesting."
- Kelsie Elizabeth
"So the first part is awareness, and not just awareness, you need to connect with some people that think like you do, even if it's only online."
- Kelsie Elizabeth
- Kelsie shares her experience with ADHD, discussing how it was undiagnosed and untreated for most of her life, leading to comorbid anxiety and depression.
- Kelsie experienced social anxiety in first grade, which worsened in her teen years and led to depression.
- Kelsie struggled with social interactions and forming deep connections in college, despite having a desire to connect with others.
[16:25 - 30:18] Mental Health Medication and Self-Awareness
- Kelsie shares her experience with social anxiety and depression, and how she found relief through therapy and medication.
- Kelsie shares her experience with medication for ADHD and anxiety, noting that it helps her be more present and clear in her thoughts, even when she's not on the medication.
- Kelsie shares how she overcame social anxiety by taking small steps towards her goals, such as leading an impromptu meeting.
[30:18 - 46:43] ADHD Awareness and Self-Care Strategies
- Kelsie emphasizes the importance of awareness and validation in living successfully with ADHD, and finds support from others who understand her experiences.
- Kelsie discusses the importance of processing emotions and reframing negative thoughts in therapy.
- Kelsie shared strategies for managing ADHD, including creating a list of ridiculous things she's done and laughing at it with friends.
