I'm just trying to keep my head above water
summary
An account details decades of depressive episodes, discovery of ADHD from a book at age 40 and a cited DRD4 dopamine receptor variant found in ~15–70% of populations, plus failed and partial treatments: herbal remedies, a dismissive clinic visit, and a helpful therapist who normalizes feelings. Coping strategies that work: daily training (4–6 workouts weekly), adrenaline sports (scuba, skydiving, IPSC shooting) to reset mood, reducing work to 80% flexible time, and a Lego emergency kit to interrupt spirals; notes hyper focus and being a metal monkey.
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chapters (15)
- 0:00Introduction
- 1:31Why this talk matters
- 3:58Living a life that hides mental health challenges
- 8:34Depression and worthlessness
- 12:27Obsession as strength
- 17:28Breaking point and first help
- 21:22Exercise for mental health
- 24:33Seeking professional help
- 29:47Late-life ADHD discovery
- 37:29ADHD and bipolar traits
- 41:49Practical mental health strategies
- 45:19Supportive workplaces
- 51:15Supporting colleagues
- 54:28Public mental health importance
- 1:01:11Q&A
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