Dear Church,
I wanted to share a more personal word with you this week.
I mentioned a few weeks back that I made a decision to take better care of myself post-pandemic, in particular, being intentional about my ADHD and seeking treatment for that.
Here’s an update on how that’s going:
- Still experimenting with medications. I’m on my second one that has no side effects (thankfully!) but I’m not really sure if it’s doing all that much to help. Have a follow up appointment in 2 weeks with my doctor to check in about it.
- Organizing my environment: I gave myself permission (with Sharon’s input and support) to rearrange my working station in my office. This was hard for me to do because I had to spend several hundred dollars but I purchased: 1- a small treadmill and 2- a standing desk. I’m able to type (like this letter here) and read as I walk slowly at my computer. One of the factors that contribute to ADHD his a chronically under-stimulated focus (known by the experts as the Task-Positive Network). Moving my body while I’m working enables me to sustain my attention and be more productive. (This is one reason why hyperactivity is often associated with ADHD: body movements and restlessness are ‘hacking/coping’ skills to stimulate the brain for those with ADHD in order to focus and pay attention.)
- Sleep: I’m giving myself a bedtime during the week of 10pm. I still wake up early sometimes (like this morn: 4am) but I’m hopeful new bedtime and reduction of screens in evening will help my sleep patterns. I just recently learned that sleep issues coincide with ADHD. (I’m considering a sleep study too; there may be more going on than just ADHD here).
I share to update you on what’s going on in my life, but also as permission for all of us: what areas of your life have you been neglecting? What invitations or opportunities are there for you to learn more about who you are, your particular challenges and needs, and how to better take care of yourself?
May you feel increased freedom today to take your health seriously.
May you treat yourself with care and concern.
May you pursue physical, mental, and emotional well-being and wellness (along with spiritual health of course!)
Praying for you, Church, and grateful to be able to share with you what’s going on in my life.
Peace,
Fr. Matt
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