I'm not presently working but I trained, and worked as, a software developer. I struggle a lot with work and my working life has been very chaotic due to shit mental health. It seems like a really stupid idea, as being a chef is meant to be really stressful. However, the idea of it being fast-paced, immediate, physical, intense, sensory seems really really appealing to me. I'm sorry if this isn't a lot of information to go on. I'm trying to reduce details, partly for privacy's sake, partly because if I don't wind myself-in this could be a novel long.

Hi all. I'll try and be succinct but as I'm sure you all realize that's often easier said than done. I don't feel like I ever hear my fellow ADHDers discuss how negative an experience hyperfocusing can be. First off, I never feel like I'm 'enjoying' myself when I hyperfocus. It feels a lot like I'm dreaming. Time moves weirdly, all my senses go askew, and it never feels like I'm in-control. Then when the focus fades for whatever reason, I feel _exhausted_. I usually have a headache from the hours of intent concentration. Oftentimes I haven't eaten, had a drink or used the toilet. As I start to come out of it I often feel quite confused and borderline hungover. It gives me such an existential crisis. An activity is either so boring I can't summon myself to engage with it or it's so absolutely engrossing that it feels like the activity is partaking of me rather than the reverse. And when I come out of it, to an extent I do feel as if I've been consumed. I don't feel happy or satisfied or fulfilled. I feel tired, confused and uncomfortable. Can anyone relate? Does anyone have any advice?