My ADHD debt free diary 2025

tibawo

Because of my ADHD I am statistically about 30% more likely to get into debt. Whilst this is itself makes me realise I am not alone it does not help with the constant battles I have with money.

Impulse and bargain spending is a nightmare. Even today I have bought 4 loaves of bread in tramps corner (yellow sticker area) yet the likelihood of us eating it or it fitting in the freezer is slim. Then there was the bargain large santa bag for 50p, i have no use for it whatsoever but I did, only just, talk myself out of it. 

It builds up. I only managed to sort a payment plan when threatened with a CCJ application. My brain doesn’t kick in until there is a sense of real urgency.

Now some people say it’s just a simple thing with mind over matter but with an ADHD brain, life is never constant. 

Join me as I try to take stock and tackle my debt and the other random things I do over 2025.  

Nexgenn

Hello, newbie here! I've joined MSE because I was recently diagnosed with ADHD and started medication. Now I am thinking clearer, I realised what a pickle I've got myself into with debts. Impulse purchases and ignoring debt until it comes to bite you are definitely Hallmarks of ADHD!

I'll be joining you on your journey, just spent hours sorting out my budgets and things, determined to get myself out of debt! Good luck with it all, I'll try and remember to keep an eye on your progress!

tibawo

So didn’t win the lottery - if i bought a ticket I might have had a very slim chance!

I’ve a to do list as long as my arm as well as a budget to sort and am just feeling so overwhelmed. I know I need to break it down into small chunks and that once started some things will be done in minutes. Ironically I know what to do, how to tackle the list but energy and motivation aren’t forthcoming!

Like many female ‘adhders’ i am very good at masking as i’m so jovial and they have no idea of the debts i hide.

First admission debt wise is that behind on gas/leccy by about £270. Others, of varying sizes to come.

tibawo

Back again… lots of procrastinating going on. It’s hard getting my head out of the sand and putting the debts all into one place.

Credit Card (Z1) £3200

I think apart from leccy rent and household bills like water etc are all up to date. 

Going to check what i owe to catalogues that currently pay lowell today.

Flick85

Didn't want to just read and run so popping in to say 'hi' from a fellow (probable) ADHD-er with a penchant for procrastination! The amount of things that I have bought online that needed to be returned and yet never managed to... 

astrocytic_kitten

I'm still on the waiting list for ADHD diagnosis, but it was during my debt repayment journey I realised I probably have it - the cycle of impulse spending, sticking head in sand, finally facing up to and making a big push to pay off debt, only to end up in even more debt the next time round is very familiar to me! Will be following along to cheer you on!

adhd_spender

Fellow neurospicy here. Diagnosed combined ADHD and on autism waiting list. I've been in debt since 16 (now 60!), and am just under £5k in debt now. We can do this! Self awareness and putting in strategies to help us will get us there. You are not alone xxx