Lost $80K in the Stock Market: A Cautionary Tale of ADHD and Trading
Two years ago, I lost $80,000 through trading. My savings, mental health, and sense of self crumbled. At the time, I couldn’t grasp the reasons behind my losses; I attributed them to bad choices, bad luck, or lack of discipline. But a year later, following my ADHD diagnosis, everything suddenly made sense.
ADHD and trading can be a dangerous combination. The constant need for dopamine, impulsivity, and thirst for stimulation turned trading into a perfect storm for me. The flashing charts, quick decisions, and the rollercoaster of wins and losses became an addictive rush. Instead of pursuing financial freedom, I was merely chasing a fleeting high.
I spent countless hours adjusting strategies, obsessively analyzing charts for nonexistent patterns. I believed I was gaining insights and uncovering hidden strategies. In reality, I wasn’t trading; I was gambling. My ADHD fueled a false sense of control while everything around me spiraled out of control.
What many fail to realize is that ADHD amplifies not just impulsiveness but also overconfidence. You convince yourself you have an edge and that you’re just one successful trade away from turning everything around. In truth, you’re only deepening the hole.
By the time I recognized the trap I had fallen into, it was too late. My savings were gone, I had deceived myself countless times, and I found my future overshadowed by regret. Choosing to quit was incredibly difficult, but it was the only path forward.
I decided to document my experience in a book, not only for others facing similar struggles but also as a means to process my journey:
The Road to Hell Feels Like Heaven: Break Free from Trading Addiction
If you have ADHD and are engaged in trading, please pay attention to the warning signs. What may initially seem like purpose and mastery can quickly spiral into obsession, destruction, and addiction.
The market doesn’t consider your unique brain wiring. It will take everything from you, leaving you with a sense of personal failure.
While the issues may not be entirely your fault, remaining stuck in this cycle will be. Take action before it’s too late.
One response
Thank you for sharing your experience so openly. It’s incredibly brave of you to discuss the impact of ADHD on your trading journey, and I appreciate the insights you’ve provided. It’s so easy to overlook how our mental health can influence our decisions, especially in high-stakes environments like trading.
Your story highlights an important aspect of self-awareness and understanding our personal triggers. Many people might find themselves in similar situations without realizing that their neurodiversity could be impacting their choices. It’s a poignant reminder that trading isn’t just about strategy or market analysis; it’s also about emotional regulation and self-control.
Writing your book is a powerful way to process your own experiences while also possibly helping others who are struggling with the same challenges. It’s crucial for those with ADHD to recognize the potential pitfalls of environments that can amplify impulsivity and overconfidence. Your warning serves as a valuable lesson about balance, awareness, and the importance of seeking help when needed.
I hope your message reaches others who might be facing a similar struggle—your courage in sharing your journey can be a lifeline for someone else. Thank you for reminding us that it’s okay to step back and re-evaluate our relationship with trading or any form of high-stimulation activity. Wishing you continued healing and success on your journey forward.