Adult ADHD
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Adult ADHD
Jan 2011
I have recently been diagnosed with ADHD, the attention
deficit type. I am a 38 year old woman with a 2 year old.
My house has constantly been a disorganised mess, I can't
cook and never seem to be able to follow recipes, I have
skipped from job to job through-out my working life and
have lost a lot of self confidence, consequently I find
myself in temp admin jobs for which I am embarrassingly
over qualified. I find it hard to spend quality time with
my daughter as my mind is often worn out by continually
roaming from one pointless thought to another so I tend to
sit her in front of the tv a lot so I can zone out (which
I hate myself for doing). My question is, what can I
expect from medication? It's hard to get an idea from the
internet as medication either seems to completely
transform people's lives or do nothing. I admit I'm
looking for a magic pill but even if things got 10% better
for me it would be amazing. What are other people's
experiences?
I can totally relate to what you're going through. I was diagnosed
with ADD in 2005. My life was a disorganized mess, everything felt
like a struggle and I had extreme difficulty at work. All of it was
causing a serious loss of self confidence which was causing trouble
with my interactions with other people. I knew I was not living up to
my potential in all areas of my life.
It was then that my therapist and my doctor prescribed Strattera, a
non- stimulant ADD medication. It changed my life. I felt grounded,
literally, like my feet were suddenly on the ground. I'd felt like my
consciousness had been floating far above my body before and with the
medication I was suddenly firmly rooted both in my body and in
reality, here and now.
I'm not sure what your experience will be, as ADHD is generally
treated with a stimulant, but I suggest you give the medication a
chance, especially if your expectations are as realistic as you say.
Be sure you give it a chance to work as some medications take a few
weeks to take full affect. I wish you the very best of luck. I know
how helpless and frustrating it is to go through what you're going
through.
Empathetic
My heart goes out to you. Its hard enough to be a parent
without also having ADHD. As the parent of a teenager
with ADHD who probably got it from her parents, I can only
tell you that you don't have to know the answer to your
question before trying medication. Medication works for
some but not for others. Some people have side effects
that are tolerable or become tolerable with time. For
others, this is not the case. The real issue is trying
the meds long enough and making sure they are strong
enough before deciding whether or not it works for you. If
they don't work, you can always stop them without added
side effects. Remember, medication will not change your
life unless you also include working with a medical doctor
and a therapist to help you learn the tools to manage your
life. You might also want to subscribe to this ADHD
newsletter at http://helpforadd.com for updates on the new
research coming out for both children and adults. Good
luck on your journey.
anonymous
I am also an adult with ADHD, diagnosed in adulthood.
Everyone's reaction to the medication is different, so you
have to try them starting in small doses to figure out if
and how they work for you. Personally, I hate the meds
and think they are entirely overrated. Normally I am
relaxed, social, funny person but on the medication I am
uptight, anal, and sweat a lot. I take meds when I have to
absolutely sit down and meet a deadline. I have tried
several different types of medication, and haven't been
too happy with any of them, but see their value at the
right time when distraction is just not an option.
As you experiment with them, you'll probably learn what
works for you. Like many people with ADHD, I can get
hyperfocused when doing something I like such as creative
tasks. I have learned that I have to avoid the activities
that I like when I take the meds because the focus on that
task is difficult to stop. For example if I sit down to do
taxes and take medication, if there is a photoalbulm which
I have been meaning to organize on the same desk as the
tax receipts, I am likely to start focusing on task of
organizing the photoalbulm because I enjoy it. Once I
start on the fun task, its increadably hard to switch
attention to the task I don't like. So before taking the
medications, I remove all the fun things from the area,
close the door, don't allow myself to look at the
internet, etc. and start on the task, eventually the meds
do kick in and I do make progress on a goal.
You should also look at other approaches to ADHD as well,
such as diet (eat protien!), exercise, and other
nonmedication ''coping mechanisms'' to help you get to where
you want to go. Remember, there are lots of very famous
and successful people with ADHD who have done great things
before the meds, so the meds are not the cure, just maybe
a piece of the puzzle.
anon
I, too, was recently diagnosed with adult ADHD, inattentive type. It was a
relief for me to put a name to problems I've experienced all my life (bouncing
from idea to idea, difficulty finishing projects and massive feelings of
underachievement).
From what I've learned, everyone's ADHD is unique but there seems to be
common treatments which, when used in combination, have helped me. They
are:
1) COACHING- getting professional help with time management,
organizational standards, setting goals and completing projects.
2) SUPPORT- understanding that I am not alone has helped. There is a
National Organization known as CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD-
www.chadd.org) which provides a wealth of information, access to articles
studies, referrals to professionals etc. And there is a local organization,
NorCalCHADD (www.norcalchadd.org), which also offers some contacts and
support groups (the adult support group in Berkeley meets on the 2nd
Monday of each month.
3) MEDICATION- I recently started a stimulant medication. It has helped
quite a bit with my focus although it has not been a panacea (not that I
expected one). There might be a better medication for me and I'm working
with a psychiatrist on this. One thing that I think is important is to work
with
a psychiatrist who has experience with diagnosis and treatment of ADHD.
Like you, I found internet posts to be wide-ranging and, of course, not very
scientific. Exposure to professionals and national organizations helped me
get comfortable with the idea of trying medication and now being proactive in
working with my doctor to manage it.
4) EXERCISE- leading ADHD researchers have conducted studies linking
exercise with enhanced brain function. Of course, exercise is good for
everyone but it really helps me.
5) COUNSELING- there is no doubt that the feelings of frustration resulting
from having ADHD has led to comorbidity disorders such as depression,
anxiety or low self-esteem. Therapy has helped with this.
Of course, this is my experience and yours may be very different. I applaud
you for posting your question and seeking help. That is a huge first step.
The journey forward may be long (life long) but I am betting worth the effort
and ultimately rewarding.
Good luck.
Adult ADD Guy
Jan 2010
It seems pretty clear from my husband's behavior, and online
diagnostics tests, that my husband has ADD. He functions
pretty well - holds a job, etc. But, it drives me crazy.
He can't find things, our garage is a mess because of him,
and more. I find this so frustrating and feel that it's now
at a point that it affects how I relate to him.
He gets this too, and would like to fix things, which is
wonderful. Where do we start? We are not interested in
drug solutions, but rather for him to learn some new ways of
doing things and being more organized.
Does anyone know a coach or someone who works with ADD
people to help them learn better organization skills? Other
options? We're in the North Berkeley/Albany area, and would
love something close by.
Thanks!
Thankful he wants to change
My husband has ADD too. I would recommend that he get a real evaluation to
actually see if he is truly has ADD. My husband has only recently been
diagnosed with ADD. Living with his destructive behavior has severally affected
our marriage. I wouldn't rule out medications. When my husband actually takes
his medication I see a completely different person...a reasonable man! If his
clutter and disorganization skills are affecting you I know there are coaches out
there that can help with those skills. I am personally not looking for coaches
yet. I am looking for a therapist who specializes in adult ADD. There is a great
book that really helped me understand and live with someone with ADD is a
book called, ''Is it you or me? or adult ADD:, the author is Gina Pera. Good Luck
Dianna
My spouse gave me the book Driven From Distraction, saying
I needed to read it since it's for Adults w/ ADD/ADHD.
Caveat- ''wrecking our marriage'', said the spouse.
Anyway, haven't read the book by Holloway (who wrote
Driven to Distraction for kid-related issues) but am
trying Adderall. What is good about the meds in this class
is that:
1) They either work or don't work very quickly - in
matter of days you will (everyone else,too, if it works)
know if it's helpful.
2) There are a lot of choices of both stimulant and non-
stimulant meds.
3) Don't make you gain weight.
4) Can take only one dose for part of the day.
P.S. My spouse can always tell if I've taken my dose or
not and I can't tell so much but seem to be less scattered.
P.S.S. Her untreated issues are wrecking our marriage.
We're trying the live in the same house but divorced
status.
Jan 2009
Over the past few years I have started to figure out that I have ADD.
One person had suggested the possibility years ago, but his metaphor
of ''changing channels'' all at once didn't resonate with me. It
sounded so dramatic. But, now I really understand that I do have
it. I can remember taking the SAT in high school (I am now 38) and
having to re-read the reading comprehension part over and over because
I couldn't pay attention for even a paragraph. Or taking dance
lessons and not being able to pay attention long enough to remember
the moves. I would start thinking about what was for lunch, etc.
Through pure terror and smart studying, I somehow made it through law
school, but I was a terrible lawyer because I would start to read a
letter or a brief or proof read something and not be able to get
through it. I leave the stove on and forget I'm boiling water only to
come back to a burnt pot, etc. I am totally addicted to the internet
because it is the ideal thing for someone with ADD who can go off on a
different path at any moment.
I have no idea what to do. I don't have hyperactivity and I would
prefer not to be on drugs as I am already on an anti-depressant. But
I clearly have to do something. Has anyone else dealt with this?
j
Your message is very poignant for me because my lovely 13 year old son
just went through an educational evaluation and was told that he had a
pretty severe case of ADD, but his is attention deficit with no
hyperactivity (perhaps like you). He just has an extremely difficult
time staying attentive. The psychologist who worked with him said
that even at this age, there are signs that he is getting depressed,
overwhelmed, and really depleted because he has been compensating for
so long. So I am wondering if your depression is related to the long
hard work of trying to cope in the world given your attention deficit.
I would really recommend that you try to get a similar (age
appropriate) evaluation. If you have the funds, it's worth the money.
I also wonder if it would ultimately be worthwhile for you to wean off
the anti-depressants and try med.s for ADD. (Though I am no expert on
this.) I do know adults who are treated for ADD. I have recommended
Phyllis Koppelman on this site before. Certainly she is a
compassionate and insightful person and
was very helpful to my son at an earlier stage in his development.
Her e-mail is: phyllis@strategiesforlearning.com --and if she can't be
directly helpful, I bet she'll have good referrals. Best wishes.
Elizabeth
Research shows that a 20 minute walk in an area with lots of
green plants improves attention. Here is a link:
http://news.mongabay.com/2008/1021-hance_adhd.html
anon
My husband has Tourette Syndrome and ADD is a component of this non-inhibition condition (along with OCD, tics, etc). Over the 12+ years we have been together, he has found a variety of coping mechanisms which include technology, medication, and support from those around him. First, don't kick yourself, because raising your level of depression makes it much harder to find ways to stay on track. Second, please go and see a psychiatrist who regularly works with adults with ADD. My husband's psychiatrist works with the whole body, and has prescribed a regimen of vitamins, minerals, and anti-
depressants which help my husband with his attention variability. T hird, to get organized and stay on task, my husband uses a PDA with reminder settings religiously. Fourth, he also feels that he stumbled into the right career for him: he is a speech pathologist in a local school district, and working with different kids means that each day is unique and interesting unto itself, so there is a creative outlet for his ADD. Fifth, take yourself away from the internet as much as possible; I think it reduces motivation to deal with the ADD. Last, the people who love him, and those he works with, know that he has organization issues at times (fewer and fewer as the years go on), and are mostly compassionate, which really lowers the external pressure on him. I wish you all the best.
I love my husband, ADD and all!
My spouse has ADD and we did not realize until we had children. He was
able ''to cover'' until there was too much to juggle in his life. The
first thing he did was to get a professional assessment. After we had
the results, we started to find solutions (better scheduling, using
lists, no multi-tasking for him, medication). From what I have read,
many people with undiagnosed ADD are misdiagnosed with
depression/anxiety.
ADD can really effect every aspect of your life. Get tested and use
professionals to help find a solution.
Good luck.
anon
My daughter has just been diagnoed with Adult ADD-inattentive type. She is a Jr. in HS. In reading up on the topic I too have similar symptoms and always have. Over the years it has been recommended that we have our daughter tested but I was adamantly against giving her drugs. We actually thought she could overcome her problems by hard work and disipline... I was in total denial obviously. :( and did not really understand that she Could Not do the homework, no matter how hard she tried. She would ACE every test but flunk the homework (mostly because it is always late) which would give her about a ''C'' in the class. What finally broke the drug barrier for me was when she asked to be tested... with tears in her eyes. You see her grades do not reflect the intellect and obvious intelligence that anyone who talks with her can obviously detect. And these grades would not get her into the college that she wants to attend. She began the ADD Rx in late Oct. and since Thanksgiving she has been able to focus (as she never has before) and caught up all her late assignments. I am hopeful that this next report card will reflect this new abiltiy to focus and produce the assigned homework. In your post you say that you do not want to try the ADD drugs because you are currently taking anti-depresants. I just read an article that says many people who begin ADD drugs no longer need anti-depressants, now that they are able to get their work done they are not as depressed about their situation and life in general. AND the ADD drugs only work if you really do have ADD. That is actually how they determine if the original diagnosis is correct, if the ADD drugs work then the diagnosis is comfirmed. I am considering talking to my Dr. about trying the ADD Rx. Good luck with your decision,,, sorry about the length of this post, the subject is very fresh with me right now.
Anon
I too have depression and ADD. Unfortunately, an estimate of 75% of
adults with untreated ADD have an additional issue such as depression.
For me, much of my depression resulted from others interpreting my ADD
behaviors as intentional. And, for years, I used coffee as my
''stimulant.'' Lately I have been taking low doses of an
anti-depressant and a stimulant(much fewer side effects than coffee)
and this has given me a foundation for changing my life for the
better. As well, exercise, some sort of focused relaxation
(meditation, qi gong or yoga), Omega-3 oil and healthy diet(as well as
drinking plenty of water) are also pretty important. I recommend that
you look at the book SPARK by Ratey and YOUR MIND CAN CHANGE YOUR
BRAIN by Doidge, and check out the website, www.CHADD.com (CHADD is a
national organization with resources for ADD.) If you can afford an
ADD coach, that will help as well. People with ADD have real
differences in the way their brains develop and operate. Best of
luck, finding your optimum mix of supports will really help.
--an educational consultant
June 2007
My husband was diagnosed with ADD a month before the birth of our 2nd child
(now alomst 2). It was a relief to hear it b/c I no longer took his ''stuff'' so
personally
or intentionally. I actuall y have a lot of compassion for him as I see ho hard he
struggles.
He does not want to take stimulants but has tried 2 other meds with slight results
(moslty a lift in depression/hostility)-however he is presently not taknig anything
b/c of side effects.
I keep encoruaging diet changes, fish oils but he forgets.
I get frustrated b/c I feel like I am doing all the work , cleaning up after him
and a
nag for asking/reminding him to do stuff...
Thoughts? I deas? Books?
We are very very tight on money...
Also, of course, I am worried about our kids. What should I be on the look out for?
frustrated
For loads of information and support go to www.CHADD.org
It stands for something like children and adults with attention
deficit hyperactivity disorder. I've worked with a number of
ADD people as a coach and have not found medication to be
necessary.
DS
You are fortunate that your husband has been diagnosed. It's
much better to know the devil you are dealing with! The best
weapon for your husband is information, and he can get
straightforward, scientifically validated information at
www.chadd.org. Thanks to the efforts of this national
organization and our local group of volunteers, he can attend
support groups that meet weekly at Alta Bates Herrick Campus (on
Dwight Way, between Milvia and Shattuck). They are open to
non-members and cost $5. It's a great place to get ideas and
enjoy the company of those who also deal with the disorder. As
you can tell, I'm an enthusiastic supporter of CHADD! For a
schedule of the meetings, visit www.chaddnorcal.org. He'll be
welcomed and appreciated. LL
Jan 2007
I am just figuring out (at age 36) that I have pretty severe ADD w/o
hyperactivity. I am very interested in taking medication (and
already take Celexa, an anti depressant). BuT I also can get a bit
panicky and anxious if I am overstimulated... even by too much
coffee. Not sure what to do as I think my problem would only be
marginally helped by therapy. If anyone has thoughts or suggestions
on medication or next steps, I'd be grateful. I have wasted two
years ''writing'' and been unable to really get anything done.
I am so paralyzed by this ADD. anon
Both of my teenage sons are ADD, one suffers from anxiety and
panic attacks and one from depression too. We have had
excellent relief from Acupunturist Geraldine Shute. She is at
the Emeryville Health and Wellness Center. My sons are needle
phobic, so this was a big deal, she totally put them at ease. I
also saw her for knee pain and had excellent results - no
surgery and no pain killers.
Rosa
CHADD has founded a series of weekly support groups for those
with ADHD, that meet in Berkeley.
- Join CHADD online www.chaddnorcal. org
or call 1-800-233-4050, scholarships available.
- For reliable info:
www.chadd.org
www.chaddnorcal. org
www.help4adhd. org
All support groups are free for CHADD members; a $5 donation
from nonmembers is appreciated.
LL
Jan 2006
After listening to me for more than 6 mos., my therapist has
concluded that, perhaps, after all, it is my husband who might
have undiagnosed adult ADD. I would agree he perfectly fits the
profile and, as we approached the subject, he is actually open
to the possibility. Can someone recommend a specialist in
Berkeley (or Marin) for adult ADD? Any other recommendation
from people/couples who dealt with the same.
thank you
Linda Lawton is an educational therapist with offices in Albany and Walnut Creek. She works with adults who have ADD and has been successful in helping them turn around their lives.
anon
Adults with ADD, like myself, began as children with ADD.
Chances are the ADD adult had trouble in school, like ''not paying attention.'' See the CHADD website for loads of information. Sue Coleman is a local coach who is well-known in the ADD field-339-6197.
ADD is unfortunately called a disorder. It is simply another way of gathering and processing information and relating to life. There are many ways to use the gifts of ADD to excel, and many tools to help with the challenges.
Sydney
I direct a clinic that offers multiple services for kids / adults wtih learning / attention difficulties. We provided assistance with diagnosis, counseling and coaching. For more info visit our website: www.abilityrc.com. There is also a section of the Berkeley Parents Network resource list that reviews our clinic and other local providers.
[editor note: see this page.] Hope that helps.
Glenn Gelfenbein, LMFT
Add is a mental condition and should be treated as such.
Specially in adults it can be stressful for the spouse.It does not get better if it goes untreated. Assuming all the marital chores to make the person less aware of his condition is not the way to go either. Has to be a combinaton of medical treatment and marital counseling; it is very hard to make it work on the long run without help.
Being there too.
I am a 40 year old male who was just recently diagnosed with a type of ADD. While it's a challenge to deal with, my wife and I were both kind of relieved by the diagnosis. I am working with a psychiatrist at the Amen clinic in Fairfield. I don't know of a Berkeley ADD specialist but I highly recommend Dr. Amen's clinic and his book on ADD which you can find in any bookstore.
Also check out his book titled ''Change Your Brain Change Your Life'' which has some ADD material. Here is the URL to his
website too: http://amenclinic.com/ Good luck!
Robert
Also look into Asperger's Syndrome as a possible (and easly confused) diagnosis.
anon
Peter Klaaphack at 10 Renz Road in Mill valley is a wonderful expert on Adult ADD. I recomend him highly.
julia
ADD and many similar attention disorders have been successfully treated
in the past through non-invasive sensory integration therapy. I would
question not only if you hear well, but also your sensitivities to sound
at different frequencies. If your processing of the sensory stimuli is
working well, many of the symptoms of this condition have been known to
disappear Bryan
March 2005
Is anyone out there familiar with adult attention deficit
disorder? I have seen the commercials for drugs on television
and taken a quiz on the internet, and I am worried that I have
it. OR maybe I am just bone idle. At work I have trouble keeping
my attention on the simplest task, playing games and surfing the
internet instead. I tell myself, as I am doing these things,
that I just need to get up and do the work, but I can't seem to
make it happen. I can get a lot done when I am under the gun,
but when I think about all that I could be doing if I could just
concentrate, I am very frustrated with myself. This has been
happening for years, but I still seem to be relatively
successful in what I do, so far. Now I am worried that it really
has hurt me and will cost me a promotion in the near future, but
I am terribly embarrassed about asking anyone about it.
Alternatively I may just be a fool who somehow is addicted to
solitaire, and that seems pathetic to me. Help!
anon
If it's ADD it will show up in other parts of your life besides your
work. Do you have trouble getting your housework done? Your bills
handled? Did you have a hard time getting your schoolwork started
unless a deadline was looming? If you do have ADD it would be very
helpful to have a diagnosis so you could effectively address the real
source of your problems at work. I'm an educational therapist and ADD
coach, working with adults to address time management, project
management and other issues associated with the condition, and I would
be happy to talk to you about your concerns. Though I am not qualified
to diagnose this, the archives of this newsletter list the names of many
professionals who do. With a diagnosis you could stop beating yourself
up, begin to learn more about it and develop some strategies that would
help you overcome your frustrations. If it's not ADD, it could be
something else like anxiety or depression, also treatable. Imagine the
relief...
Linda Lawton
There are other conditions that might cause the symptoms you mentioned,
but if there is any chance you are ADD I'd suggest getting evaluated as
soon as possible...
its treatable, the resources for dealing with Adult ADD with or without
medication are many, and you can get rid of the terrible feeling that
you are just ''lazy.''
For me it was a big step forward, and I was sorry to put it off getting
evaluated for so long. I think the fear was that they'd decide I DIDN'T
have ADD. If you are ADD, knowing is only good.
I Played Snood
I think it is more likely that you don't love your work or have become
bored. Thus, you avoid the drudgery.
Perhaps you even hate your work? I think it is unhealthy to stay in
hated work any longer than necessary. It sends the body constant
messages of self-loathing (you are forcing your body to endure this
enslavement to hated activities). I too had these sorts of problems when
I was in a corporate environment. It took a long time for me to be able
to make a switch, but I'm far happier/successful.
Playing those solitaire games, in general, is a way to avoid and cope
with the unpleasantness of life (whether it's overwhelm, boredom,
dissatisfaction or depression). It doesn't make you a bad person. But
you can open your eyes to these cues and perhaps decide to address the
underlying issues. If you do that, you stand to be much happier and
productive, no matter what you do.
Maybe you should think about what else you would enjoy doing?
Ali
I am on the computer all day for my job and I do take a
brain break now and then by playing solitaire. I don't think
I am ADD. When I have been focusing intensely on my work, it
is soothing and satisfying to me to play a couple of games.
It's just enough mental activity to keep me engaged but not
so much that I really have to think. Sort of like reading
a mystery. I don't think our noses have to always be on the
grindstone. I wouldn't worry unless you are doing it so much
that your work isn't getting done.
Ginger
Jan 2005
Hi,
I'm looking for a couples' therapist that has some expertise with ADD. Has anyone had any experience with Melinda White,MFT in Berkeley?
I really appreciate any responses. Thank you.
Recommended:
Ability Resource Center Oakland
Nov 2003
My spouse has many symptoms that match Attention Deficit
Disorder -- short attention span, easily distracted, temper
flare-ups when patience is required in normal life situations
(this has led to some very dangerous situations and accidents in
the car), not hearing things he is told, inability to keep a
calendar or otherwise organize his obligations, loses things
easily, etc. The unexpected rage episodes are shocking and
hurtful for me and I have growing concerns about their impact on
our 2 year old. We are also considering having a second child,
so we really want to resolve whatever we can now. Can someone
recommend a caring, competent doctor that evaluates adult ADD,
and that is neutral on the issue of medication as treatment?
Any other recommendations from people who have investigated this
situation would be appreciated. I looked on the CHADD website
but the two Bay Area centers do not focus on adults. Thanks.
Seeking answers
Previously I posted that we used Dr. Wm. Dickman in SF to
diagnose my husband's ADD. I have recently learned that Dr.
Gary Landman in Orinda, (925) 253-1041, may also diagnose adult
ADD. We have not used him for this, but he may be worth giving
a call. I found Dr. Dickman to be a warmer personality.
ADD spouse
Try Glen Gelfenbein of the Ability Resource Center ... (click link to see reviews)
I am an ADD coach, and an intern educational therapist. Marin CHADD and East
Bay LDA both have resources for Adult ADD. A licensed mental health
professional can diagnose ADD, but you have to visit an MD for medication, if
you choose to investigate that. Dr. Steve Baskin, in Berkeley, and Dr.
Robert Picker, in Concord, are two I know of who have a lot of experience with
adult ADD.
'' Multi-modal treatment'' is the most effective approach, according to
current research. One mode is psychotherapy, to deal with the emotional
issues that arise from a lifetime of coping with an undiagnosed
neurobiological condition, as well as the rollercoaster ride that comes with
adult diagnosis. Another is coaching, to help develop new approaches and
habits and/or educational therapy, which is treatment specifically organized
to address the cognitive processing issues that are a challenge in daily life
(and diagnose possible comorbid learning disabilities through
psychoeducational assessment). Medication is the mode that is the most widely
recognized treatment.
In my experience, medication is not the simple silver bullet that some think
it is. There are several types of medication. They work differently in
different brains, and are tolerated to different degrees by each body. Dosing
takes a little while to get just right. Medication has gotten a bad
reputation in some circles, but it is informative to read some of the
remarkable responses to it on ADD websites or in books. As an adult, you
always have the choice to try it and not use it. It's a little different
decision when an adult chooses it for a child. Some people have no choice
about medication because they can't tolerate it, some people feel it isn't
necessary. I see clients who are medicated and who are not, and those who
wish they could be.
I am not for or against medication, but for considering ADD as a serious
neurobiological condition. One of the consequences of ADD is a higher
incidence of automobile accidents. In deference to safety and wellbeing, it
is important to be open to the most effective treatments for the individual.
The stress that ADD puts on individuals and families is ongoing and can be
intense. It is invisible, but real, 24-7. It even affects sleep. ADD never
goes away, though it can be managed, much like a condition such as diabetes or
a more visible physical disability.
The upside of ADD isn't discussed nearly as much as the downside. The ability
to see connections that others don't, the mental gymnastics and creativity
that often come with the package, the innovative problem solving
abilities...Look at a list of famous people who have or are believed to have
had ADD. It's impressive. There are lots of web resources and books to read.
It's a fascinating subject. Good luck in your search. Linda Lawton
Jan 2003
I would appreciate some help in findiing a good doctor to
evaluate an adult for ADD. The doctors recommendations
on file seem to be for pediatric ADD/ADHD.
Currently Anonymous, probably ADD
I was diagnosed AD/HD in September 1997--explained my entire
life, and gave me a framework for beginning to make changes to
accomodate my handicaps and celebrate the wonders of a non-linear
brain. It has been an interesting journey. I believe that the
resources available to Adult ADD-ers locally have grown
tremendously and hope you'll get up to date replies, but
meanwhile the Amen center in Vacaville is undeniably one of the
leading research/treatment centers in the country for people with
attention-specter disorders. I'm also sure there's tons of
online support...
Feel free to contact me if you're interested in my experiences
with diagnosis and treatment...In a nutshell, I found stimulant
medication invaluable (and used it in high dosages throughout my
pregnancy and 2 years of breastfeeding with absolutely no ill
effects on my child) and found good behavioral therapy difficult
to come by.
Jenny
Jennifer Kirkland, Ph.D in Albany has had extensive experience
testing and evaluating LD, ADD, and Neuropsychological issues
for adults (as well as children). She has tested a wide variety
of people, from law students to people who may qualify for SSI.
In addition to performing the tests, she can help you come up
with a plan to deal with the results. She has a warm
personality, together with a laudable competency that should
recommend her for anyone who needs a good evaluation. Jennifer
Kirkland, Ph.D. 1057 Solano Ave, Albany 94706. 510-525-6608
Jeanne
Jan 2003
After attending a seminar on neurotransmitters, which included an
overview of ADHD and ADD, I realized that my twin brother has most
likely been suffering from ADD all his life. I won't go into
symptom details here, but I was astounded at the miriad of typical
ADD behaviors which seem to run (ruin) my brother's life. He has
never received any type of medical assistance/diagnosis.
Can anyone recommend how to go about getting help for an adult
with ADD? At the age of 46, his life patterns are very ingrained
and he tends to be extremely obstructionist when ever he perceives
the hint of criticism.
Has anyone ever been diagnosed with ADD as an adult? How is the
diagnosis done? What worked/didn't work for you? Any advise from
someone who has 'been there' would be helpful.
I love my brother and want him to have a happier life.
helpless on the sidelines
My brother-in-law was diagnosed with ADD in his early 20's, while in
college at the University of Pennsylvania. At the time (in the
early 90's), the UP School of Medicine was running clinical
research/services for Adult Diagnosed ADD. They were using a
combination of medication, reading/focusing exercises and talk
therapy (to deal with the variety of issues that accrue for those
growing up with visual processing disorders). Over time, they
reduce the meds, then tail off the exercises and the therapy. I
don't know the status of the program now, but it should be
researchable. It was effective for him.
Diane
Oct 2001
Can anyone who has been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD as an adult give me some
idea of what kind of professional you approached to arrive at the diagnosis?
and what kind of help was recommemded? drugs, strategies, etc. I have
checked all the web sites, heck I wrote one for my young child who has ADHD,
inattentive type. I need help for a young adult now who just feels unable to
concentrate for long periods of time and just feels she doesn't "get it" the
way others do because she somehow misses key info. She skated through BHS,
now college is proving a serious challenge and she sees the difference
close-up (dorm living) between what she can do and what the other kids seem
capable of.
While I was in therapy it became apparent to my
therapist and me that my husband has ADD. It took
time, but he finally went to a psychiatrist (Dr. Wm.
Dickman, (415) 922-9492 in SF). After meeting with
both of us three times and filling out questionaires,
he was diagnosed with ADD and given medication. We
met a number of times since then to adjust the
medication. This can be a long, frustrating process.
Dr. Dickman suggested other therapy. We finally
started marriage conseling about a month ago. I hope
this leads to my husband getting individual therapy
with emphasis on ADD, but he hasn't agreed to this
yet. Most professionals I've talked to about this
suggests that you need the combination of medication
and therapy. In some ways it's not only
phsychotherapy, but occupational therapy helping him
cope with the consequences of the physical disorder in
handling his day-to-day tasks. I know one brave woman
who is coping with just behavioral changes and no
medication, but I don't know how she manages. Again
it is a long, hard process. We have been working on
it for almost a year now. We've come a long way, but
have a long way to go. I wish you luck. If you want
to talk, please contact the moderator and I am happy
to talk with you directly.
My husband was diagnosed with ADHD about 2 years ago (he's 48 now).
As with the young adult you mentioned, he went through life feeling
like he "didn't get the whole picture". He was diagnosed by Dr. David
O'Grady in Walnut Creek (phone number is 925-256-9696). O'Grady is a
Ph. D. (psychologist or psychotherapist, I'm not sure) so he can
diagnose and make recommendations, but he can't prescribe meds (you'll
need to go to your primary care physician for that). I do think that
he has a good approach to how to deal with ADHD and better organize
your life. His wife, Dr. Susan O'Grady is also a counselor and
specializes in ADHD. They have offices together.
My husband has been on medication since he was diagnosed and says they
help him focus somewhat better (meds don't work for everyone). He
also has seen a counselor, in conjunction with his medication. I
think combining counseling and medication has the greatest impact on
ADHD, or so I've read, but it is a personal decision the individual
must be comfortable with.
As I understand ADHD, a consistent daily routine is the best approach
for stabilizing the symptoms. Any change in lifestyle makes daily
tasks more difficult. I'm guessing your friend is a freshman, which
in itself is enough to make you feel like you "don't get it"! We also
have a daughter in college (sophmore), so I know the experience can be
very overwhelming. Please tell her she's not alone! If your friend
would like to talk more, she's welcome to call or email me.
Sue
Last year, I was diagnosed with a significant weakness in the area of
auditory processing, as well as other strengths and weaknesses
determined by a series of varied assessment tests. I was referred by
the Disabled Student's Services office at UC Berkeley to Reach for
Learning, on Marin Ave in Albany. The testing agency's phone number
is 510-524-6455, speak with Corinne Gustafson, M.Ed., CET. Following
the testing series, Ms. Gustafson provided me with a report that
included; specific information on the evaluation, general educational
suggestions and strategies, and other recommendations. Good luck to
the young adult you write about.
Ana
Learning differences and ADHD are different creatures. However, the Schwab
Foundation has bunches of resources and ideas for adults with learning
differences. You can reach them at the 1660 South Amphlett Blvd. Suite
200,San Mateo, CA 94402,+1 (800) 471-9545. Maybe she can gain some
learning and organizational skills that will help her handle all the
material she has to process and learn. It can be done!
Dori
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