I agree with the spectrum model. In many cases, it's not black and white that you either have something or don't. I think that's why I often say that I have "ADHD-like symptoms" rather than that I have ADHD. I think there is a similar spectrum for hypertension, autism, depression, anxiety, etc. In my heart of hearts I actually do not think I have ADHD. But I have some similar symptoms. And meds are helping them. I was much more willing to take meds for ADHD-like symptoms than I ever was for depression (would not take anti-depressants) or anxiety. Why is that?

I think one of my issues may be a sleep "disorder", and the stimulants really help with that. And with that under control, I can be alert, focus better, get things done, be more organized, etc. I guess in the end, if you are open to taking meds, it doesn't matter what the diagnostic label is. The question is "are you being helped by these meds?"

I am wondering if I was reluctant to take meds for anxiety and depression because I saw them as likely to cause some fundamental change in my personality. I actually like who I am and don't want to change something that helps define me. Recently, when I saw my PNP, she was satisfied with my response to the stimulants and my new functionality. She then asked if I wanted to work on one of my other problems (social anxiety). She was ready to discuss a drug solution for that. I wasn't. I'm OK being shy and having some anxiety in crowds. I am not an outgoing person. I am not the life of the party. Yes, big social gatherings intimidate me and I have trouble going to the cafeteria at work. But I'm OK with that. Part of it is being comfortable in my own skin. I have worked for decades on that, as we all do every day. I am content to be an introvert even if society doesn't value that.