[Grahamru]

I recently found out from my partner who has ADD that I am a likely candidate for ADD. In fact, the precise words were "you're worse than me, and I am on meds." The more I dug into the subject of my personal walls concerning ADD, I have come to realize I am mostly like to have it. Frankly, I am scared but also relieved to know I am not the only one who has their mind going a million miles a minute and can't seem to focus on one thing, often bouncing from one topic to another or even answering questions before people have a chance to ask the question in the first place.

I know the next step is to see my provider, but I am curious is medication the most likely treatment option? I have read a dozen or so small articles and am now attempting to read (given my short attention span, I'm not sure how successful I'll be) three such books on ADD. I have seen anything from coaching guides to hearing horror stories of lack-luster personalities after, forgive the term, medicated.

What are some of your experiences?

I seriously need to get in to be seen and quick!

[Skully]

Originally Posted by Grahamru

I "you're worse than me, and I am on meds."

I am sorry but I laughed so hard when I read that! I too have heard that before!

I was diagnosed with ADHD (it is now called ADHD with or without hyperactivity in the DSM but that could change again, who knows lol).
Ever since I began treatment the world has been a different place! I take Adderall XR 20mg and it works pretty well. There are a lot of medications out there to treat ADHD. Some are stimulants (like adderall, ritalin, etc) and some are non stimulants. Talk with your general physician about seeing a psychiartist and discuss with the pdoc the different meds and find what would work best for you. I have found that the non stimulants did nothing for me.

Medication is only going to help to some extent. You will also have to make behavorial changes. For example: I was horrible about losing important papers and mail. I would bring it in from the mailbox and set it down somewhere and never remember where I put it. So after I started taking the meds I was told about the behavior changes and here's what I did: When I bring in the mail (or handle any piece of paper) I have a file system in my living room. As soon as I get the mail or paperwork it goes in a folder. Do not stop along the way, go straight to your folders and file it. That way you know where it is! It works like a charm, no more lost electric bill with me having to find it in the dark because I didn't pay the bill and they shut off the lights lol

I strongly recommend you see a psychiatrist over a general doctor. Some would say it makes no difference but having worked in mental health I have seen what some of the general doctors consider "treatment" for mental health issues. A pdoc will be more familiar with the medications and how they work. Let us know how you make out!

[Grahamru]

This may sound like a bit of an odd issue, but I don't honestly know who my new primary care provider will be. My insurance, if you can call it that, recently changed from a closed system (e.g., Military Medicine) to all private. My other problem is I rarely have the time to get in and see a provider because I travel the world over, and frankly I'm not sold on the idea of medication or therapy, but I know I need help and soon. I find a sense of urgency now because I feel my job performance is slipping and my relationship seems to be headed in the wrong direction.

I know I am extremely thin skinned but the last thing I need to do is lose my career or my partner. Being on the road constantly is really not helping me any, mentally or physically. I just feel the nerves starting to get to me now more than ever. Jet lag is a huge factor in my life at the moment. I am not so good at making time zone changes. Often I find it difficult to know which city I am in half the time, and when I get situated in a motel I sometimes have difficulty finding the bathroom in the middle of the night! It's NOT a pleasant feeling, believe me.

I guess my biggest fear is that one day I might just break down and cry (not very professional I suppose), but what other options do I have living life on the road? Anyone have any other feedback or coping mechanisms I might try until I can see a doctor and/or a psychiatrist?

One last question for those of you out there, with ADD, is it common to have other conditions? For example, in my case I am quite sure I have some form of PTSD from my days working in Public Safety. Sights, sounds, noises, lighting, at certain times can trigger strong emotional responses in my mind. Related, but not, I know I was also verbally and physically abused as a child. It sounds like a lot of luggage, but I am simply amazed I am where I am today. Successful, but something doesn't seem to be right in my life mentally.

[Skully]

Originally Posted by Grahamru

One last question for those of you out there, with ADD, is it common to have other conditions?

Yes it is very common with ADHD. I also have bipolar II and many others have other forms of mental health. I am sorry I can't help you with all the traveling you do. I just advise you to get to a doctor as soon as your schedule allows.

[Merlin]

I have bipolar II and PTSD and I am currently being assessed for ADHD (inattentive type.)
My assessment is on Jan 10th. I hope that you can book one soon. I also recommend going tough a pdoc that is experienced in ADHD assessment as my regular pdoc chose to refer me to a pdoc with experience in the area.

[Grahamru]

Thank you all for your responses.

[kitty1963]

I have schizoaffective disorder with bipolar tendencies and ADHD, also being evaluated for PTSD. My psychiatrist prescribed me adderall for the adhd. It was like being on a whole bunch of coffee. Good luck in your search.