[shakespeare47]

I'm 47 and no one has ever suggested it before....

My T made a point of bringing it up last night.... I don't think it's bad enough that I need medication... but, I do show some of the traits....

[Mike_J]

If you have a psychiatrist maybe talk to her/him about it. Sometimes the meds used for ADHD have beneficial side effects.

[shakespeare47]

I had a hard time in college back in the 80's... and sometimes I wonder if it wasn't because of being ADHD... at the time, I just got down on myself for my inability to study.... My dad definitely has some ADHD traits.... and they used to drive me nuts... now, I see myself doing the same things...

[shakespeare47]

Inattention

• Often does not give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
• Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.
• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
• Often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).
• Often has trouble organizing activities.
• Often avoids, dislikes, or doesn't want to do things that take a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).
• Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).
• Is often easily distracted.
• Is often forgetful in daily activities.

• Six or more of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have been present for at least 6 months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

Hyperactivity

• Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.
• Often gets up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.
• Often runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may feel very restless).
• Often has trouble playing or enjoying leisure activities quietly.
• Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor".
• Often talks excessively.

Impulsivity

• Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.
• Often has trouble waiting one's turn.
• Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).

• Some symptoms that cause impairment were present before age 7 years.
• Some impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings (e.g. at school/work and at home).
• There must be clear evidence of significant impairment in social, school, or work functioning.
• The symptoms do not happen only during the course of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Schizophrenia, or other Psychotic Disorder. The symptoms are not better accounted for by another mental disorder (e.g. Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Dissociative Disorder, or a Personality Disorder).

Based on these criteria, three types of ADHD are identified:

• ADHD, Combined Type: if both criteria 1A and 1B are met for the past 6 months
• ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Type: if criterion 1A is met but criterion 1B is not met for the past six months
• ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: if Criterion 1B is met but Criterion 1A is not met for the past six months.

American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Washington, DC, American Psychiatric Association, 2000.

[shakespeare47]

Went over the traits with my T tonight. It seems I am probably diagnosable. Now, should I just work on they symptoms, or should I try drugs?

[shakespeare47]

I got a 46 on this test... Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD) Test - Psych Central

[Open Eyes]

I think it is important you find out because ADHD can be mistaken for NPD and it really is not the same thing. I have read where some who have been treated with medication have said they have noticed how much better they are, even that life slowed down make more sense to them.

[shakespeare47]

The thing is, I really like the way my brain works.

[avlady]

My son found out he has ADHD and was put on meds which help greatly, he's very worried about becoming addicted to them does anyone else here use the meds and are they addicting?

[Miswimmy1]

Originally Posted by avlady

My son found out he has ADHD and was put on meds which help greatly, he's very worried about becoming addicted to them does anyone else here use the meds and are they addicting?

I am on meds and have been on meds for years. I have not found them to be addicting. It is not like they offer some sort of euphoric feeling. They simply make the world less overwhelming.