[MountainDeW060]

I don't really have a handle on what I need to do with my life. I am 22, almost 23, I am unemployed and I really have no plans for the future. I have recently taken some online tests for ADD and ADHD and I think I am not so hyper as I am unable to concentrate on any one task for a long period of time. Mundane tasks that are easy, like computer work at a job, will cause me to get out of my chair and pace. I can't read a book without my mind wandering. I will turn the page of a book and only remember what I was thinking not the words on the page. Sorry for rambling, I really want information on the best person to talk to about this situation I'm in. A doctor, Psychiatrist, who? Will medication help me get a job? Will medication help me keep a job? What should I do first see a doc or get a job, please help. Also I am trying to quit drinking, and now do so only occasionally. Is it common to drink a lot with people who have ADD?

[Bloo]

First off, find a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). They can diagnose ADD but cannot prescribe meds. You need to talk to a professional (and yes, it sounds like ADD). If the LCSW feels you need to see a psychiatrist or psychologist, they'll refer you. Luckily my LCSW works in conjunction with two psychiatrists if I ever need more help.

Please get to the library and check out Driven To Distraction by Drs. Hallowell and Ratey. They also wrote Answers to Distraction and Delivered from Distraction. If you can afford one of those get "Answers." These books are awesome! If you are ADD you'll read them and think, "Whoa, how do they know me?"

ADDers can have addictive personalities. According to the above books, we're more likely to abuse drugs, alcohol, smoke, self-medicate. I'm one of the lucky ones; I don't like alcohol (except a salty margarita!) but I do self-medicate with shopping, make-up in particular.

As for your work life, it would be a great idea to find an ADD coach and/or a career counselor. Find out what your passions are, what your talents are, and tailor your job search. Although I've been a gov't employee for almost 20 years I just "fell" into this due to my dad working for the gov't. I know I'd be great in sales though. I'm trying to work through the fear of finding another job that would better suit my personality and talents.

Meds might help you keep a job. I know taking wellbutrin and prozac for depression really helped me out. I'm still jittery at times though. One thing that really helps is exercise. You might find you like walking, running, lifting weights, anything to get the excess energy out of your system. I'm learning to harness the energy; instead of cruising the internet I'm interacting more with people I'm comfortable with (friends from church), doing more housework, etc.

Please keep us posted and feel free to ask more questions .

[MountainDeW060]

Hmm LCSW. OK, thanks, also do you know where I might find one of these. Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate all the answers, and book ideas as well. Another thing I was thinking about this morning is I can't speak my ideas clearly, and I take long pauses in the middle of my speech. I know what I want to say but the words are missing. The same applies to listening I keep asking what, what, what did you say. Basically I guess I'm spaced out or something. Also I've always wondered what is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

[Bloo]

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor. They can prescribe medication. A Psychologist is a PhD and cannot prescribe meds.

I don't know where you live so I can't help with what social services are available. If you're a college student there's somebody on staff who can point you in the right direction. Otherwise just start asking around for referals and recommendations. I got lucky; a work friend pointed me to a great LCSW. I was depressed and finally took action. Often depression is an offshoot of undiagnosed ADD...go fig!

[littlemissjess]

I saw a LCSW and I was just diagnosed about a month and a half ago. But this is my tricky part (don't know if it will be the same for you) but for me to see a doctor that can prescribe, the soonest I can get in is July!!!

But try a LCSW, they're huge help to me. Help me plan, sort out problems, i love mine -- she's a sweetie.

[MountainDeW060]

I actually set up a meeting with a therapist/ psychoanalyst. I'm not sure what his exact designation is as I have not yet spoken to him. I browsed his web site briefly and he appears to have substantial credentials. I am hoping that I will have some success with this meeting. I will let you all know how it goes. Thanks again for the feedback.