What? ADD? Me? No one would ever believe it!

[jackwilliambell]

My life has seen fit to remind me recently that I am probably ADD. Most specifically in the sense that ADD (of the type I probably have) has genetic origins. Plus my boss has suggested I get evaluated for it by a professional.

After discussing this with scarlettina I took an ADD quiz she found. Results below. Are you surprised?

Comments

[joycemocha]

ADHD and Asperger's can have similar symptomology. I'd be concerned because you're getting pressure from a boss, myself--it might be worth it to talk to someone knowledgeable just to get them off your back. It also would be worth it to untangle just which it is, or if it's both (which is rare but possible).

FWIW, most of the diagnostics for both ADHD and autism are based on behavioral rating scales.

[jackwilliambell]

I'm nearly certain I don't have Aspergers. I am pretty high functioning if I am. Of course, I am high functioning largely out of coping strategies and learned behavior patterns; replacing what comes naturally for most people with rote responses and a lifetime of observing cause and effect.

For example: I am much better at interpreting facial expressions than when I was younger. When I remember to look, that is.

Another example: I am capable of acting as if I am an extravert for a few hours at a time. It is largely an act, and one I find very wearing. But I can do it.

[mcjulie]

If you have insurance that covers it, you might as well talk to a professional.

Medication always has side effects. I would tend to resist medication for a chronic condition if other treatments or therapies will work. But that's completely up to you. What problem are you trying to solve?

Also, a caveat: somebody said that the "effects of medication go away when you stop taking them" -- that may be true for the stimulant class typically prescribed for ADHD, but SSRI class antidepressants can have effects that linger for a long time after you stop taking them. I believe these lingering effects are minor, but still.

[jackwilliambell]

What problem are you trying to solve?

That's the thing, isn't it? I mean, yes, the social stuff causes me problems in my daily life. Certainly it affects my work life. But is it really something I need to 'fix'? Am I broken, or just different?

[holyoutlaw]

Whether I've been self-medicating (these days, with fish oil pills) or on prescribed medications, there's always a period when I realize "I'm still me."

[jackwilliambell]

OOOH!!! Check your epistemology stickers! Are you really still 'you' or are you a new 'you' that can't tell the difference because it is no longer the old 'you'? It's enough to make you sheepish...