Tony – yes. All of those added up point to ADD, IMO. I feel so badly for you because I had a list similar to yours that I took to my doctor and, thinking back, I was soooo stressed and nervous before I went in. When I came out, what a relief….she agreed with me, I felt like FINALLY I can start again. FINALLY, I can figure this out.
What I guess I don’t understand is what made you afraid of the long term effects on your body? The damage you’re doing to your body with food far outweighs any effects meds would have (the right meds that is). As I said before, stimulants have been used since the 1930s, did you watch the video :
http://totallyadd.com/sponsored-videos-part-1
When I started taking the Ritalin a few weeks ago, I used that initial charge to create better habits. I no longer crave alcohol or pot, which I used to self-medicate because I could NOT figure out why I couldn’t get my life together. All that is changing now. I do have to remind myself to get up and Do something, but I no longer have a zillion excuses in my head as to why I should put it off, but rather get up and do it.
It sounds like you really improved on the meds, so you gotta ask yourself: Did you feel better when you were on the meds or now? What did you accomplish while on the meds compared to now? If you can make a concerted effort, through the meds, adjusting habits (ie, buying hEALTHY foods vs. junk, making lists or whatever to help keep you organized and on track, look ahead instead of behind.), doing things that make you feel good about yourself, ie, taking a walk/exercising, it all adds up to MOVING FORWARD. You have made such great efforts to stay in school, you should not let this ADD thing hold you back any longer.
P.s. I know what you mean about the kids…. I listen to my daughter and actually hear her now, and our relationship is improving and we are growing closer. I ENJOY her more and Its great. Mind, this is kind of a pep talk, meds don’t “cure” you but they sure were a HUGE stepping stone for me. Keep us posted and GOOD LUCK!! 