Reply To: Need Help, do I actually have ADD or is it in my head?

[That Guy with ADHD]

Hi rixina1000,
If those are your symtoms we have a lot in common. Based on the description of what you are facing it would seem as if you could have ADHD but it would be a good idea to get a formal diagnosis. Rick Green mentioned that there are other disorders that have similar symtoms so it’s best to be sure before seeking treatment. Is ADHD in your head? Absolutely! That’s the problem. We don’t think like others do. It does take time and effort to develope strategies that will work for you. Some take medication, others change their diet, throw in some councilling and meditation… Or maybe a combination of them. I personally haven’t responded to stimulant therapy and a change in diet didn’t seem to do much for me but others have found it to be helpful. I have found CBT helpful but often lose track of what I learned and fall back into old habits. I am currently being treated for depression which for many seems to go hand in hand with ADHD. I don’t know if it’s because I have a low self esteem but CBT has helped with that. And fatigue? I have that in spades! I was diagnosed with Hyper-somnolence so I am always tired regardless of the quality and quantity of sleep I get.

I managed to get through two university degrees but struggled every day. That was back in the eighties. I always thought that I was different. At first I thought everyone was like this but as I got older I was sure that I had a brain tumor or something. I couldn’t figure out what was wrong with me until I happened to hear a radio interview where both the person being interviewed and the interviewer had ADHD and described their symptoms. I replayed the article over and over because I couldn’t believe that I was not alone and that others felt the same way I did. I’ve since joined my local ADHD support group which has made a big difference in my life.

Here in the forum you will find many brilliant people who have shared their thoughts and insights into their condition. The website also has great blog entries from Rick as well as helpful videos (some are free and other longer ones are for sale). I lurk in the forums regularly and have learned a lot. Last year when I first thought I had ADHD I found this sight to be my biggest source of decent information. I was finally diagnosed this month but have already gone through some treatment with the
Psychiatrist who is treating my Hyper-somnolence.

I hope you find the material helpful as I did.

Best regards

Richard
AKA That Guy with ADHD

And no, I an not affiliated with this site. Just a big fan.

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