Re: Emotional Torment Over Seeking a Real Diagnosis

[Anonymous]

If you’re having serious doubts, find a new doc!

I can relate to your frustration:

Several years ago, I went into a depression after experiencing being a “failure” in college (a lot of it due to undiagnosed ADD). No in my family, nor my best friend believed I was depressed, except my counselor, and I lucked out with a good doctor. (Neither of them believed I had ADD, either, adding to the sting.) However, two counselors that I had seen in treatment for the depression, immediately dismissed my interest in getting any information about ADD and possible diagnosis. The first said he “could just tell that I didn’t have it”, while the second wouldn’t even consider it unless I could find my kindergarten records. I was defeated by their ludicrous diagnostic methods and being that I have add, not surprisingly put off searching for those records. 3 years later and I find out they’re destroyed. Honestly, ADD&Loving It?! convinced me to try again. I was only diagnosed a few weeks ago by a psychologist, who asked thorough questions. He really took the time to investigate my answers further, and I’m glad I was placed with him.

However, he needed to refer me to a psychiatrist for the medication, and I she asked me the same questions but without the same interest. So, she leans on the cautious side of diagnosis, because she’s not “convinced” all the way. Of course, it takes time to get a definite diagnosis, but from this whole experience, I realize that A lot of doctors (my psychiatrist) want to see clear cut symptoms right away, rather than observe and question the way a psychologist would to understand you. I have a couple of doubts about her, but I’ll determine whether to switch doctors after our second visit. It’s really hard to get a doctor you can connect with, who will want to help you. Be Vigilant! I waited years and I’m on the verge of flunking out of school, again, and after all this I’m determined to find a doctor I can connect with. It’s so hard when there’s so many myths about ADD, to get real help.

If your doctor’s not listening to you, seek a new one. I’ve had so many bad experiences with doctors of all types, but for something like this don’t give up until you get real answers/evaluation. Ask for a referral to a counselor or psychiatrist, who can diagnose ADD. My physician didn’t question my concerns, she sent me the referral (and gave me a thyroid blood test, which checked out fine). Good luck to you.

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