The Forums › Forums › The Workplace › Lost/Losing My Job › Not yet lost my job, but will get there.. › Reply To: Not yet lost my job, but will get there..
1) You need to get a diagnosis. It might not be ADD, especially if your problems started in adulthood, or after whatever caused the PTSD.
2) Why did you interview for a teaching position? It seems like a step down from being a surgeon. Is it because you are finding your work too stressful and need a change? Or is it because you really want to teach?
3) What makes you think no one will ever take your condition seriously? ADHD/ADD is a recognized disability in most parts of the world now. There are many hold outs in the medical community who still refuse to believe, but it should be possible to find some who will take it seriously.
4) Why would you want to be normal?
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You need to reduce your stress level and anxiety as much as possible for starters. Stress, as I’m sure you know as a doctor, has an enormous impact on mental function. Try some relaxation techniques for starters. Maybe see a psychiatrist or counsellor, if you don’t already. Talk to your colleagues and explain what’s happening, if that is possible.
Diet, exercise, sleep, drinking plenty of water etc. is also very important. Again, this is something that you already know.
You could try medication. But you need a proper diagnosis first.
You don’t need to change your whole personality. You just need to learn how to project the right image when necessary. You know people think you are intimidating, loud, in your face etc. So work on not being that way. Make a conscious effort to smile, speak more softly, use more positive language.
Also, don’t assume the world does not like you. We ADDers have a habit of assuming the worst and only seeing the negative side of things. It might not be as bad as you think it is.
Since surgeons are not usually known for their winning personalities and people skills, I would think you would fit right in. Most surgeons I have ever met have been a little quirky, to say the least. But it sounds like maybe you are finding that the job is not a good fit for you, despite having the skill to do it. So it might be best to consider some alternatives. With the training you have there should be lots of options. I’m only guessing, I have no idea.
And I’m out of advice for tonight.
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