I went for my first visit with the doctor to be evaluated for ADD. After the initial consultation the dr says that it could be a mood disorder and/or perimenopause and/or ADD. Then I took a test on a computer and then the MMPI(?) questionairre. My symptoms could be alleviated by perhaps just an adjustment to my antidepressant (wouldn't that be great?)
Anyone take the computer test? A series of letters are flashed on the screen and you are instructed to click after every letter except X and do this for about 15 minutes. The letters flashed one at a time sometimes in rapid succession and sometimes in slow succession.
I usually reacted too quickly and clicked on Xs when it went fast but often recognized them in time when it slowed down. But I was able to focus for the entire 15 minutes and click on all the other letters. I go on Thursdays for the results.
So does this mean I do NOT have a problem with attentiveness?
IF you can afford it, I would take an actual clinical test. I took one at college so it was half price, but they can run about 3,000 ... They tell you lots about yourself -- IQ, etc and then also if you really have adhd (they'll probably tell you wahat you do have, too, if it's not adhd) ... They do a clinical interview, fun little tests ... probably take 6 hours done over 2 days or so ... I mean, if you can afford that, just try the meds. If you're not adhd and were bipolar for instance, you would know. Or, perhaps try something like wellbutrin xl which can be used for adhd and depression :) prozac is sometimes used for adhd too and for things like the unhappiness surrounding periods ... gotta love being a womaon :)Test results show I do have a significant problem with attentiveness and the questionaire showed I have depression and anxiety.
Next stop, family doctor to check bloodwork and such to determine if there are any physical factors in play.
At least I'm trying to make things better. I feel that I have at least some control over my problem and am trying to improve it. That's certainly better than whining and moaning and doing nothing.
I couldn't agree with you more! just make sure that when you find out what the problem is you try to stay as action-oriented as possible. my mom and i both have "issues" and i am trying to work on them, while she prefers to take meds and hope that will do it all (having issues gives you a lot to talk about, perhaps that's why she likes keeping them around -- i have a theory that most people w/ depressionetc like it for a little bit -- not in a bad way, but just b/c it's natural to want attention ... i do suggest getting that attention in a more healthy way though) .... Remember that meds only do part of the work and that you have to do about 90% of it .. but, you cna do it :) if you have the courage to get help, you have the courage to get better :) take care!