About a year ago I made the decision to go to college in pursuit of a new career in social work. I currently hold associates and bachelor degrees in unrelated fields. I felt the maturity and motivation I had at age 46 would make a difference in my ability to learn. You see, I did not do well with my first experience with college.
I soon found that I was struggling with the same learning issues now that I had then. Most specifically, I found it very difficult to focus for any length of time on my studies. I also found that I had a hard time with tests and research papers. Interestingly, I excelled in content when it came to writing self reflection papers. So far I have managed to get by, except for one very crucial class.
I came across some some info on adult adhd while doing research for a paper. I identified so strongly with what was said, I decided to take the online tests. I was skeptical as I am about this being on the web. However, my identification with the questions got me thinking about this. I started getting some gut reactions to the information. Bottom line, the information was describing my life.
Yesterday I was given my diagnosis by a psychologist in our area who specializes in ADHD. He said that I am in the 99th percentile. He is recommending to my physician a combo of Wellbutrin and Zoloft. My spouse and I will also be attending behavioral sessions with him.
Though I have suspected this for some months, I am still numb from the diagnosis. I am constantly reflecting on past events in my life and linking this to them. I feel a combination of relief in knowing what has been holding me back and anger of not knowing about this sooner. I am also dealing with the label of being a person who has ADHD. I am sure as the treatments begin, I will do much better.
There is one other component. Though the changes WILL be positive, I am concerned how it will affect me and my relationships with my family and friends. I say this confident in knowing that there will be changes in me.
I have started reading this forum recently and appreciate the support and suggestions from its members. Thank you.
Rich
Good for you and by the way social work field is rewarding but the pay is not the best. It is what I do and sometimes my husband freaks because sometimes I am in bad nieghborhoods or have delt with people who can loose it and it scares him. Actually my office is in a bad area three weeks ago my liscense plate was stolen, two weeks ago there was a shooting and last week another in brood daylight, In front of our office, i was on a homevisit at the time. I do love what I do however.Some of my friends don't like being around me when I'm on ritalin because I'm different, I'm not as fun, I'm focused and I care about getting things done.rfishe-I'm new to this too! I have been on Strattera 3 weeks now and it's going well. I can finally keep focused on my work. I look back on my life and school also and wish I had this help back then. I am a year younger than you.
I wish you the best and remember if the meds aren't doing the job, there are others that will. Good luck!!! Paula