I don't know if this is related to ADD or not, but not sure where else to ask. If its the wrong place, then I apolagize.
I have the problem where I simply zone out, or daydream excessively. If I'm taking a test I can freeze on a single question while my mind takes a long vacation. I assume this is my subconsious taking over... I don't know how else to describe it. If I'm driving I can stay in the lane, follow the traffic laws and everything and then snap back to reality as if I just woke up and have no memory of driving, just my daydream.
Last night I stopped at a red light, waited for it to turn green, then thought I saw it turn green and ran the light. Luckily it ended up turning green shortly after, but I was already in the middle of the intersection. I saw it turn green after my wife in the passenger seat screamed at me, asking what I was doing. This is the second time I've run a red light like this, so far I've been fortunate and haven't caused any accidents or gotten any tickets. The highway is fine, but in town I tend to have problems. I'll stop at green lights without thinking, and if the area is unfamiliar I've run a stop sign or two only noticing it mid-intersection or just soon enough to scream to a halt.
Driving is the only thing that puts me in harms way, and problem like this are usually rare. Finding out you've just accidentally run a red light though gets the heart pumping and makes me much more alert and keeps my subconscious mind at bay for a while. In fact if I do anything that is high stress, or involves adrenalin I do a much better job, most times flawlessly. I can focus and do the job well. Sitting in a car, or at a desk, my brain does't want to be there and just leaves. It's only low-stress and low-interest situations. I can watch TV, and be fully engaged in the TV. I can read a book and not turn the page for hours.
I find if I bite my lip, pinch my finger, or do something just mildly uncomfortable I can keep my conscious mind active. I'm not talking about cutting myself or physical harm, just slight discomfort. Keeping my conscious mind active doesn't mean that my subconsious isn't knocking the door down either.
I am an Army veteran so have health coverage with the VA. I have called their mental health department twice now and left a message to which has gone ignored. Its actually irresponsibly stressful trying to simply make an appointment with them. Also since they are a mental health clinic what if someone suicidal calls? (If you known someone who can put a boot up their backend its the Sacramento VA in Mather, CA and their number is (916) 366-5420) I have my yearly physical on the 25th so I suppose I could wait until then, but I'd rather address this problem as soon as possible.
If you have any ideas, either possible solutions or a diagnosis I would really appreciate it.