Adult ADHD, Is it real?

[Superworried91]

Hello,

Sort of looking at starting a bit of a discussion here rather than posting a question.

I recently went to my doctor for a routine ailment and he questioned whether I had ever been assessed for ADHD given some traits he noticed during our many consultations over the years. Long story short I went to a psychiatrist and got a definitive diagnosis of ADHD and began taking dexamphetamine (dexedrine i believe is the US "version"). Although I must say I have noticed a dramatic increase in almost every aspect of my life, I cannot help but think anyone would achieve this by taking, what is essentially, a weaker form of an illegal street drug.

I am 21, I have had 14 jobs in 4 years, started 5 degrees (finished none), end relationships on a whim, impulsive, restless - so i guess I fit the bill. However could this just be a personality trait?

Just looking for other opinions on the validity of an adult ADHD diagnosis and whether this is a common "feeling" to have for the newly diagnosed.

[CelticGirl873]

I am an 18 year old who also has ADHD and no I don't think what your feeling is wrong at all. I was diagnosed when I was in elementary school so I was basically a robot in the feelings department because I had no idea what was going on. Seriously, it wasn't until around this time that I am actually truly comfortable with saying that I have ADHD. Plus, your ADHD is kinda your personality. You have acted the way you are now without knowing so why would you stop being who you are cause you know something about yourself that you didn't before

[fjbebo]

Thank you Sandman, I did not think about the different levels and distractions one could have and why meds are important. So I guess mindfulness combined with medication should be helpful. Best wishes, Fj

[Sandman2]

    There is a huge chemical difference in the body between someone with ADHD taking a stimulant medication and someone who does not have ADHD taking the same med.   That is why it is legal for someone diagnosed with ADHD to get the medication (and it is medication) to help their concentration problems,etc., and why it is illegal for a person without ADHD to get the stimulants to get high.
   Take the time to read this link to a site that explains more about adult ADHD.  I think that it will ease your feeling of unease.  It is really important to understand what ADHD had done/is doing to you.  As Fjbebo suggests, it is something that can be overcome - but to do that, you gotta understand it.  So check out this link - http://www.help4adhd.org/en/treatment/guides/WWK9
   and please post if you have any questions.  Best wishes.

[Sandman2]

   Thanks for you comment.  You are correct in what you mention as ways to deal with ADHD.  The problem is that all people are different and have different levels of ADHD and also different distractions during the day.  Thus while many adults are able to get off meds or go on a use at needed basis, some can't.  Thus, I respectfully disagree with your last statement about letting these meds contaminate you.

[fjbebo]

Hi. I know someone, with adult  who has been on adderal for over 10 years. Despite which he tends to procrastiate, be forgetful and tends to leave many a project unfinished.His wife reduced his dosage and gave him a structured disciplined routine, and helped him practice mindfulness. Set up systems to follow, lists to be ticked off and removed distractions of television. even the phone calls are disrupting, and he returns all the calls/texts at a designated time.
I would say this has brought about a lot of change in him. He has over the last 5 years got into a very top position at his place of work, and the medication has since been totally weaned off.
I would suggest you too bring a structure to your life. Exercise and meditation are a must, and stick to the schedule. Plan plan plan. Put down things in a diary neatly. Be focused and DO NOT MULTI TASK.
Help yourself and you will not need to have medication/drugs contaminate you.
You are young, You can address this. And I wish you all the very best. fj