Hi All,

I have had ADD or ADHD for as long as I can remember but like most adults, didn't have a name for it and went through life as an intelligent 'underachiever' along with all the other problems.

I was diagnosed by my family doctor a few years ago but did not pursue any treatment or meds at that time. I quit smoking a couple of years ago however and my symptoms have appeared to have increased since doing so and I (and certainly my wife) am more aware of their existence now and how they affect my daily life. Now 43, I recently visited my doctor who suggested I think about meds. Unfortunately, I live in Toronto where there are apparently only two specialists who deal with adult ADD/ADHD. My doctor told me getting an appointment for specific diagnosis/treatment is really hard in this city. I said I would go away and do some research and go back and see my doctor once I had gained more knowledge. Obviously the internet has helped greatly but I do not want to 'self diagnose' too much.

From what I can gather, I have 'typical' ADHD symptoms; easily distracted, can't keep still (hyperactive), daydream a lot, can't get through a magazine article or book unless its REALLY interesting, not a good listener, however I can be very organized and hyperfocused on certain things to the point of OCD type behavior (cleaning the house, putting things away), but put a large project in front of me to do at work and I 'blank' out and/or lose interest. It is also very hard for me not to interrupt during conversations or business meetings. Based on what I've read by ADD 'expert' Dr Amen, it would appear I have something along the lines of what he calls "Overfocused - ADD' but clearly with some of the 'classic' ADD/HD symptoms.

I now feel a bit confused as to what my 'next steps' should be especially as seeing someone in Toronto is difficult. How much can my doctor help? Is cognitive behavioral therapy useful? Can anyone in Toronto area shed some light?

Much appreciated and hope yo managed to read this without getting bored...sorry.

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