I'm 58, recently diagnosed and been taking Ritalin for about 3 weeks. I don't think my personality has changed but I am definitely IN THE MOMENT now - it's easier to focus, to listen, to block out distractions, to stay on task and to walk away from conversations without worrying that I might have missed something important. Y'know, it's hard to describe clarity... You'll like it.

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Before you start worrying about how ADHD medication will affect you, you should get an Accurate ADHD diagnosis. Ask around to see if anyone you know has a recommendation for a medical professional that might help you.

There are a wide variety of ADHD drugs out there. Side effects vary from person to person, but once you find the right ADHD medication, you should feel a whole lot better. It may take a little trial and error to get the dosage correct, so be patient and work closely with your doctor until you feel the way you always hoped you'd feel.

In the meantime, here is some reading that might help you prepare yourself.

Adult ADHD Diagnosis Information

ADHD Medication: Say No to Side Effects

Women and ADHD

Good luck, Dena

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I went to a therapist yesterday, because I could not wait to be seen. The therapist works in the same office as the psychiatrist, who's appt has now been moved to the 16th. She completed a social history. Her preliminary diagnosis was depression, social anxiety disorder, OCD tendencies, and ADD tendencies. She stated that she would reserve her full judgement until she conferred with the psychiatrist.

I have no clue what to even think. 4 possible disorders makes me seem so psycho. All I want from therapy is to be able to keep my house clean, keep my affairs in order, and finish college. My mind is racing with the implications of 4 possible disorders. What makes it so weird is that when I told her my story, she pointed out how all of my behavioral oddities were symptoms. And after researching it extensively, I kind of agree with her. I totally did not know thce rehearsing, reliving, and repeating conversations in my head was a symptom of OCD. I spend about 30 minutes of every hour I am awake doing it, which I previously attributed it the the racing thoughts of ADD. Thanks for your replies. I will give an update after my psychiatrist visit.

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Kristy I understand very well what you were going through.

I sent a message to Bryan Hutchinson just now about "my life" but I am not sure it went through. If you find it please look at it and see the similarities with your situation.

Excuse me if my English is not Shakespear English (it is not my Mother Language).

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your habits sound familiar; when I was diagnosed (Feb'09) it was like a huge wait was lifted and now have whole new life developing strategies for the behaviors. plus neurofeedback. NOT taking Ritalin; instead taking suplements l-pyroglutamic acid (or could substitute Piracetam); DMAE; Vit B Power Complex, Vit C, Naicin......they work! also TMG or SAMe help as well. If you have not found/read it yet Dr Amens' Book "Healing ADD" is very illuminating/helpful (he has 6 chilren & awife who are ADD); also K.Kelly & P. Ramundo's "You Mean I;m Not Lazy, Stupid, or Crazy?!" is very good as well[get the revised edition] be well & prosper

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