that sounds like social anxiety. Not wanting to talk in front of a lot of people. Scared of saying something stupid. Social anxiety.

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Well, I wouldn't rule out ADHD yet! Getting stressed out when having to attend large social gatherings is difficult for a lot of ADHd adults. Many of our group have a history of being 'shunned' by our peers in the past (just go and read some of the posts in the parenting section- heartbreaking tales of friendless kids). When you were not part of a group because you were considered socially awkward as a kid can leave many of us with battered self-esteem. Just the thought of having to go back into a large group of people to try and be the social butterfly can be troubling.

I personally don't have issues with socializing with large groups of people even if I'm just meeting them for the first time. On the other hand, the noise level that tends to accompany those kinds of gatherings can leave me feeling stressed and anxious just thinking about it!!! All the conversations going on around me is like standing in a room full of TVs that are all turned on different stations. It stresses me out.

Talk to your doctor and see what advice he can give you. He may be able to diagnose you himself since many of them are starting to learn about adult ADHD>

Also, I've read here and there where some of the drug companies do have some programs set up for people in need of meds who are struggling financially. I'm not sure how much of a break they can give on the drugs but it is possible. I think it involves getting your doctor to fill out some forms for them but of course all this hinges on whether or not you are in fact ADHD. Get a professional opinion!

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Look up local chapters of the following:

- State disability services office. - Public Law Resource Center that does civil rights advocacy work. - Disability advocacy network groups.

Between these folks, you should be able to access good referrals. They may even be able to hook you up with financial assistance. http://askdreric-schoolpsychologist.blogspot.com/

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Thank you all so much for your comments and advice. I"ve recently contacted a psychologist in my area that takes sliding scale, so I will see what develops with that. I'd like to find out what's going on with me because I am so sure that I have ADD or social anxiety. I'll let you all know the results. I love this forum.

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just get a listing of doctors and call. If you have no insurance, they may work something out where your paying something reasonable. I know like most medical areas its hard even with insurance to find the right doctor and get in. But I have some friends laid off, etc. that ended up getting treatment without insurance. Some doctors may not accept the insurance you have, but some patients still keep going, because it is still affordable and not wanting to switch.

Just call the worst they can say is no.

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