Saudade, you last bit is actually why I would really prefer a full neuropsych assessment. But, I found a place that can get me in next week for an initial assessment. And I bet it’s going to be going through a checklist. I think I’m going to go with that, while also putting myself on wait lists for full a full assessment. That will probably take months to get.
1. I had the full testing done, and my insurance covered it.
2. I don’t currently take meds for reasons having to do with my job, but I did have about 6 months of counseling with a focus on ADHd symptom management and executive function stuff, and it was VERY helpful. I may take meds in the future (except local shortages make it a nightmare to find any), but the counseling has been amazing for my productivity.
So I had a full workup, but they thought I just had unrelated memory problems and anxiety because I had been able to get through college and grad school (with a lot of struggle with time management). So they called it ADHD-NOS in case my psych wanted to try meds. Then I got pregnant and didn't pursue it. Then a year ago I was talking to my primary NP about my antidepressants and symptoms, and she was like, "Have you considered you might have undiagnosed ADHD?" She started me on methylphenidate, which has helped a lot. So I had a full workup that didn't really pan out and then got meds just based on my recounting of symptoms and history. 🤷♀️
See I think my depression symptoms may actually be ADHD then I think it's probably both then I just spend the day overthinking and I don't do anything else. I also worry about adhd meds with high blood pressure bc I have that too.
It's super common for women to have symptoms of anxiety and depression that are from dealing with unmedicated ADHD. Tons of information on that if you Google. I know there are non-stimulant options, and if the hypertension is managed, stimulants could be an option. Obviously up to your doctor though.
Saudade, that person coming in saying they thought they had it was totally me lol. Although I watched a lot of videos and read a lot of articles first. And my brother and sister were both diagnosed (sister diagnosed in university when her coping mechanisms collapsed under the weight of her extremely tough program requirements). And my dad was also diagnosed back when my brother got diagnosed. My GP definitely said if she didn't know me and my family history better she would 💯 refer me, but felt comfortable making the diagnosis based on knowing me for 8 years, the questionnaire results, family history etc. I may seek a full assessment at some point anyway, just to try and understand the specifics of my exact version of ADHD, and maybe contact a therapist who can specialize in helping me get the most out of my brain. But that would definitely have to be private and I don't know how much my benefits cover.
Post by litskispeciality on Apr 19, 2024 13:21:19 GMT -5
I don't have anything to add, but want to thank everyone for their honesty. I have my physical next month and plan to ask the NP if they have recommendations about testing. I feel this thread so hard. I passively mentioned to a counselor as well "I think I have undiagnosed ADHD" and their eyes lit up probably more than they should. Never thought to ask them for a recommendation for testing, but probably could circle back if needed.
I've always been weary of the stimulants as I'm quite caffeine sensitive. Only do up to 1 cup of coffee per day (Monday - Thursday) and have to stop by 12 PM or I can't sleep enough for work the next day. Good to hear there are alternates that may not make you so wired.
I don't have anything to add, but want to thank everyone for their honesty. I have my physical next month and plan to ask the NP if they have recommendations about testing. I feel this thread so hard. I passively mentioned to a counselor as well "I think I have undiagnosed ADHD" and their eyes lit up probably more than they should. Never thought to ask them for a recommendation for testing, but probably could circle back if needed.
I've always been weary of the stimulants as I'm quite caffeine sensitive. Only do up to 1 cup of coffee per day (Monday - Thursday) and have to stop by 12 PM or I can't sleep enough for work the next day. Good to hear there are alternates that may not make you so wired.
Wishing everyone luck and hopefully relief.
I am the exact same way with coffee, and FYI Adderall is great for me - I feel less spastic and wired on it. Worth trying a few things and seeing what works for you
It has just occurred to me that back in the 90s, I took ephedrine for weight loss (which is now banned). At the time, I did notice it seemed to help me focus, and just laughed about that.
See also caffeine and nicotine addiction. The later is just gum now, and also probably as much oral stimming as nicotine.
Saudade, that person coming in saying they thought they had it was totally me lol. Although I watched a lot of videos and read a lot of articles first. And my brother and sister were both diagnosed (sister diagnosed in university when her coping mechanisms collapsed under the weight of her extremely tough program requirements). And my dad was also diagnosed back when my brother got diagnosed. My GP definitely said if she didn't know me and my family history better she would 💯 refer me, but felt comfortable making the diagnosis based on knowing me for 8 years, the questionnaire results, family history etc. I may seek a full assessment at some point anyway, just to try and understand the specifics of my exact version of ADHD, and maybe contact a therapist who can specialize in helping me get the most out of my brain. But that would definitely have to be private and I don't know how much my benefits cover.
Oh I completely agree. And I was that person too 🤣🤣
I also don’t like that this is the way because in my area neuropsych testing has close to a 2 year waitlist.
I also don’t know what is the better option. I think you lay out a good point where your GP knew you really well. Often times I have people come in and I’ve never seen them before. 🤷♀️
Also including the extreme frustrations with women being vastly under diagnosed and then expected to manage ALL of this
It has just occurred to me that back in the 90s, I took ephedrine for weight loss (which is now banned). At the time, I did notice it seemed to help me focus, and just laughed about that.
See also caffeine and nicotine addiction. The later is just gum now, and also probably as much oral stimming as nicotine.
When I was not taking my meds I used WAY more caffeine and nicotine gum to get through the day.
When I’m taking my meds I need very little caffeine and zero nicotine gum. I’m sure my dentist is happier 🤣
It has just occurred to me that back in the 90s, I took ephedrine for weight loss (which is now banned). At the time, I did notice it seemed to help me focus, and just laughed about that.
See also caffeine and nicotine addiction. The later is just gum now, and also probably as much oral stimming as nicotine.
When I was not taking my meds I used WAY more caffeine and nicotine gum to get through the day.
When I’m taking my meds I need very little caffeine and zero nicotine gum. I’m sure my dentist is happier 🤣
OMG.. I so want to get off the nicotine gum. Like it really bothers me I was never able to ween myself off it. Every one of my doctors is just so happy that it’s not other sources of nicotine, so no one really cares.
I have a screening appointment next Wednesday. And it’s so weird, after years of “I’m fine, dammit!! I don’t need anything!!” I’m really starting to see the upsides.