AboutSijka Expertise I was diagnosed (finally) with A.D.D.at the age of 38. I always knew there was something not connecting in my brain, but little was known when I was growing up about A.D.D.
I know how hard it is to explain to others about your "brain patterns" and habits.
I know how hard it is to keep things in order and to find those "IMPORTANT" papers you know you just had in your hands and now they are missing--right into thin air. I've been there and am still there!
Experience I studied, attended seminars with the experts, worked with psychologists and doctors to become the only "informed teacher" in a school district.I worked with teachers and parents to understand the mind patterning and the options of medication and behavioral patterning.
I also have worked with adults on pstructuring their lives to assist in development of routine organization (I must admit that I am a lot better with others than myself!!)
I am "pro" medication-but NOT the generic. For adults there are several meds that can be used and combinations that work well.
I have been away from working with children for 12 years but am able to come up with strategies and resources for you. .
Organizations
Publications "Cooperative Learning" (johnson and Johnson Method) in Exceptional Children in early 80's.
Did research on "hooked-On-Phonics" before "they" had any themselves!
Education/Credentials I have a Bachelors in Speech Path and Audiology
A Masters in Educational Psychology and Counseling.
I taught a total of 27 years-regular ed., spec. ed., administration, consultant and advocate for children and adults with ADD.
Awards and Honors I am still optimistic that one day I WILL BE ORGANIZED!!
Expert: Sijka Date: 6/27/2008 Subject: My ADD and fatigue are threatening my life
Question If I can't get my act together soon I'm going to lose my home, health
insurance,and life. But nothing I do is ever enough, no matter what
medications, therapy, or puny successes. I think my ADD is a terminal illness,
especially of Social Security persists in refusing to see it. To all you people
with worse disabilities, less advantaged backgrounds, etc. who do so much
more, I agree I'm inadequate but not deliberately.
Answer Hello,
You didn't give me much info to go on--I have a few questions?
1. Have you been diagnosed as having ADD?
2. If yes. by whom?
3. Are you under any medical treatment for ADD?
4. If so, what are you taking?
5. Do you work? What are your responsibilities?
6. How do you interact with your friends, people in general?
7. Why do you think you are inadequate? YOU ARE NOT!!! You may not have the information you need to get the help you deserve.
Social Security has a tough time admitting that ADD is a disabling illness. It takes several doctors/specialists/psychiatrists/psychologists and lots of "medication trials" for them to see that some ADD people are not able to function "fully" in life. This does not mean they are "disabled" only impaired for part of the time (If you find the right medication and treatment).
Here are some of the websites you can go to for information-
Screening and info:
I don't want to "flood" you with information so please feel very free to contact me again. (It took trials on 55 different medications to find the one that works the best-a LONG 35 yr. struggle--Don't give up!!)
I hope this helps.
Sijka
