Expert: Christine D. DeLoatch, MA CCC-SLP - 9/6/2008

Question
I've always had a problem with procrastination, organization, and completing tasks. I got through school only because I am smart (in the high-IQ sense). I currently am having major difficulties with my current job. It is not an extremely difficult job (at least, I KNOW that I am intelligent and that it should not be beyond my capabilities), but I have trouble getting started, trouble staying focused, and trouble knowing when to stop (the point of "good enough").

Some months ago I read that ADD/ADHD is often not diagnosed in adults, realized that I fit some of the symptoms (interrupting people, etc.), and decided to look into it.

Today Google helped me find a couple of online self-tests. The one at http://psychcentral.com/addquiz.htm gave me a score of 54 (moderate ADHD likely). A test at http://www.oneaddplace.com gave me a score of 21 (it is likely I have ADD), and their sub-type test gave me results of Over-focused ADD, Temporal Lobe ADD, Limbic ADD, and Ring of Fire ADD. I've never even heard of those. Naturally I don't really trust computer diagnoses or remote diagnoses, but they've given me reason to think that ADD is a possibility.

So my question is: what is the next step? I don't know what to do. How do I get myself diagnosed for real? I relocated for my job last year and don't even have a primary care physician yet. Do I need to find an ADD specialist, or should I search more broadly to check out other possibilities?

Please let me know if you need any further information from me. Thank you so much for your help.

Answer
Dear Gina,

I'm terribly sorry that your message go lost.  I am so glad you asked me your question.  

The first decision you need to make is whether or not you want to or need to see a psychologist or a psychiatrist.  If you are considering medication to treat your challenges, then a psychiatrist is who you need to discuss this with.  

If not, then a psychologist will do.  Make sure it is someone that believes in Adult ADHD and has some background in diagnosis - ask questions like how many patients have you treated or what strategies do you find work best. If the answers are not to you liking look somewhere else.  

You need someone who is ADHD friendly.  If you have limited funds  or do not have insurance, you may want to start with a psychologist.  Their prices will be more affordable.  

I do recommend the book Change Your Brain, Change your life - that discusses those sub-areas like Temporal lobe ADD and Limbic ADD.  I also recommend Healing ADD also by Dr. Daniel Amen.  I just got a glimpse of him on a television special - recounting much of what is in the book.  

Good Luck and Many Blessings.  

Please write me if you have any additional questions.  I have adjusted my firewall.  

Christine