Expert: Dr Billy Levin - 12/27/2009

Question

I am a 57 year old male who has never been tested / diagnosed with ADD, and yet for most of my teen & adult life, I've been variously told "You don't listen!" My short term memory is probably below par, contributing greatly to my ability to excel academically. Yet I am considered to be intelligent, sensitive to loud activities, and quiet.

One thing I've continuously noted is that people often have to repeat things to me, especially when working in a fast paced environment. I've also noticed that when I'm looking directly AT the speaker, it's much easier for me to pick up immediately on what's being said.This "disconnect" happens frequently, perhaps on a daily basis.

In groups, I've been told I have trouble. One on one, less of a problem. I'm a chef by profession and have a two year degree in an unrelated field.

Does this sound like an auditory ADD disorder?


Answer
There is no "auditory ADD disorder"! It is like suggesting a coughing Pneumonia. As ADD is to some degree an immaturity of the left hemisphere of the brain, and one of the main functions of this hemisphere is auditory perception. Thus there is often an auditory imperception as one of the symptoms of ADD/ADHD. Your description certainly suggests you should be evaluated for ADD/ADHD even at this age. It is never too late to benefit from correct effective and safe  medical treatment.


ps my delay in answering was because I was away on holiday and I did notify "all experts" about this. It was obviously not publishrd!