Expert: Dr Billy Levin - 11/14/2004

Question
I'm an 18 woman and have for the past couple of years suspected that I may have ADD. All through my life I have wondered why it is I could never ever concentrate on school, retain information I shouldn't be forgetting, meet deadlines, stay focuse do reading, meet curfews, sit still, etc.. but never thought of ADD until last year. One of my best friends has ADHD(a male) and although I can't see the way he acts in myself it inspired me to read up on it and I've been almost in tears reading descriptions of ADD becuase I feel like it was written about me. Every checklist of characterists I have ever read I have been able to relate to almost all of the traits. I am not overly hyperactive, and I do sustain relationships quite well and it does not effect my social life, but when it comes to work, school, etc.. my life is nightmare.      I have always hidden that I have these difficulties as best I can, so noone other then myself seems to recognize them. I told my mom I think I have ADD and she said "maybe very minor but nothing to worry about". Are there different degrees of ADD? Is it possible I have hidden them so well that only I know about them? I don't know for sure I have add, but I would really like to find out because an explanation to why I have not been able to achieve all I can(I know I am capable of good grades, and have no learning disability- I was tested in the 3rd grade because I was so spaced out and it was found I was just as smart but coulnd't focus) would be a welcome relief. Any advice on this you can give me would be great! Thanks!

Answer
Dear Jordyn, From what you describe ,I am sure you have ADHD. It is possible to have it and sometimes it only gets diagnosed as an adult.If you are having problems of any sort related to this conditionn ,see a medical expert.It is not too late. There are different degrees and various types. Your diagnostitian wil fill you in .