I have adhd and just starting to talk and ask about it, HELP!!?

Question

About 6-8 months ago, I was diagnosed with adult adhd. In fact my family other than my daughter even knows about it. I've taken courses for medical assisting and had a very hard time focusing and remembering. I hadn't had to do it like that for 20 years so I thought it was just age. I started looking into reasons when my doctor said it was adhd. I wanted some suggestions people are taking for meds that seem to work, I'm taking Adderall, and it seems to make me sluggih,my head feels funny and my left hand has started to tingle that drives me crazy. How long does it take to get its full effect. I love swimming, could that help me focus? Anyone have any suggestions, its a new way of life for me, I'm glad I looked into it myself, just wish I had 30 years ago. Any help would be so appreciated.

Answer 1

My son take 20 mg a day of Adderall but he only takes it during the school year. For about the first two weeks it makes him feel really sluggish and sleepy but it wears off. Now he says it just helps him concentrate and if he doesn't take it he can't keep things organized in his head. I would give it at least a month to let the side effects go away. He lost about 10 lbs when he first took it but the lack of appetite also diminishes.

Answer 2

Any of the amphetamine type drugs (Adderall, Concerta, etc) you should see full results within a week.  They are in your system quickly.  There is also a drug called Strattera, specifically approved for adult ADHD which gradually builds in your system over approximately 6 weeks.  It's not a first line--I'd talk to your doc and let them know how you are feeling with the Adderall...you may need a dose change or to take something else.

Swimming, excersising etc. can help you calm down and focus also, along with eating a healthy diet/plenty of water.  There are lots of things you can do to help control the symptoms of ADHD and just get what you need to get done =).  

You've probably had symptoms of this for years--as a small child.  Now it's all starting to come together.  Take this time to educate yourself and think of it as starting a whole new chapter of your life...good luck to you!!!

Answer 3

why not try talking to a psychologist about it too? they might help you:)