Posted by Slugbrain on July 17, 2015, at 18:59:05
In reply to Re: the way to treat ADHD » Chinaboy, posted by SLS on July 13, 2015, at 8:18:12
ChBoy: Boy, do I understand your frustration! It took me years to find someone who'd respect my thoughts and really listen. So much wasted time.
SLS - i respectfully disagree that ChBoy and his doctors can know exactly what he doesn't have - or does have. It's just not an exact science, this mental health/mood management business (wry smile)...
And again, there is certainly enough well-documented overlap in symptoms to at least consider ADHD in the differential. Not doing so might be even more detrimental to ChBoy's health, in the case that ADHD is the culprit; and ignoring the option *might* also preclude a much easier fix than the current multi-med cocktail (understanding of course that anger management still involves some behavioral modification).
ChBoy, IMHO I don't think you'd need a heavy hitter like Adderall to determine what will work best for you. In addition, if - as would be my guess - there is some ADH/D -h (hyperactive predominantly) or -c (combined) in the mix, you might well be better off with a methylphenidate (Ritalin etc.) than amphetamine (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse). See Adele Diamond work on this subject. If they try Adderall and mood control gets worse, as it might if you are a really -h type, they may not know to instead try a methylphenidate -- and just jump to mood disorder dx and meds.
For starters, compile as much anecdotal detail as possible as related to time of day, activity at onset of and type of symptoms. I'd think the in-school vs out of school difference in your mood (and inability to control anger) would be worth very careful observation and journaling. A truly informed psychiatrist would want to know about how your symptoms differ in each scenario and s/he would probably greatly appreciate your detailed notes. Note-taking works really well for me, anyway (thank goodness my OCD comes in handy once in a while!).
In treating ADH\D, once you've found the med that fits your needs, it can really help with anger management. Even though I'm an inattentive ADD-er, not typically prone to anger issues, I still notice that when the ADD meds are working all my social interactions go so, so much better. I am calmer and much less impulsive in my reactions to things I'm not happy about.
Last thought: if out of pdoc options, see if a child/adolescent pdoc would give you a consult. They'd know about how childhood ADH/D symptoms continue into adulthood, while "adult" psychiatrists, unless very recent grads, won't be current with ADH/D diagnosis and treatment, might think it's only in childhood, etc.
I'm an optimist, but I carry an umbrella. Or 2. Sometimes 3.
poster:Slugbrain
thread:1080318
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20150629/msgs/1080585.html