Hey A11en

I can attest to the fact that ADD is a legit issue, though it certainly can be misdiagnosed. I happen to be one of the people for whom medication does wonders, in my case a mixture of ritalin and wellbutrin. Some folks either A) don't respond to meds or B) don't like to take them even if they help becasue of side effects.

If you think you might have it, get the book Driven to Distraction by Hallowell and Ratey. Read this book before you get tested, it gives a good overview and some questions that you can ask your MD.

There should be no stigma attached to ADD, but if you feel like you are being denied opportunities because of it, it is covered by the ADA. Also note that no one needs to know you have it unless you want them to.

I can tell you this, if you do have it, and you respond to treatment, it's a fantatstic feeling. At the same time, there is no magic bullet, and it is still harder for me than for most people to focus and to get motivated. The meds help, but the solution is still up to me.

I hope you find the answers that you are looking for, and feel free to contact me with any questions.

--Ecg