Hi everyone! Man o man, what fantastic information! I'm so glad I asked here. I wasn't sure where to ask, but thought it might be appropriate with the ADD and ADT discussions lately.

Ecg- Thanks so much for the book suggestion! I'll definitely pick up a copy and check it out!

emuelle1- I know what you mean... often I think this way as well... working on my PhD has really taught me to have serious skepticism surrounding most research (I could tell you scary stories)... I'm positive there are real issues surrounding those who are diagnosed with ADD/ADHD etc., and the way I see it, is if the therapies work for the people sharing the same types of difficulties, this in itself has merit, regardless of the actuality of this type of disease. I hate to say this type of thing, and for those who have been diagnosed, please understand I'm not trying to say that things are all just made up etc... coming from someone who fears I may have these difficulties, I can tell you the behavior appears quite real. BTW, emuelle- I also gave up everything with nutrasweet... I never really put much stock in all the hub-bub regarding the substance, but I noticed that it played a major role in my quarter-life crisis/depression(s)... I was drinking 2 litres of the stuff every week. When I stopped, the depression was seriously influenced. Very weird. Now, if I feel a bit down, I run through the things I've chewed (watch those gums!), or eaten, to see if perhaps I had some. I've noticed it actually does correlate for me. Quite weird, eh? BTW, I'm not a coffee drinker, so I don't think that's playing a role. I tend mostly towards Green/Sencha/White etc., (perhaps some Yerba Mate), and Earl-grey mostly. :)

GH- thanks for the invaluable information. I completely understand that drugs may not be appropriate for my current state... that sort of thing I'll leave up to the docs to decide. :) [If I finally get off my duff and get tested.]

I can't thank you guys enough for your thoughts on all of this! Talking about it here is really a great help. I feel a lot better about thinking about getting tested, and if I finally do, I'll be sure to get back in touch.

For those of you who have experienced these types of things (ADD/ADT/ ADHD etc.), please feel free to post any thoughts you may have for me, etc. Either on getting tested, or on your experiences with coping with the above, and if a system worked for you.

I know that's a lot to ask for. ;) So, if the thread stops here, no problem! You all have given me fantastic thoughts and suggestions!

My best, guys!! :) Can't thank you enough!

[Who's of late eyeing that levenger pocket briefcase... if only it were $10 cheaper.... :) ]