A Pattern of Struggles: ADHD and the Older Adult

Are you an older adult who is among one of the fastest growing segments of people newly diagnosed with ADHD? You might find yourself coping with more than just the symptoms of the disorder.
Dr. Wetzel discusses how older adults can seek an accurate evaluation and some of the treatments available to them.
Presenter:
Martin Wetzel is a psychiatrist on faculty at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. He has specialized in the evaluation and treatment of ADHD in adults for many years. Dr Wetzel authored one of the first articles reviewing ADHD in older adults, and also wrote "The Adult ADHD Handbook for Patients, Family and Friends." Dr. Wetzel is currently the psychiatrist for the Mental Health Unit at the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, where he is a clinical instructor for psychiatric residents, medical students, physician assistants and nurse practitioners.
#ADD #ADHD #AdultADHD

[@Plethorality]

ritalin helped me to make a dental appointment and to actually turn up. that is huge.

[@chrispasson1940]

well done!

[@flowersunshinemtn]

“Adhd doesn’t just happen” may be true, except it can become debilitating with a job change (like he describes) OR MENOPAUSE!! I had many patterns when younger but was a high achiever and lots of coping mechanisms that started failing with peri menopause. It feels like I suddenly am suffering with adhd.

[@Sofia-nt5xd]

same here, I don't know how to do life anymore.

[@tazziegee8479]

I too found that Menopause really made a massive difference to my ability manage my life (waiting for an official diagnosis of ADHD though psychologist is pretty certain as am I),

[@kmcq692]

I’m 59 and hate to imagine what would be happening if I hadn’t pushed hard for my diagnosis, but only tried for it because my obsessive research led me to try to solve myself! As for this comment on less economic impact and more relationship impact, I hate to break it to you, but as my perimenopause exacerbated my lifelong ADHD I lost one thing after the other. It’s so weird.

[@thelisaofmonalisa4829]

Yes, I was laid off from my job of 15 years and dealing with menopause.

[@jsavannah]

Having a later in life child with ADHD exposed mine. No longer had access to the many coping mechanisms I had put in place as a single adult. What a trip to now see why everything was extra hard for me despite a higher IQ.

[@buffy377]

The hyperactive part for women is not the physical active but the mental active. Racing thoughts. Dopamine runs low always. Women’s cycles plays an issues for her ADHD. Educate. This information is not on your website.

[@Dancestar1981]

All due to diagnosis biases that’s why there are missed generations of people with ADHD who have been punished all their lives for being different

[@buffy377]

@@Dancestar1981 very sad situation

[@msheckler1]

Racing thoughts is a common problem for people with ADD. I've had that problem for most of my 60 years. Maybe you can find a doctor who can help you. This has only been recognized in the last 20 to 25 years. And even less for adults. And even when it's diagnosed in children, they don't associate with the parents, even though it's normally genetically passed. I asked my daughter when she was seven why she was acting the way she was. She gave me a very honest answer. She said she got a double helping. Meaning, me her father and her mother. Her mother and I both look at things a little differently. So it is no surprise that our daughter does too.

[@vandeevan]

I am 77 and have tried to get help my whole life. Now my primary and my psychiatrist refuse to prescribe a stimulant. they keep telling me I am depressed NOT, that adderall will cause heart problems...My life is in the toilet, and am having trouble functioning. Coffee and cigarettes is all the stimulant I can find. They say the hipocrattic oath says first do no harm. Taking me off adderall is dibilitating, there is no quality of life. I keep telling them that I would rather be able to live my life. and die of a heart attack, than live in this funk existance and not be able to function...which to me is more harmful than the heart attack. I cannot even get testing for ADHD. The last time it was inconclusive so much for the medical professions.

[@Susan0000007]

@@vandeevan I'm so sorry. I too am 72 and struggling in many areas. Kaiser Senior Advantage pretty much denies me professional evaluation because of my age, by their policy. This was told to me perhaps out of frustration by 2 people in their department. My husband doesn't understand that insurance won't cover a need. I don't even want the medication, but I'd try it. I am looking at the Muse or Mendi neuro training headband (EEG). I'd love to get a qEEG as a diagnosis tool to differentiate between dementia or a combination. Great stats on accuracy but a bit expensive. Then I need a coach, marriage therapy, and REALLY need to play catch up with financial planning.

[@burn1gotbeats]

Shoutout to everyone who deals with low dopamine it’s so exhausting.

[@baldersn4474]

I'd reply but I got too distracted 😂

[@buffy377]

I feel like I have now at 45 am just understanding myself when I have searched my whole life wondering what was wrong with me because I was obviously different.

[@vanessamcmaster6498]

So glad to come across stuff that is so me. In my 50s waiting to be diagnosed. But it's made me think that's what my mother had. Menopause has brought mine out so much, and when my children left the nest. Finding things really hard lately. I would so love someone to just sit down and talk to me about it. How to make things better.

[@andi8717]

I was medically forced into menopause and honesty if I hadnt been then I wouldnt have received my diagnosis at 41. It would have been later or never and it changed the game. So much made sense. Estrogen levels play a role in our dopamine and norepinephrine so it does cause ADHD to worsen during perimenopause and menopause.

[@christinezarate8295]

Hi Vanessa. I can relate to your honest struggle and could talk if you are still willing ✌️

[@Dancestar1981]

Female hormones worsen symptoms whether it’s puberty, regular monthly cycle or menopause

[@dianegraber9333]

@@christinezarate8295 I’ve often wondered .. how do you suggest we actually connect w others in order to share on a personal level? Maybe share our email here?? Or? I don’t want to risk unsavory people texting, etc.

[@karenb3662]

I’m 64 and feel like you do. Menopause then the empty nest. I’ve lost interest in fun things.

[@maryamory1549]

I am sixty. I discovered ( and it was later confirmed ) that what I had been struggling with all of my life was ADHD. I found out at forty four. I was eleven years into a mentally, verbally and emotionally abusive marriage. We had two children, both of whom were exhibiting symptoms .I finally had them diagnosed, years later than I should have because I was told repeatedly “ they’re fine. You’re crazy.” I knew that neither was true. I went through a painful grieving process, realizing how different my life could have been had someone known when I was a child . It still hurts to be made fun of for talking too much, having to still constantly declutter even the tiny house I am in since my divorce. My emotions are just under my skin, which is another thing that people tend to joke about. I read somewhere recently that the emotional component of ADHD was removed from the list of symptoms around 1968. That is the year I started kindergarten.

[@sutpremblair1438]

Grateful for this information . I am 70 yrs old. Am I dealing with childhood PTSD that has morphed as I get older with various trauma in life experiences ? was ADHD a factor with birth ? As a person who thrives on researching and gaining more info to help me understand my own situation, just seeing about 5 options here on KZbin was great. Younger folks "On the Spectrum" are empowering each other with videos, we their grandparents can glean much from their momentum . 🙂👍

[@michaelkloeckner6353]

I am 68 years old with ADD and Learning disabled. I read at a very low level 6th percentile. No meds have helped me. I feel depressed most of the time. That being said I feel like diet and excessive does help. Thankfully for my retirement befits. Also I able to keep active and learn new life styles here on KZbin. Thanks for the new information about. ADD/ADHD

[@LC-yo3bj]

Good luck to you sir, the nutrition and exercise helps me out too

[@echase416]

re: reading struggles. Are Audio books and Videos to be helpful?

[@michaelkloeckner6353]

@@echase416 yes.. My Amazon Kindle Fire reads to me. But KZbin is my favorite.

[@tnijoo5109]

There’s a lot of very brilliant people with dyslexia who can’t read hardly at all. Don’t let your reading difficulties ever make you feel like you’re not as smart as others. You watched this lecture. You’re learning. You have intellectual curiosity. There’s plenty of ways to learn without reading. Audiobooks are a game changer. You could also go to a cognitive psychologist and be tested for dyslexia and issues with reading comprehension. You might be helped by a reading tutor too. If this is something that really bothers you. Otherwise, KZbin, podcasts, and audiobooks are there for you. Good luck. 💚

[@justbeegreen]

I'd like to see studies of late diagnosed women with adhd, the relationship between hormones and adhd symptoms, and alternative therapies for people who are sensitive to typical pharmaceuticals. It is absolutely frustrating that we're still using the same treatments and not studying alternative therapies.

[@Dancestar1981]

Diagnosed with Inattentive ADHD this year at 40 diagnosed with Aspergers at 23 diagnosed with Anxiety and Depression pre teens. Bullied most of my life on disability pension and have had NDIS funding stripped back this year

[@visionvixxen]

Yep- I’m despondent and given up on myself and every professional now. Especially when you have to keep track of so much and that’s already your problem. They need like in house supervision.

[@meenagrewal484]

You are so kind and encouraging.

[@havestrength5802]

I am 56. My Dr has told me to expect my request for a diagnosis to be declined due to overwhelmed mental health services and because of my age. I know for sure that I have it. I am beyond frustrated. I have been misdiagnosed my entire life. I can't afford to go private. All I know is that when I was addicted to meth amphetamine I felt more normal than any other time in my life. I'm 15 years clean of hard drugs now. Because of my past drug history I can't get help with any other health problems.

[@slowdiver5732]

I’m 43 but we have very similar experiences where my drug of choice was opiates precisely because I was able to focus and get things done when on them. I feel quite hopeless about ever getting help for adhd. Stay strong.

[@foxymc01]

I had to wait 3 years to be diagnosed. It was a relief to know why iv3 struggled so much all my life. You demand you want it for your own peace of mind at least. Its vanessa with a different name.

[@obgfoster]

I was born in 1958, so I was 13 when ADHD became a diagnosis, and well into adulthood when you could be diagnosed without being hyperactive. It all got much worse after menopause, plus the stress of being the target of bullying at work (being managed out to make room for someone younger?) making it worse. Never seemed unusual in my family because in hindsight I realize we all had it!

[@honeychurchgipsy6]

@obgfoster - I am 60 and have realised for some time that the 'symptoms' I have always had and thought were just me being me (because - like you my whole family are the same) were getting worse. I am now going to learn as much as possible before trying to get a diagnosis.

[@patriciajump9511]

I commiserate!

[@mousethatroared1213]

I am so sorry you were bullied at work' hopefully you have found work where you are respected and valued. I was born in the late 50's and I know what yoiu mean!. In the early to mid 60s, girls "couldn't have" ADHD. I was diagnosed by doctors as being high strung and as having hyperkentic instead!

[@May-xt9pv]

I’m 64, recently diagnosed. I can see how adhd affected every aspect of my life. I haven’t found medication yet, the stimulants don’t help at all. It’s frustrating, but I’ve accepted that I might not find help with medication. Fortunately I’m working with a coach and meet with a small group of women over fifty who also have adhd. It’s been very helpful. If I can help with research in any way please ask.

[@lindavanderleelivingaligne600]

Mary Ann... I’m 61 and just stumbling into this as a possibility for me. I hope to find a group of women to learn and get / give support, especially around the added layers of menopause and potential dementia (given family history.) I live in Quebec, Canada.

[@rhondahechtman4732]

Its a struggle at this age

[@timsteinkamp2245]

Go dig in the dirt.

[@ginajennings4603]

Have you considered looking into L- Tyrosine?

[@alaysiakayebutler6299]

@@timsteinkamp2245 yeah, gardening is good but getting distracted by other tasks isnt real good for crops...

[@AntOn-nf9fi]

How do you deal with the intial shock of knowing you have adhd and then realising for 45 years, your family and friends have been treating you as if you are a bad person with a bad mouth? How do you deal with the thoughts that you feel that are quite negative towards those who, not through any fault of their own due to being unaware, to be able to rebuild relationships?

[@visionvixxen]

This is the hardest part- the misunderstandings and moral judgements on the part of family, spouses, workmates, bosses, schools. You have an invisible handicap which manifests as pride or reluctance or laziness to others…. If we didn’t have to hide or explain ourselves, we could at least be free to live and be. Loved, marry, date, work, look forward to school and grace in our trying new things. HARD!!!

[@tnijoo5109]

Compassion and meditation. 💚 And humility and reaching out to apologize and let people you care about know you love them. You’re doing great! Some people never figure it out and go through life ruining relationships with no remorse. Your self awareness is clearly evident. That’s a huge step in the right direction. A therapist might help you with some strategies to navigate the emotional pitfalls of trying to mend relationships. I think you might be doing much better than you realize. Good luck!

[@wendyhannan2454]

I suspected I had ADHD I decided to test for it, and I had it, I was hoping like hell I didn’t have it. It was a shock to be told by a professional; yes you do have ADHD I was 75. I cried as I had an answer to why I had so many struggles. I’ve excepted the diagnosis, and I’m learning to work with it, without meds. I read all I can on adults with ADHD. Thank you, I love this video, it’s excellent.

[@Pathdrc]

In my 50's as well and just recently came across all this information about ADHD, and it explains so much about my life, especially my current difficulties keeping up with my work. Will be talking to my doctor about this during my visit next week.

[@caracrabtree715]

Dito

[@BBFCCO733]

The risks of not taking meds outweigh the risks of taking them at this point. It's a matter of have being diagnosed for everything and never being functional enough or taking meds and being functional.

[@DidiDriver]

I was diagnosed with adhd Memory is pretty bad I worry about the future I don't remember my childhood very well.

[@Yosetime]

diddo!!

[@luweezla]

Same here

[@terrylee7302]

I know how you feel

[@Iamvelcrogirl]

Oh wow that just made me gasp out load. I don’t remember anything about my childhood at all

[@lindaover9764]

Here here

[@johnries5593]

Older adults should be seen for memory issues should be screened for ADHD. One of my standing jokes (dating to before my diagnosis) is that I've been senile since I was five (great long term memory, but terrible short term memory). A related one is that the probability of my remembering something is inversely proportional to its importance.

[@bonniejohnstone]

75 female diagnosed at 73. Remember, girls didn’t have ADHD or autism. We were ignored. I have high functioning autism and ADHD helps. I have food allergies (lots), photophobia, atypical migraines and fibromyalgia. None will kill me, I’m fortunate with a good attitude. I’ve been running into the edges of things for as long as I can remember. Now as an elder, I have marks on my arms and have knocked myself down in a new apartment with narrow pathways. What can be done? I think cutting myself on the door latches, edges of handles and counters, bumping walls is ADHD related.

[@lorimckay2704]

About adhd and menopause, Is it really temporary or is it the new normal? My lifetime experience adhd was bad as child, got better as a young woman in prime could finally read for pleasure, than starting in 40s lower estrogen levels while trying to return to college, needed meds first time in life. Now at 63 struggling even on my meds, yet my focus needs to be there to deal with changing health status, living alone, even focus to walk as I have other issues going on and if don’t focus hard at how I take a step my leg gives out! All this and my Dr getting nervous cause blood pressure went on rise and she wants my adhd meds reduced which is causeing me even more falls cause of lack of attention! Think it might be my new normal cause no idea where estrogen gonna return lol

[@bonnacon1610]

When you think “No matter how important this might be for me, there are other videos out there and I need music now” after 10 minutes….

[@patriciajump9511]

This is great. But ... Menopause is NOT (for me and a significant percentage of menopausal ADHD patients) a TEMPORARY issue in regard to symptoms and response to medication. Please, we need education and more research on this issue. For one thing, I have read that if estrogen levels are low enough, that the woman's dopamine receptors can "die out" .... I think this happened to me. My Adderall just plumb stopped working at around age 68-69. I had stopped HRT at about age 66. At age 69, a psychiatrist took me off Adderall, upped my Wellbutrin, and put me on Lexapro. For me (and a large number of women per the drug manufacturer literature on Medscape) the Lexapro caused "subjective" complaints of cognitive impairment. The article I read said they gave the women an Alzheimers drug, and it helped. Well, excuse me? For me, the Lexapro devastated my already ADD compromised short term memory. The second morning off Lexapro, I could finally again carry two thoughts. I was so terribly impaired on Lexapro. And the psychiatrist insisted I needed it for anxiety. But my ONLY anxiety had been because my ADD med had stopped working!!! This guy was not up on ADD. At age 70, when I started an ultra low dose vaginal estrogen, my cognitive impairment greatly improved, as did my joint problems from arthritis and injury. I avoided a hip replacement I was scheduled for, and the shoulder injury healed. This is only ONE case, but it needs to be investigated!!!! Heck, women on aromatase inhibitors have cognitive and joint problems! My estrogen was naturally very low, I believe, because I started my period on the late side of normal, I developed a very small bosom and small hips, and had a complete natural menopause at age 41. I started the HRT at age 42 and later started Wellbutrin at age 51, then Adderal at age 53, because my job got more demanding. So .... please suggest some research on the issues for which my case is an example!

[@brookecoach]

Thanks for this. I’ve just started skipping periods. Feel a huge difference in dopamine being low. Nothing works anymore accept cannabis at night so I sleep well.

[@dizifragmanlar3997]

I was diagnosed of A.D.H.D on time at an early stage of my life, and as a result I was home schooled, I wasn't happy about my condition especially when I see my siblings going to school every morning. As the years went by, I got to know about Dr Iyhere on youtube and I have tried out his sessions and drugs, I started day school last spring and it has been amazing.

[@lindachatrin7221]

I have servere adhd and tried many different meds in the last 7 year, since i was diagnoced as 45 years old. I believed the meds could make a bigger difference, but they dont. I have cronic braindamage because I pushed myself to hard and to much, and have had many breakdowns. But I always went back to work again, to early and before I was recovered. The result of so many years with struggle and overwhelm have destroyed my cocgnitive functions and I dont work anymore. Wish there was treatment options who helped just a little bit. Meditation and brainwaves give some relief thou.....

[@msheckler1]

You might want to consider behavior modification training. It is your brain that is the problem, not you. Behavior modification can give ways to deal with problems. It is something like teaching a child to say please and thank you, etc. It takes a long time for them to get it. So, it will be for you. Learning to change, and how, takes a lot of work and time. Don't get down on yourself if it doesn't work right away.

[@evongough8062]

I’m 68 yrs old I’m sure I have ADHD A recent visit to my doctor was horrible. I was accused of drug seeking.

[@truthmerchant1]

I hope you've found a better doctor by now. It sometimes takes several attempts until you find one who will listen and refer you for assessment but it's worth persevering. Good luck!

[@BBFCCO733]

Yup. Terrible. Let them live a day in your shoes. Medication that allows you to have a functional life should not be seen as suspicious.

[@vintage_violet]

Very helpful conversation, thank you!! I'm 52 and have had lifelong issue with attention, relationships, jobs, etc. Hopefully I get a diagnosis soon -- this discussion has helped me feel better about pursuing that at my age. 💜

[@perseverance9888]

The problem I find with most stimulant medications is once you build a tolerance some doctors will be reluctant to increase dosages. Scientists need to come up with some medicines that give the brain dopamine it needs without creating tolerance or just don't stop people's dosages from increase as needed until they're alive if needed without having them to take medicine breaks. People with type 2 diabetes don't develop tolerance to the medicine and the brain is just an organ like the pancreas so hopefully science test will come up with medicine that will give the brain the dopamine it needs without tolerance build up

[@hollydowns2279]

instead of helping ppl we are a society of judges

[@Dancestar1981]

Medication stops working it’s not an answer high doses of caffeine and energy drinks give me better results without side effects and they are cheaper

[@Amandagirl73]

@@Dancestar1981 interesting you say that. A male friend had a heart attack caused 100% from an energy drink. Many people have had just one of these energy drinks & dropped dead, fact. They're poison ☠️

[@janetbrooks8505]

I take medication breaks on days I know it’s okay. Exercise, helps, low carb eating, keto helps. It’s hard, I’ve been more fearful of the medication not working due to my body getting too used to it. It’s worked so far and I haven’t needed to increase the dosage. It’s hard for sure. I never understood why life would seem so hard, better late than never.

[@jenniferchamberland5872]

Where do you find someone who knows about all these issues around ADHD and the medications needed to help these people. Basically, I personally need someone like you! My doctor treated me terribly when I was going through a marriage breakdown. He knew nothing about Mental Health and actually added to my psychological problems!

[@hugglesnz]

You talk about less impact on employment in older adults and I'd very much like to hear more on that. As a volatile 50s adult only diagnosed a couple of years ago my academic potential was never realised. My university attempt was a failure. I went from job to job - mostly through emotional dysregulation issues that I had no idea was even a thing. Working 40+ hour weeks is impossible for me. It's only been since my mid 40s I found a job through my husbands friend where I can have an interesting job where I am valued and it's stable - and only work a 30 hour work week - more than that and I burn out and absolutely melt down. So I would argue that there should be a lot more discussion with ADHD adults about how they think ADHD may have ultimately impacted on their education and job prospects - and obviously their wealth accumulation over their lifetime

[@elizabethhiebert1859]

I work as In. Home. Mental. Health. Skill. Building. Provider. The two older adults I provide services to have chronic pain from past accidents ( likely ADHD influenced) plus the ADHD and significant traumatic influences.... So many behaviours that seem consistent with post traumatic stress disorder. These people also have family history of schizophrenia........ Very challenging to be of help.

[@sarahbyrne8501]

My brain keeps drifting off till I hear the word ‘ dea limit’... dear Christ will it never end?? ❤️😢😂

[@leeashley6891]

I’m a 70 yo female retired psych RN currently awaiting diagnosis. I’d gladly participate in studies.

[@itsmybuddha.nature]

Omg...me too! I'm 60! Not quite retired but just gave up. I hope you read my comment!!! Please tell me about your journey!!!

[@marcia6190]

I am 68 and now have a. Psychiatrist who wants to take me off adderall. He thinks people outgrows it!! I am so angry...hes made me more anxious and my anger is out of control. I wish I know other older women with ADHD for support. I am a retired RN.

[@echase416]

Off label meds for ADHD include Effexor and Wellbutrin, for those unable to obtain (locate; afford) other ADHD assessment and treatment.

[@KiwikimNZ]

@@marcia6190 I am a RN and finally diagnosed at 51. I’m having real problems at getting any help. I’ve been told by the mental health nurse I’m too old to be diagnosed.that I’m not a priority. That I won’t be given medication. Why wasn’t I diagnosed before this! Lol. I was misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder even though I had never had a manic episode in my life, hyperactivity yes, and no cycling! That diagnoses was dropped 18 years after another depressive episode that required me to seek treatment and therapy for several months and they finally listened to me when I said I do not have bipolar! After my son was diagnosed it was like a light bulb went off. So I started my research and bingo I finally understanding everything I was learning. . What a waste of time. I have given up now. I’m just leaving it. Life has been to trying and hard and I don’t have the fight left in me to challenge the system.

[@KiwikimNZ]

@@echase416 Effexor was a terrible drug for me. I had the most extreme adverse effects from it. The muscle jerks and twitches on it were uncontrollable and I felt terrible on it. I’m now on sertriline. In the past I have been on everything to try and treat my depression even lithium which made me into a zombie and I can. It recall the year or so that I was on it. I have been on maybe 8 different anti depressants!!. .

[@derbedermusti]

Hi as a medical personnel I tell my clients to always checkup on their family. To know if they are okay. But I didn't have enough time for mine and I didn't notice that my child had ADHD. But I am greatful to Dr Iyhere on youtube for providing a lasting treatment for him. I appreciate you sir.

[@jamesdevries1218]

Yes, this should be reviewed for medical schools as well other neurological disorders. Autism is prevalent in being misunderstood.

[@JJ-rp2df]

Excellent adhd recognition, critique and self awareness for sufferers exploring options and treatment.

[@goldenglowladore3842]

Thank you Dr. Wetzel for the excellent information! It's encouraging.

[@Vgallo]

Very helpful thank you. Although I wish I got the level of care and interest that this dr advocates.

[@jenniferchamberland5872]

Most providers are not educated enough about the Mental Health System so this does not surprise me when Medical Providers do not know very much about ADHD , particularly Older Adult with ADHD.

[@VooDooSue]

Just turned 60 and am awaiting diagnosis. As I'm aging, my ability to "accommodate" is becoming very challenging and I'm distinctly recalling issues in school chronicled as willful disregard. My parents were blamed as immigrants who were not speaking in English to me. (They did, and got stuck in a system of unconscious bias.) My sister has displayed classic traits and was also labeled. I wonder how many people were impacted by possible bias in conclusions reached?

[@pmccord9]

If you're on Medicare, good luck finding a shrink to diagnose and treat.

[@KiwikimNZ]

Same here in New Zealand waiting lists are long for private appointments and it’s a joke. I’m diagnosed but had not help what so ever

[@felixdiaz2605]

Looking at the explanation Daniel Amen, a brain scan can help to find a brain injury or find the medication that triggers best the needs of a individual.

[@Dancestar1981]

It’s not a brain injury it’s a neurological brain wiring difference and lack of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine

[@ryuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu]

I've read through the comments and I mostly see older people that just knew or realized that they have ADHD. I am only 18 years old and I feel bad for them who just knew that they have ADHD. I also just found out that I have symptoms for ADHD and I want to get diagnosed and learn more about myself from a professional's perspective but I don't have the courage on how to tell my parents that I might have ADHD. Thinking back from the days that they often scold me because of my bad actions, it makes me more scared telling them that the reason I'm all like that is because I "might" have ADHD. If anyone's reading this, I wanted to ask if it's possible to get diagnised without the help of close relatives? Is there an online diagnosis? I'll try my best to research it myself.

[@truthmerchant1]

Depending on where you live, you may be old enough to legally able to go to your doctor and ask to be referred for a diagnosis without the need for your parents' knowledge or permission. The doctor has to keep your medical details confidential and you are entitled to make your own medical decisions.

[@Paul020]

Hi, perhaps public health dept. Some have very good Psych Drs. There is over 50% possibility you inherited from one or both parents. Many adults were diagnosed after their kids were. As you might guess it's a big deal. My son was diagnosed young. I wasn't until 15 yrs later. Looking back it influanced my life at times in a major way. I encourage you to keep at it get a diagnosis, it's in your best interest.

[@tnijoo5109]

Darling, you’re 18! You certainly don’t need anyone’s permission or acceptance to get proper treatment. If you’re on your parents insurance, just tell them you want to start going to therapy. Depending on your insurance, there might be a list of therapists in network to choose from. Find ones that specialize in ADHD. Look at reviews online. A therapist can refer you to a psychologist. The psychologist will probably do a number of tests with you that might take a couple hours. Now, here’s the hard part. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO YOUR OWN PRIVACY. So, when you go to these appointments, you do not have to answer to your parents about why you’re going or what you’re being tested for. You can simply say, “I’d rather keep that private right now but I really appreciate your concern for my well-being”. Your parents grew up in an age where ADHD was absolutely no secret. For most of us who are older, our parents had no comprehension of it. If you do end up having ADHD, you can let your parents know that it is a disability and that they can help accommodate your needs rather than shaming you or emotionally abusing you for your disability. Another comment here mentioned getting a referral from your doctor. That’s also a good option, but having a therapist might really benefit you. That said, if you do end up starting medication, be aware of how much it changes your brain. I think it was essential for me in my treatment but I feel like my mind was wrecked from not getting enough sleep and being on it too long. I suggest taking months at a time off the stuff, or years, use low doses, and get good sleep, diet, and exercise. Stimulants can really change who you are and the way your brain works. They both helped me and harmed me. Good luck to you!!

[@kmcq692]

If you don’t want to wait for diagnosis, I suggest taking fish oil.

[@janmorgan7435]

My daughter has been diagnosed and going through the menopause, she’s 42 and unable to take the stimulant medication. Then myself, the Dr would not allow an assessment and asked, what good an assessment would do in my 60s . I explained it may relieve some symptoms of anxiety , which have had as a young girl. I’ve suggested a stimulant as a Consultant prescribed in Australia and it was amazing, but back in the UK , Edinburgh. What can l do ? No support and need go private I’ve been told by my Dr. Why is there no support. This Dr has great understanding of this condition. Thank you

[@oliviatrue2907]

Just figured out I Must be ADD at 65. My daughter on stimulants suggested I read up on it. Bingo! Doesn't That explain things:D Excited to make changes understanding this.

[@msheckler1]

It is no surprise. It is genetic. Parents often find out when there children are diagnosed.

[@countrysister700]

This video is one of several CHADD videos I've zoned in on and watched this am. Fantastic info presented quickly and concisely with those wonderful Powerpoint points and time stamp prompts. My favorite videos I've seen in a long time! 66 YO widowed female diagnosed recently after 30yo son was clinically diagnosed. A "teledoc" practice I found agrees that with regular reporting BP I'm a good candidate for medication. Out of pocket I can't afford Vyvanse - the medication that's literally changed my son's life and gives me a quiet, under-the-radar productive, happy day that my generic Adderall doesn't (no insurance for Tx or Rx).

[@francesgillotti1378]

I can’t pay attention to the speaker . I’m 68 just found out I have ADHD .

[@waterlovindog2256]

Frances, I am 64 and after decades of therapy for depression, ADHD was mentioned and surprise-I fit the DSM-V criteria. I am awaiting test results. Good luck to you.

[@Yosetime]

My son had complained of not being able to retain information from his teachers during class, when the teacher was speaking, rather than writing things on the chalkboard. All through his school years. He had to get one-on-one help from his teachers in high school and ended up believing he was just stupid (which was surprising because he is actually brilliant and we could see this well before he started school). So, even though his college was paid for, he didn't go because he thought he was too stupid to do it. When he was 17 he said he was depressed and the doc put him on medication. Which didn't help of course. Because he didn't have depression. But that was the only word he had in his vocabulary to describe his issue. This makes me feel like a failure as a parent. I didn't even realize what was happening to him until I was just recently, a few weeks ago, diagnosed with ADHD. And since it's genetic, I believe this has been his problem all along. He's almost 20 years old now. I still haven't told him about it. I need to do that so he can have the best opportunity for success. But I too am just learning to cope. The diagnosis was not even in my thoughts and so it came out of left field for me. I am still in shock. Thank goodness for these KZbin videos! I especially enjoy @TotallyADD because Rick is hilarious, and Canadian, lol, and he always hits the mark to understanding this condition. Thanks Rick! Good luck to you Frances!

[@ltorrison1]

Yosetime it’s better late than never. I was just diagnosed with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder at age 26, and it does take awhile to “mourn the loss of what could have been,” but I’m so glad that I have both of those diagnoses as it really helped me with all of my shame from being a chronic under achiever and I feel like for the first time I actually have hope of having a decent future. And while it did take me a little while to forgive my parents, but I know they love me and wanted the best for me they just had no idea about these disorders and I get the feeling that you are in a similar situation with your child. Obviously you have to deal with your own problems, but if I was your child I’d want to know as soon as possible so I didn’t waste more of my life not knowing

[@Dancestar1981]

Speed up video click on top right of screen for dits set play back to 1.5 x or above

[@Dancestar1981]

@@Yosetime love Rick Green and Jessica McCabe’s channel

[@caracrabtree715]

Going on 50, always suspected, def my mom and son have, also undiagnosed. Was limited on info, now looking into it and explains so much of my life look back as far as 6, difficulties in my 20’s , so many things throughout my entire life explained. Now living rural and great I won’t now get the help

[@HelpForADHD]

Contact us. We can provide you with resources that will help. chadd.org/about/about-nrc/

[@NB-sq7ui]

The starting jazz music reminds me of the start of an episode of Fraiser lol

[@Neisy444]

It DOES! 🤣🤣🤣

[@notnotknowing2946]

Pay attention

[@bpotter9182]

Lol

[@kmcq692]

It occurred to me that my father has managed his own brain with his journaling and with AA meetings and culture. He is 87 and has a bossy girlfriend with a loud voice too. What do you know? They are touring the world!

[@baldersn4474]

I'm 52 awaiting a diagnoses for adult ADHD..In the UK the average waiting list is about 2 years..😢

[@psps6134]

Due to the nature of my job I have been unable to try out alot of things, also I tend to be forgetful of things so I went to the hospital and I was asked to conduct some tests. When the doctors told me I had ADHD, and meeting Dr Iyhere after all these so called treatments, my life has been quite difficult.

[@kamuconkamucon8543]

Can you please start with a definition of the term?

[@ts25679]

I can't get the people who say they love me to try and understand ADHD and why I struggle so much, let alone anyone else.

[@chrispasson1940]

Diagnosed 20 years ago at 50. In all that time i've told about 8 people, apart from Doctors

[@jag3217]

After ten years meds need to be boosted up but no docs are scared of giving u more they might get a hand slap

[@genecurrivan2799]

100 percent correct. DEA has zero ability to stop the flood of drugs coming into our nation so they look to decent docs to harass. My brother was an MD (since passed on) A DEA agent came in with an empty prescription bottle, using a cane and whining he could not stand the pain - my brother refilled as was written on the prescription bottle... 10's of thosands of dollars later, he's doing community service, mostly in inner city clinics for gang bangers.... A scam and a set up.

[@tillykathy]

I can't stay, this sound quality is awful to the point of painful :-(

[@ianmunday7574]

Darth Vader😵

[@goldenglowladore3842]

Only in the last minute or two of presentation, did the sound quality diminish, for me. It was great til then, personally.

[@jenniferchamberland5872]

What about ADHD and Trauma from Childhood? Trauma changes the way you think and grow. Look at the prisoners in our Society, alcoholic’s , Personality disorders has been proven to stem from past trauma and possibly this may develop into ADHD. What do people think?

[@fearchar998]

It's a neurological condition. Trauma doesn't affect that (although it may be caused by an inappropriate reaction to events).

[@greenness7387]

You are born with ADHD. However, having said that, it could be linked to the mother's stress cortisol load. It is also genetic.

[@kmcq692]

Chicken. Egg.

[@bpotter9182]

It stopped midway thru. Can no longer hear it.

[@denniskesik1531]

I am 70 years old. Diagnosed with add 3 years ago. I do have some heart disease and recently had a stroke. Have been on adderall for 2 years and now they completely cut me off of it. I am having trouble getting motivated now and am depressed. They are saying the adderall is not safe for me to take Have you found this to be true in your studies?

[@jrockerh]

This is hard to focus on

[@baldersn4474]

Im really trying to stay through this video..46 mins in i keep drifting off , stopped it twice to make a drink and play with the cat...Trying to maintain my attention as i really need to watch this 😂

[@RachelDresslerLove]

At age 57 its finally coming out in the open. ADHD was not a part of any sort of knowledge of; at my age, especially, for Woman. Out of curiosity; how many are also O Negative Blood? (I think this needs to be Researched more.) Hoping I can find a place in Colorado, for an official diagnosis; because I am so not motivated by the same things as other humans and sincerely feel like an Alien, with my views on this human experience. Add 2 TBI's- only complicates the whole thing. Thank You for your Honesty! It has Helped Immensely! Suggestions Welcomed! Wow! Soo Very Helpful! Grateful for Your Knowledge!! 💝 Keep Educating, Please!! 😇

[@brookecoach]

Female diagnosed at 53 but A+ blood

[@goldenglowladore3842]

Hello, 57, female, O- negative blood type. Diagnosed 6 months ago but haven't found the right med yet. Blessings and thank you.

[@candacecassidy6633]

Suppose all pharmacies are temporarily out of stock of the medication for ADHD?

[@postvizsla7509]

How can anyone navigate the medical system? I’ve been trying to figure out how to get an appointment for years and can’t figure it out. I’m so frustrated. I want to get help so bad. I’ve tried on my own and failed for years.

[@randolphschreiner4479]

Are you still seeking diagnosis?

[@Observeandlearn994]

65 and just been diagnosed 😢

[@donnaallgaier-lamberti3933]

I would like to know how to determine what behaviors are ADHD and what behaviors are cognitive decline? Can a 78-year-old senior citizen (male) ADHD get worse as they age?

[@egemensezer8834]

Hi guys I am Maverick, my adhd symptoms, move hands randomly from left to right, look at any kind of light source with the left side of my vision, always itchy, struggling to sleep and keeping a conversation with the help of Dr Iyhere I have been sleeping and I can look at the light source directly now.

[@chantalgibbs678]

Has anyone started taking medication during menopause and if so how has it affected your life.

[@christinevr7698]

Starting meds tomorrow, at age 56

[@brookecoach]

I got diagnosed because of peri menopause. Tried Adderall. Worked for an hour or so a day, then an emotional rollercoaster. In the same office as my therapist one Psychiatrist was doing brain scans. Did that. Found out my brain was overly stimulating everywhere. Started using cannabis at night to sleep. Has helped a lot but after a year I need something to help me during the day now. As the hormones drop so does my ability to function.

[@Susan0000007]

If you want more information on ADHD search KZbin for Barkley to start with. He also offers several ways to help your ability to focus etcetera. He defines what are the "executive brain functions" involved. It may take many hours over time and taking notes. Fair warning. But just skip over what is too technical for you and take what is useful to you. I am trying to find someone to evaluate me now that Kaiser senior advantage has turned me away. I tell my husband: "Don't ask the one armed woman to knit." In other words I'm not the best choice for learning new material then working with multiple variables and making a decision. IE financial planning!

[@tjj5337]

Unfortunately, Doctors no NOTHING about diet and nutrition and sleep.

[@luisgarza4169]

👍

[@flowersunshinemtn]

Maybe menopause symptoms go away if you don’t have adhd! But if menopause helped you see that you’ve had adhd all your life, it’s not likely temporary!!! TYVM

[@mitchelthinks]

So prevalence of ADHD in older adult adhd goes down because we die? That's morbid lol

[@Dancestar1981]

Diagnosed at 23 with Aspergers and ADHD Inattentive at 40

[@MrBeastFan39278]

Being born this way haven't been funny, during my college days I got tired of taking the medications so I stopped. And my condition got worst. Which made me start looking for a permanent solution when Dr Iyhere's herbal medical page popped up. I took the dosages and followed the prescriptions. I haven't been this active and better in my life.

[@goldenglowladore3842]

Yay, I'm glad you feel better and more active. Herbal med page? I'll look for it. I'm interested in foraging, etc.

[@vibrantly50]

This presentation is, for me, too dry to hold my attention. Slides with facts and a very analytical narrative is quickly boring. Is there another way to present this? Maybe a videoed interview between two or three people…

[@Sofia-nt5xd]

I open transcript (click on the 3 dots under the video to access the menu and choose "show transcript") and skim read through it, only really read the parts that interest me. I can't listen to these lectures either. Sometimes changing the video speed to 1.5 helps making it more digestible.

[@veganapiranha7365]

Wow, this guy is a salesman for the drug companies, he doesn't seem to know much of anything about the data.

[@Dancestar1981]

Exactly

[@Vgallo]

What?? Why do you say that? I thought he was quite balanced and not overly conservative, which is a good thing, usually drs are too conservative resulting in many that don’t present with obvious and stereotypical symptoms to miss out on treatment.

[@robynmitchell9563]

Troll

[@goldenglowladore3842]

@@Vgallo I thought this doctor was awesome!

[@kmcq692]

Everyone should talk more about food too.

[@bpotter9182]

How can boomers sign up for DEA studies on adderall which has also been proven to stop pain so why isn't adderall prescribed more in seniors? How can I volunteer to participate in further studies involving seniors w adhd as a woman? I have the need to help our adhd community. Why hasn't psychiatry made any advancements in over 30 years. How may I contact you? I've subscribed you can find me here. Sounds as if you want to help us but you seem unable to do to lack of research despite the facts that boomers are the largest groups of people all over the world. Also treating it w disabled seniors. I've found absolutely no info regarding this. Please help us. I'm so westernly located. Unable to do video chats unless Facebook. Do you speak to people over the phone whose insurance you may not take? I Urgently need to speak w you. 6-24-21. I saw driven to distraction years ago and wanted to read it but I have low vision for reading and thought I'd be unable to read it all.

[@msheckler1]

Think about getting an audio version of the book. They have gotten better over time. Sometimes I even read when I am listening. It has improved my interest in reading. I also understand better when I read and listen at the same time.