ADD and what i'm going to do to beat it.

bessie
Wed, 20 Dec 2006 23:41:00 +0000

You can survive college without meds if you have to. Ask the school disability office for referrals to an organizational coach. That said, all of the drugs for ADD have different side effects for each individual. You might try different drugs and even the same drugs in different formulations. Concerta, Adderall, and Focalin all come in short and extended relase formulas. My son had side effects with Concerta, but not with Focalin, even though they are part of the same drug family (Ritalin). If your parents are willing, it may be helpful to see a psychiatrist who specializes in treating people your age. Your brain is very malleable right now and you might get good advice from an expert who treats young adults frequently.

Don’t despair. Take the most interesting classes you can. Read this book: Learning outside the Lines. Don’t remember the authors…it was co-written by two LD students who survived the Ivy League and gives very practical tips for LD kids to get through college.

Good Luck!