Posted by Racer on February 21, 2008, at 14:12:54
In reply to Re: recently diagnosed with adhd and need your adv » sondico24, posted by gardenergirl on February 21, 2008, at 13:55:48
First, I agree with GG that an inability to concentrate isn't necessarily ADHD, and your reactions to methylphenidate don't sound as though they support that diagnosis. Also, the long acting forms of methylphenidate should be taken once a day -- that's the point, that they are slower release, and you don't get the highs and lows that the immediate release produces.
For what it's worth, I take Concerta -- a long acting form of methylphenidate -- and I know when I've hit the right dose because I feel more focused, but I can't really feel the medication. (That doesn't sound right, but what I mean is that there's no speediness -- I don't have trouble sleeping, don't feel extra talkative, don't have any sort of let down when it's wearing off, etc.) If you're experiences ups and downs throughout the day, that sounds as though there's a problem with either dosage or dosing schedule.
Since you've recently experienced something so profoundly life-altering, I wonder if you've considered trying psychotherapy? That's certainly not a suggestion that there's anything "wrong" with you, only a suggestion that it might help to be able to discuss your experiences, process some of the emotional turmoil they must have caused, and maybe learn some new coping skills that might help with the PTSD symptoms. I'm a big believer in therapy, and see a therapist myself, but I know that there are some people who are more suspicious of it, or believe that it's only for people who are "crazy," or have other negative views of it. I have very positive views of therapy, and really want to make that clear, as well as making clear that what works for me does not always work for others...
(Dear me, I guess I'm feeling worried about how my words are taken by others. I really mean well, but I'm terribly afraid that I'm inadvertently offending others.)
I, too, would like to thank you for your service to your country. I wish you all the best in adjusting to your return.
poster:Racer
thread:813918
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20080221/msgs/813928.html