I just got through the book driven from distraction and it talks about how to diagnose (done by a professional), manage and live with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder). For readers unfamiliar with this disorder it's characterized by inattentiveness or lack of focus, disorganization, impulsiveness, hyperactivity among other things. You might say to your self "i guess that's me then" because we all suffer from these symptoms every now and then but when it becomes so severe that interferes with our work or school in a negative way then you know you have it. So the book was highly insightful and further educated me on this disorder. It was hard enough getting through the sadness of 'having a disorder' but this book gave me a lot to be happy about. I haven't gotten an evaluation from a psychiatrist yet but i know for a fact that i have it based on the information i've garnered over my 2 years of research.
So the authors of the book 'Driven from Distraction' seemed more positive about the prospects of a person with ADHD. They stressed on the two most important decisions an ADHD person will make in their lives. These were their career choice and their choice of a partner (for marriage or relationship). My ADHD only became apparent in high school when I was sent off to boarding school. I was highly disorganized, always lost, late and overwhelmed by what seemed like normal daily routine for the masses in my school. The more I tried to get it together, the less effective I was at combating this problem. It was very frustrating coupled with being teased and looked down upon by your peers. What became my saving grace was my hard work in my science classes and how I became quite popular with some teachers. Even then, I knew my grades didn't exactly match the work and effort I put into studying. I nevertheless graduated one of the best in my class (though not as high as i'd desired). So I made it to the University and I still managed to get through my ADHD with vigorous studying and commitment but i always knew something wasn't right.
What became for me a life changing moment was when I came to the United States. My first real job was in a pharmacy where I had to work amongst many people in a very routine regimented setting. Let's just say my experience was mmhh...not up to par with at least the others. One day I was summoned by my supervisor and given the harshest critique anybody could ever get. I almost died to say the least.I was mortifying!! I knew there and then that I couldn't work there any more but i had to get over it and give myself another chance. So i did just that but since I became more self-conscious it affected my work and I ended up messing up a whole lot more. It was only a matter of time before I gave up my job and found a more suitable job for my ADHD. So there! that was the experience that made me most aware of the problem.
Knowing that I have ADHD has been quite perplexing experience. Im not sure whether it's been helpful or harmful but it's made me quite self conscious and more cautious. Which can be a good thing or bad thing depending. I used to believe in myself and believe that life was a result of one's effort but now i don't know what to make of it really. i want to believe that i can thrive in anything I put myself to but it's hard. It has indeed affected my attitude. Ive become a little wary of certain decisions.
I am still thinking about going to see a psychiatrist and a life coach. Im worried about the cost and perhaps the effectiveness of the whole thing. I know meeting a life coach will be quite significant but taking medication for my condition is something Im still struggling with.
Today Im grateful that I live in a part of the world where anything is possible. Yea my attitude has changed but I still believe this is something i can get through with God's Help. I have dreams of becoming a physician, writer, filmmaker, mother etc. Thats the plan thus far. So let's see where it takes me this journey of life...
- GLAHP
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