Any other adult ADDs that are drunks? - ADD / ADHD Message Board

Overcomer32 · 12-11-2005, 03:14 PM

Hi,

Im an adult with ADD. I dont take meds for it right now but the 2 times I did, they seemed to have no effect (Strattera and Ritalin). BUt I definitely have ADD. I started college at an older age (32) this Fall and am struggling with both it and the need to work a part-time job. I also always screw up my friendships.... I have obsessive thoughts, just will hold onto something and not be able to let it go. Is ALL this ADD, or am I just whacked?

Also the title of this thread.... Im an alcoholic, binge drinking one. Im sure there are many with ADD who are drunks/addicts, just wanted to talk to anyone else out there struggling with all this. I go from feeling lazy and inadequate, to somewhat better, down into depression and staying in bed most of the day. I enjoy getting drunk but Ive gotten into major trouble and must quit for good this time.....

I dont know. Im just so frustrated. I know I need to avoid sugar too, but I cant seem to stay away from it, I just love it too much. No alcohol, no sugar, no caffeine (gives me panic), no a lot of things..... what else in life is any fun?

-Loser

whirlgirl8 · 12-11-2005, 09:45 PM

Here are a few simple things that may help you, they help me with my struggles through the maze of add, alcoholism, depression, ptsd, social anxiety and an eating disorder.
1) First things first----- Without staying off the booze and drugs there is no solution to any of my problems.
2) One day at a time, sometimes one moment at a time
3) Progress rather than perfection----I try to only look at where I've been and how far I have come in the past two years.
4) Take a deep breathe and step out in faith!

I know this sounds so trite but it really does work.

Kinda corny huh?

Overcomer32 · 12-12-2005, 08:53 AM

No, anything that works does not sound corny!!

I, too, have struggled with multiple issues, not just the ADD and drink prob. Had a chronic illness for 20 years before I was properly diagnosed, which caused all kinds of neurological and psychiatric problems, including 17 years of suicidal depression.... also self-injury, all kinds of childhood abuse, binge eating now, the drinking, SAD (seasonal affective disorder), panic disorder, OCD and a lot of other nasty stuff! It seems noone has "just" ADD -- they have other garbage in there too, mainly depression.

ANy other ideas you might have are welcome. I cant seem to think things thru and dont think about consequences (re: drinking) until after theyve already happened. Its truly frustrating, is there a way out of that??

Peace to you, thanks for replying,

Overcoming Loser