questions about adult ADD - ADD / ADHD Message Board

Jisele7 · 02-07-2008, 07:09 AM

We have a family member who has adult ADD. I want to learn more about ADD. Is ADD somewhat related to depression and ADHD? How can I help her deal with ADD? Her husband isn't sure how to help her. Any tips on how her husband can help her get through the bad spells that come with ADD? She is on meds for ADD, however I'm not sure if she takes her meds faithfully. How can her husband help her?

Gump34 · 02-07-2008, 06:22 PM

Hi Jisele,

I have adult ADD and also suffer from depression. I got diagnosed as Bipolar this past summer. From what I've learned so far. Depression and/ or Bipolar can coexist with ADD. Maybe depression is a result from ADD.

Jisele7 · 02-07-2008, 06:33 PM

Hi Gump34,

Thanks for replying. I'm sorry that depression and bipolar got you. It must be tough. Darn mental illnesses!!! I also suffer from depression. But, at this time, I'm concerned for my sister-in-law who has let ADD beat her. I'm searching for info on how I can help her. I hope you are dealing okay!
Again, thanks for taking the time to reply.

jlabr · 02-11-2008, 10:19 PM

Hi,
"From my understanding"; depression is often a result of having ADD. Mainly to do with the fact that a lot of people who have ADD are on the two extremes in the spectrum of focus: either really focused on something, or not at all.
Therefore, when encountering a 'down' point in our cyclical moods it is very easy to become fixated on the negative elements of our lives; making it very difficult to focus on the positive.
Personally, being aware of when I am in getting into a down point and feeling chronically depressed I make a point of focusing, and participating in, the positive aspects of my life. Kicking myself to get to the gym and other activities that give me a sense of accomplishment that help me overcome these dreary periods.

First time posting here!!*** Hope my perspective is helpful.

Gump34 · 02-12-2008, 08:28 PM

Great advice jblar,

I can relate to the focus issues. I'll hypo focus on something that is really interesting not focusa on something not and then again seem to focus on negative stimuli which tends to bring on depression. I'm beginnng to think I may have been misdiagnosed as Bipolar and depression/anxiety is a result of many years of living with ADD w/o treatment. I'm just recieving treatment for it and I'm 34. I'm learning more about the symtoms and look back at past and current behaviors and can find a link.