ADD and Job prospects - ADD / ADHD Message Board

Kdeimos · 02-23-2001, 09:23 PM

Ok, I am 19 and I've had a sneaking suspicion that I have ADD for a long time now. Well, now I have the opportunity to get tested, but I'm hestitating. I have all the tell-tale symptoms, but I've never found it debilitating. I've consistently made good grades in school and everything. At the same time, it would really explain a lot of my behaviors that otherwise have no explanation. Ok, all that to ask: One of the reasons I hesitate is because I'm worried about employers see ADD on a medical transcript and finding it bad. I know they're not supposed to be discriminatory, but at the same time its human nature... So, has anyone every had problems with this? I really want to get tested to assuage my curiousities, but once I'm tested it'll go on my records and I'm worried about jobs. Thanks much!
~K~

Babernethy · 03-21-2001, 01:33 PM

I was diagnosed ADD just before landing the job I now have in the Education field. What's the big deal? You've got good grades and your smart. ADD CAN be a very good asset if you use it to your advantage. We tend to be 'more enlightened' and never stop moving. My wife and I gross over $110,000 per year...it has never held me back!
YOu are making too much out of it...don't worry...you'll do fine! Get yourself some vitmains!
B

mlgable · 03-23-2001, 09:45 AM

Go ahead and get tested. Your medical records are private and CANNOT be released to anyone without your express WRITTEN consent. ADD is has nothing to do with your ability to do a job. Babernethy suggested vitamins but if you are doing fine as is be careful about vitamins or any supplements until you know what ingredients are in them since many contain artificial colors etc which can cause problems for some individuals. You may want to try working on some focus exercises to get the right side of your brain to work more effectively or dominantly than your left side. I am going to try this with my son soon and will post what happens after he has been working on it for a while. Good luck

Reba · 03-28-2001, 08:40 AM

mlgable,
We spent a lot of money on the left brain/right brain stuff. Many evenings with a resistant child, doing exercises, (I can still hear the left leg, right arm, etc.) When all was said and done he was more co-ordinated but he still couldn't pay attention in class!