Do I have ADD?

Question

I don't even know what all the symptoms of ADD are, so I don't know if I have it. It's really hard for me to focus on one thing, it's like my mind is hyper, I have so many random thoughts. When the teacher is talking to me, I just go into a daydream...everyday! Also, I have a really bad short-term memory.. Can someone tell me if I have ADD or what the symptoms of ADD are?

Also, it's like once I start doing something I get bored and move onto something else..I can't even read a whole book. not that i cant read i read very good but it is SO boring..I haven't read a whole book in about 5 years, and I'm only 17. I just cheat my way out of book reports by either downloading them, or picking a movie that has a book..

i know it's not good, but smoking pot relaxes my mind and helps me focus a lot..

Answer 1

The symptoms described suggest you are overdoing the pot, and that is what is causing them.

Many studies have been done on ADD and ADHD, and the names have been changed several times. Both of these terms will disappear soon, although I cannot recall the new one coming in.

Having ADD does not mean you are incapable of anything. Very often, it is people who have above-average intellect and abilities that seem to have the affliction. You should still be able to focus on what you like best, and focus VERY intently.

Myself, my wife and all 4 of my children have various levels of ADD, and all 4 children have IQ levels well above average, but I can promise you, from witnessing what two of my own children went through when using pot, it served only one end value: it screwed them up badly.

It saddens me every day to think of it, but the smartest one, whose tests repeatedly confirmed him to be a genius, has been most negatively affected by pot usage. Now 23, he still uses it, and his life has gone downhill. I suspect if he were tested today he would not score even close to his true ability.

Please, see a doctor who specializes in ADD, and straighten youself out.

Answer 2

Your symptoms seem to reflect those of a person with ADD, i.e. racing thoughts, unfinished tasks, bored easily, daydreaming...I personally have some of these symptoms, although I don't have a hyper mind and I don't daydream constantly. But I can identify with some of it. What works for me is trying to work under pressure, like limited time or having someone supervise me, so that I can focus better and finish on time. Also, having a planner or a To Do List. Ask for help, from your teacher, guidance counselor, parents, etc. They will understand and give you more ideas. Take care.

Answer 3

Everybody has ADD to some extent.

You are just not interested in the things that don't keep your attention.
If you could find something that does keep your attention, like a game, then you wouldn't have a problem.
That is what you have to find.

The one thing that worked for me is to catch yourself not focusing and retrain your brain to focus.

Remember and use this phrase:
"Be Here Now"
Train your brain to focus.

"Be Here Now" means that when you are off daydreaming, you should be here now, instead of off daydreaming.