ASD / ADD in adults
Discussion
Morning all,
Does anyone have any good resources in order to carry out a screening for autism / add type conditions please? i don't mind paying - not looking for freebees here
Background:
Over the last 7 years or so i have had a number of distance learning courses which were learner led, no real time content, all pre-recorded and online resources of stored info. I have always done really bad with these. I failed in most spectacular fashion a CBCI course a few years back and have since been put on a bloody apprenticeship customer service course which i am really struggling with.
So bad my progress was that they referred me to a 'specialist' learning coach who after listening to me rant for two hours about how much stress and anxiety i build up with these courses suggested i should get looked at for:
Dyscalcuila
ASD
Hyper Activity Disorder
I am extremely good with data/analysis - have passed train driver attention to detail assessments in the past so i'm not what i'd describe as dim. I have a higher than average EQ / EI and pick things up (that i'm interested in) really quickly but whatever it is that i have, seems to be getting worse.
I need tasks explained to me and broken down so i have a clear understanding of what i am supposed to do, and i lose focus really quickly if i don't 'get it'
I am fine in a classroom environment, either virtual or physical but i just can't sit there on a portal, trawling through static resources and task lists.
Any help would be appreciated.
Does anyone have any good resources in order to carry out a screening for autism / add type conditions please? i don't mind paying - not looking for freebees here
Background:
Over the last 7 years or so i have had a number of distance learning courses which were learner led, no real time content, all pre-recorded and online resources of stored info. I have always done really bad with these. I failed in most spectacular fashion a CBCI course a few years back and have since been put on a bloody apprenticeship customer service course which i am really struggling with.
So bad my progress was that they referred me to a 'specialist' learning coach who after listening to me rant for two hours about how much stress and anxiety i build up with these courses suggested i should get looked at for:
Dyscalcuila
ASD
Hyper Activity Disorder
I am extremely good with data/analysis - have passed train driver attention to detail assessments in the past so i'm not what i'd describe as dim. I have a higher than average EQ / EI and pick things up (that i'm interested in) really quickly but whatever it is that i have, seems to be getting worse.
I need tasks explained to me and broken down so i have a clear understanding of what i am supposed to do, and i lose focus really quickly if i don't 'get it'
I am fine in a classroom environment, either virtual or physical but i just can't sit there on a portal, trawling through static resources and task lists.
Any help would be appreciated.
there are a number of threads on here for Autism and one for ADD/ADHD.
Starting point for most people is their GP, but that is likely to take probably a couple of years.
Alternatively you can go private. Cost would be 1500-2k ish for ASD and about 1k for ADD/ADHD.
There are screening questionnaires on the internet for AQ quotient for ASD and WURS for ADHD - these will give u an indication to stop you wasting your money.
It might be best to seek ADHD first as there is 'treatment' for that and it is very effective. In addition ADHD can often look like ASD as well. so It could be you only have ADHD
Starting point for most people is their GP, but that is likely to take probably a couple of years.
Alternatively you can go private. Cost would be 1500-2k ish for ASD and about 1k for ADD/ADHD.
There are screening questionnaires on the internet for AQ quotient for ASD and WURS for ADHD - these will give u an indication to stop you wasting your money.
It might be best to seek ADHD first as there is 'treatment' for that and it is very effective. In addition ADHD can often look like ASD as well. so It could be you only have ADHD
sparkyhx said:
there are a number of threads on here for Autism and one for ADD/ADHD.
Starting point for most people is their GP, but that is likely to take probably a couple of years.
Alternatively you can go private. Cost would be 1500-2k ish for ASD and about 1k for ADD/ADHD.
There are screening questionnaires on the internet for AQ quotient for ASD and WURS for ADHD - these will give u an indication to stop you wasting your money.
It might be best to seek ADHD first as there is 'treatment' for that and it is very effective. In addition ADHD can often look like ASD as well. so It could be you only have ADHD
Thank you for this - The WURS test showed i was just on the side of "you are likely to be suffering with ADHD" score. AQ was low or none.Starting point for most people is their GP, but that is likely to take probably a couple of years.
Alternatively you can go private. Cost would be 1500-2k ish for ASD and about 1k for ADD/ADHD.
There are screening questionnaires on the internet for AQ quotient for ASD and WURS for ADHD - these will give u an indication to stop you wasting your money.
It might be best to seek ADHD first as there is 'treatment' for that and it is very effective. In addition ADHD can often look like ASD as well. so It could be you only have ADHD
I'll speak to the GP and get an idea of wait times, and then look into private if it's too long.
Pixelpeep 135 said:
Thank you for this - The WURS test showed i was just on the side of "you are likely to be suffering with ADHD" score. AQ was low or none.
I'll speak to the GP and get an idea of wait times, and then look into private if it's too long.
the AQ is an old test - see if you can get hold of the RAADS-R test - this is better and more reliable - however unless you were 'masking' then it looks like you don't have ASD however there is another test they do to highlight when people are masking, but that's not generally available.I'll speak to the GP and get an idea of wait times, and then look into private if it's too long.
The ADHD might be worth a look based on your score, if you don't qualify for a diagnosis and treatment at least you can be better informed and maybe utilise some of the behavioural techniques
The main ones are Psychiatry UK and ADHD 360. They do diagnosis but even these have waiting lists, and then there is an even longer one for treatment after the diagnosis. So take the initial quoted waiting list with a pinch of salt. check out Aspireautismconsultancy they can do screenings and signpost you to other resources (currently quicker ones).
It may well be worth getting a proper face to face assessment, not cheap but can be very useful. Will help you understand what, if any, conditions you may have. Online tests can be a good indicator but they are flawed. Once you know you can make adjustments, your employers could make adjustments and you can develop some positive coping strategies (get rid of negative ones). or you can just carry on as normal, but at least you will know. Many conditions can actually be positive if you use them correctly. LinkedIn now lists dyslexic thinking as a skill and is desirable to some employers.
Pixelpeep 135 said:
Morning all,
Does anyone have any good resources in order to carry out a screening for autism / add type conditions please? i don't mind paying - not looking for freebees here
Background:
Over the last 7 years or so i have had a number of distance learning courses which were learner led, no real time content, all pre-recorded and online resources of stored info. I have always done really bad with these. I failed in most spectacular fashion a CBCI course a few years back and have since been put on a bloody apprenticeship customer service course which i am really struggling with.
So bad my progress was that they referred me to a 'specialist' learning coach who after listening to me rant for two hours about how much stress and anxiety i build up with these courses suggested i should get looked at for:
Dyscalcuila
ASD
Hyper Activity Disorder
I am extremely good with data/analysis - have passed train driver attention to detail assessments in the past so i'm not what i'd describe as dim. I have a higher than average EQ / EI and pick things up (that i'm interested in) really quickly but whatever it is that i have, seems to be getting worse.
I need tasks explained to me and broken down so i have a clear understanding of what i am supposed to do, and i lose focus really quickly if i don't 'get it'
I am fine in a classroom environment, either virtual or physical but i just can't sit there on a portal, trawling through static resources and task lists.
Any help would be appreciated.
For what it's worth, I experience somewhat similar issues.Does anyone have any good resources in order to carry out a screening for autism / add type conditions please? i don't mind paying - not looking for freebees here
Background:
Over the last 7 years or so i have had a number of distance learning courses which were learner led, no real time content, all pre-recorded and online resources of stored info. I have always done really bad with these. I failed in most spectacular fashion a CBCI course a few years back and have since been put on a bloody apprenticeship customer service course which i am really struggling with.
So bad my progress was that they referred me to a 'specialist' learning coach who after listening to me rant for two hours about how much stress and anxiety i build up with these courses suggested i should get looked at for:
Dyscalcuila
ASD
Hyper Activity Disorder
I am extremely good with data/analysis - have passed train driver attention to detail assessments in the past so i'm not what i'd describe as dim. I have a higher than average EQ / EI and pick things up (that i'm interested in) really quickly but whatever it is that i have, seems to be getting worse.
I need tasks explained to me and broken down so i have a clear understanding of what i am supposed to do, and i lose focus really quickly if i don't 'get it'
I am fine in a classroom environment, either virtual or physical but i just can't sit there on a portal, trawling through static resources and task lists.
Any help would be appreciated.
I obsess over things that interest me and I learn and remember every detail. I spend hours reading and watching documentary/explanation videos. The trouble is, none of these things are particularly useful in day to day life. How nuclear reactors and nuclear submarines work, radio communications, the telephone system, railways and railway signalling and operation, how to rebuild and repair complex machinery. etc.
I read a lot of world news, general knowledge, and so on. If someone sat and had a conversation with me, they would assume I was well-read, well educated, and intelligent. My exam results and school reports would absolutely suggest otherwise.
My exam results for school and university were average at best, because I simply wasn't interested one jot and did not want to be there, neither at school nor university. I could not concentrate on any of it, and did not find it interesting. I would do anything except learn the stuff I was supposed to be leaning about. All I wanted to do at school was computer programming stuff and other technical things, but that wasn't available and it was all Latin, Chemistry, Biology, English, History blah blah... The teachers used to say they couldn't work out what was wrong with me, as neither threatening me, or encouraging me, would yield any results at all.
When I tried to learn anything, other than what I was interested in, I would get as far as one paragraph and just stop. My brain was going berserk at the idea of trying to force information in, that wasn't interesting. I felt like I was having a mental fit of some kind.
At the age of 41, nothing has changed. When attempting to complete my work (writing reports, reading complex contract documents, interpreting spreadsheets etc) I get a feeling like my brain is 'fizzing' and I am almost totally unable to concentrate.
It is a somewhat of a living nightmare, and I have spent my working life feeling like I was still at school with an assignment needing to be submitted tomorrow, and I haven't managed to force myself to do it just yet. I truly have to force myself to do stuff.
What I am good at is logic, reasoning, decision making, and despite my inability to concentrate, I am good with people, and good at managing relationships between people. I have managed to successfully build a business and sell it, and have worked my way up into a good career position by playing on the things I know I'm good such as managing people and delegating, at and trying to avoid the actual 'delivery of stuff' as I know I will just be crap at it.
I find working at home pretty hard at times, as I just can't function with me and a laptop on my own, the same as I couldn't function as a schoolboy on his own trying to do homework, and failing. I'm much better in an office or workplace, with people around me asking for my advice and help, and asking me to make decisions. When left on my own to turn out a piece of work I get very anxious and almost disorientated.
It is really hard at times though. I have often thought there is something 'wrong' with me, but then I just wonder what the point would be in finding out the label of it, because I already know my weaknesses and try to manage things accordingly.
Good luck, whatever you decide to do.
Lord Marylebone said:
For what it's worth, I experience somewhat similar issues.
I obsess over things that interest me and I learn and remember every detail. I spend hours reading and watching documentary/explanation videos. The trouble is, none of these things are particularly useful in day to day life. How nuclear reactors and nuclear submarines work, radio communications, the telephone system, railways and railway signalling and operation, how to rebuild and repair complex machinery. etc.
I read a lot of world news, general knowledge, and so on. If someone sat and had a conversation with me, they would assume I was well-read, well educated, and intelligent. My exam results and school reports would absolutely suggest otherwise.
My exam results for school and university were average at best, because I simply wasn't interested one jot and did not want to be there, neither at school nor university. I could not concentrate on any of it, and did not find it interesting. I would do anything except learn the stuff I was supposed to be leaning about. All I wanted to do at school was computer programming stuff and other technical things, but that wasn't available and it was all Latin, Chemistry, Biology, English, History blah blah... The teachers used to say they couldn't work out what was wrong with me, as neither threatening me, or encouraging me, would yield any results at all.
When I tried to learn anything, other than what I was interested in, I would get as far as one paragraph and just stop. My brain was going berserk at the idea of trying to force information in, that wasn't interesting. I felt like I was having a mental fit of some kind.
At the age of 41, nothing has changed. When attempting to complete my work (writing reports, reading complex contract documents, interpreting spreadsheets etc) I get a feeling like my brain is 'fizzing' and I am almost totally unable to concentrate.
It is a somewhat of a living nightmare, and I have spent my working life feeling like I was still at school with an assignment needing to be submitted tomorrow, and I haven't managed to force myself to do it just yet. I truly have to force myself to do stuff.
What I am good at is logic, reasoning, decision making, and despite my inability to concentrate, I am good with people, and good at managing relationships between people. I have managed to successfully build a business and sell it, and have worked my way up into a good career position by playing on the things I know I'm good such as managing people and delegating, at and trying to avoid the actual 'delivery of stuff' as I know I will just be crap at it.
I find working at home pretty hard at times, as I just can't function with me and a laptop on my own, the same as I couldn't function as a schoolboy on his own trying to do homework, and failing. I'm much better in an office or workplace, with people around me asking for my advice and help, and asking me to make decisions. When left on my own to turn out a piece of work I get very anxious and almost disorientated.
It is really hard at times though. I have often thought there is something 'wrong' with me, but then I just wonder what the point would be in finding out the label of it, because I already know my weaknesses and try to manage things accordingly.
Good luck, whatever you decide to do.
Wow, this describes me too. Any ideas of what it could be? Some sort of ADHD/Autism?I obsess over things that interest me and I learn and remember every detail. I spend hours reading and watching documentary/explanation videos. The trouble is, none of these things are particularly useful in day to day life. How nuclear reactors and nuclear submarines work, radio communications, the telephone system, railways and railway signalling and operation, how to rebuild and repair complex machinery. etc.
I read a lot of world news, general knowledge, and so on. If someone sat and had a conversation with me, they would assume I was well-read, well educated, and intelligent. My exam results and school reports would absolutely suggest otherwise.
My exam results for school and university were average at best, because I simply wasn't interested one jot and did not want to be there, neither at school nor university. I could not concentrate on any of it, and did not find it interesting. I would do anything except learn the stuff I was supposed to be leaning about. All I wanted to do at school was computer programming stuff and other technical things, but that wasn't available and it was all Latin, Chemistry, Biology, English, History blah blah... The teachers used to say they couldn't work out what was wrong with me, as neither threatening me, or encouraging me, would yield any results at all.
When I tried to learn anything, other than what I was interested in, I would get as far as one paragraph and just stop. My brain was going berserk at the idea of trying to force information in, that wasn't interesting. I felt like I was having a mental fit of some kind.
At the age of 41, nothing has changed. When attempting to complete my work (writing reports, reading complex contract documents, interpreting spreadsheets etc) I get a feeling like my brain is 'fizzing' and I am almost totally unable to concentrate.
It is a somewhat of a living nightmare, and I have spent my working life feeling like I was still at school with an assignment needing to be submitted tomorrow, and I haven't managed to force myself to do it just yet. I truly have to force myself to do stuff.
What I am good at is logic, reasoning, decision making, and despite my inability to concentrate, I am good with people, and good at managing relationships between people. I have managed to successfully build a business and sell it, and have worked my way up into a good career position by playing on the things I know I'm good such as managing people and delegating, at and trying to avoid the actual 'delivery of stuff' as I know I will just be crap at it.
I find working at home pretty hard at times, as I just can't function with me and a laptop on my own, the same as I couldn't function as a schoolboy on his own trying to do homework, and failing. I'm much better in an office or workplace, with people around me asking for my advice and help, and asking me to make decisions. When left on my own to turn out a piece of work I get very anxious and almost disorientated.
It is really hard at times though. I have often thought there is something 'wrong' with me, but then I just wonder what the point would be in finding out the label of it, because I already know my weaknesses and try to manage things accordingly.
Good luck, whatever you decide to do.
sparkyhx said:
Pixelpeep 135 said:
Thank you for this - The WURS test showed i was just on the side of "you are likely to be suffering with ADHD" score. AQ was low or none.
I'll speak to the GP and get an idea of wait times, and then look into private if it's too long.
the AQ is an old test - see if you can get hold of the RAADS-R test - this is better and more reliable - however unless you were 'masking' then it looks like you don't have ASD however there is another test they do to highlight when people are masking, but that's not generally available.I'll speak to the GP and get an idea of wait times, and then look into private if it's too long.
The ADHD might be worth a look based on your score, if you don't qualify for a diagnosis and treatment at least you can be better informed and maybe utilise some of the behavioural techniques
The main ones are Psychiatry UK and ADHD 360. They do diagnosis but even these have waiting lists, and then there is an even longer one for treatment after the diagnosis. So take the initial quoted waiting list with a pinch of salt. check out Aspireautismconsultancy they can do screenings and signpost you to other resources (currently quicker ones).
Scoring range: 0–240
Threshold score: 65↑
65+ you are likely autistic (no neurotypical scored above 64 in the research)
<65 you are likely not autistic (97% chance of not being autistic)
i scored 65. bloody typical lol
Lord Marylebone said:
Pixelpeep 135 said:
Morning all,
Does anyone have any good resources in order to carry out a screening for autism / add type conditions please? i don't mind paying - not looking for freebees here
Background:
Over the last 7 years or so i have had a number of distance learning courses which were learner led, no real time content, all pre-recorded and online resources of stored info. I have always done really bad with these. I failed in most spectacular fashion a CBCI course a few years back and have since been put on a bloody apprenticeship customer service course which i am really struggling with.
So bad my progress was that they referred me to a 'specialist' learning coach who after listening to me rant for two hours about how much stress and anxiety i build up with these courses suggested i should get looked at for:
Dyscalcuila
ASD
Hyper Activity Disorder
I am extremely good with data/analysis - have passed train driver attention to detail assessments in the past so i'm not what i'd describe as dim. I have a higher than average EQ / EI and pick things up (that i'm interested in) really quickly but whatever it is that i have, seems to be getting worse.
I need tasks explained to me and broken down so i have a clear understanding of what i am supposed to do, and i lose focus really quickly if i don't 'get it'
I am fine in a classroom environment, either virtual or physical but i just can't sit there on a portal, trawling through static resources and task lists.
Any help would be appreciated.
For what it's worth, I experience somewhat similar issues.Does anyone have any good resources in order to carry out a screening for autism / add type conditions please? i don't mind paying - not looking for freebees here
Background:
Over the last 7 years or so i have had a number of distance learning courses which were learner led, no real time content, all pre-recorded and online resources of stored info. I have always done really bad with these. I failed in most spectacular fashion a CBCI course a few years back and have since been put on a bloody apprenticeship customer service course which i am really struggling with.
So bad my progress was that they referred me to a 'specialist' learning coach who after listening to me rant for two hours about how much stress and anxiety i build up with these courses suggested i should get looked at for:
Dyscalcuila
ASD
Hyper Activity Disorder
I am extremely good with data/analysis - have passed train driver attention to detail assessments in the past so i'm not what i'd describe as dim. I have a higher than average EQ / EI and pick things up (that i'm interested in) really quickly but whatever it is that i have, seems to be getting worse.
I need tasks explained to me and broken down so i have a clear understanding of what i am supposed to do, and i lose focus really quickly if i don't 'get it'
I am fine in a classroom environment, either virtual or physical but i just can't sit there on a portal, trawling through static resources and task lists.
Any help would be appreciated.
I obsess over things that interest me and I learn and remember every detail. I spend hours reading and watching documentary/explanation videos. The trouble is, none of these things are particularly useful in day to day life. How nuclear reactors and nuclear submarines work, radio communications, the telephone system, railways and railway signalling and operation, how to rebuild and repair complex machinery. etc.
I read a lot of world news, general knowledge, and so on. If someone sat and had a conversation with me, they would assume I was well-read, well educated, and intelligent. My exam results and school reports would absolutely suggest otherwise.
My exam results for school and university were average at best, because I simply wasn't interested one jot and did not want to be there, neither at school nor university. I could not concentrate on any of it, and did not find it interesting. I would do anything except learn the stuff I was supposed to be leaning about. All I wanted to do at school was computer programming stuff and other technical things, but that wasn't available and it was all Latin, Chemistry, Biology, English, History blah blah... The teachers used to say they couldn't work out what was wrong with me, as neither threatening me, or encouraging me, would yield any results at all.
When I tried to learn anything, other than what I was interested in, I would get as far as one paragraph and just stop. My brain was going berserk at the idea of trying to force information in, that wasn't interesting. I felt like I was having a mental fit of some kind.
At the age of 41, nothing has changed. When attempting to complete my work (writing reports, reading complex contract documents, interpreting spreadsheets etc) I get a feeling like my brain is 'fizzing' and I am almost totally unable to concentrate.
It is a somewhat of a living nightmare, and I have spent my working life feeling like I was still at school with an assignment needing to be submitted tomorrow, and I haven't managed to force myself to do it just yet. I truly have to force myself to do stuff.
What I am good at is logic, reasoning, decision making, and despite my inability to concentrate, I am good with people, and good at managing relationships between people. I have managed to successfully build a business and sell it, and have worked my way up into a good career position by playing on the things I know I'm good such as managing people and delegating, at and trying to avoid the actual 'delivery of stuff' as I know I will just be crap at it.
I find working at home pretty hard at times, as I just can't function with me and a laptop on my own, the same as I couldn't function as a schoolboy on his own trying to do homework, and failing. I'm much better in an office or workplace, with people around me asking for my advice and help, and asking me to make decisions. When left on my own to turn out a piece of work I get very anxious and almost disorientated.
It is really hard at times though. I have often thought there is something 'wrong' with me, but then I just wonder what the point would be in finding out the label of it, because I already know my weaknesses and try to manage things accordingly.
Good luck, whatever you decide to do.
Lord Marylebone said:
It is really hard at times though. I have often thought there is something 'wrong' with me, but then I just wonder what the point would be in finding out the label of it, because I already know my weaknesses and try to manage things accordingly.
On this - my Mrs was recently diagnosed with ADD and it's been really helpful as she can now understand and rationalise a lot of her behaviours. For her it's not only trouble focussing but it seems ADD has a bunch of other impacts on your life / state of mind which she now feels she can at least rationalise and work with. Additionally there are drugs that can help but there's testing beyond initial diagnosis required before those can be prescribed - so for her the benefit has been a lot more than just a label.towser said:
Lord Marylebone said:
It is really hard at times though. I have often thought there is something 'wrong' with me, but then I just wonder what the point would be in finding out the label of it, because I already know my weaknesses and try to manage things accordingly.
On this - my Mrs was recently diagnosed with ADD and it's been really helpful as she can now understand and rationalise a lot of her behaviours. For her it's not only trouble focussing but it seems ADD has a bunch of other impacts on your life / state of mind which she now feels she can at least rationalise and work with. Additionally there are drugs that can help but there's testing beyond initial diagnosis required before those can be prescribed - so for her the benefit has been a lot more than just a label.Lord Marylebone said:
For what it's worth, I experience somewhat similar issues.
I obsess over things that interest me and I learn and remember every detail. I spend hours reading and watching documentary/explanation videos. The trouble is, none of these things are particularly useful in day to day life. How nuclear reactors and nuclear submarines work, radio communications, the telephone system, railways and railway signalling and operation, how to rebuild and repair complex machinery. etc.
I read a lot of world news, general knowledge, and so on. If someone sat and had a conversation with me, they would assume I was well-read, well educated, and intelligent. My exam results and school reports would absolutely suggest otherwise.
My exam results for school and university were average at best, because I simply wasn't interested one jot and did not want to be there, neither at school nor university. I could not concentrate on any of it, and did not find it interesting. I would do anything except learn the stuff I was supposed to be leaning about. All I wanted to do at school was computer programming stuff and other technical things, but that wasn't available and it was all Latin, Chemistry, Biology, English, History blah blah... The teachers used to say they couldn't work out what was wrong with me, as neither threatening me, or encouraging me, would yield any results at all.
When I tried to learn anything, other than what I was interested in, I would get as far as one paragraph and just stop. My brain was going berserk at the idea of trying to force information in, that wasn't interesting. I felt like I was having a mental fit of some kind.
At the age of 41, nothing has changed. When attempting to complete my work (writing reports, reading complex contract documents, interpreting spreadsheets etc) I get a feeling like my brain is 'fizzing' and I amalmost totally unable to concentrate.
It is a somewhat of a living nightmare, and I have spent my working life feeling like I was still at school with an assignment needing to be submitted tomorrow, and I haven't managed to force myself to do it just yet. I truly have to force myself to do stuff.
What I am good at is logic, reasoning, decision making, and despite my inability to concentrate, I am good with people, and good at managing relationships between people. I have managed to successfully build a business and sell it, and have worked my way up into a good career position by playing on the things I know I'm good such as managing people and delegating, at and trying to avoid the actual 'delivery of stuff' as I know I will just be crap at it.
I find working at home pretty hard at times, as I just can't function with me and a laptop on my own, the same as I couldn't function as a schoolboy on his own trying to do homework, and failing. I'm much better in an office or workplace, with people around me asking for my advice and help, and asking me to make decisions. When left on my own to turn out a piece of work I get very anxious and almost disorientated.
It is really hard at times though. I have often thought there is something 'wrong' with me, but then I just wonder what the point would be in finding out the label of it, because I already know my weaknesses and try to manage things accordingly.
Good luck, whatever you decide to do.
My experiences have been very similar to yours, I think we may have also cross-posted on the Adult ADHD thread. I obsess over things that interest me and I learn and remember every detail. I spend hours reading and watching documentary/explanation videos. The trouble is, none of these things are particularly useful in day to day life. How nuclear reactors and nuclear submarines work, radio communications, the telephone system, railways and railway signalling and operation, how to rebuild and repair complex machinery. etc.
I read a lot of world news, general knowledge, and so on. If someone sat and had a conversation with me, they would assume I was well-read, well educated, and intelligent. My exam results and school reports would absolutely suggest otherwise.
My exam results for school and university were average at best, because I simply wasn't interested one jot and did not want to be there, neither at school nor university. I could not concentrate on any of it, and did not find it interesting. I would do anything except learn the stuff I was supposed to be leaning about. All I wanted to do at school was computer programming stuff and other technical things, but that wasn't available and it was all Latin, Chemistry, Biology, English, History blah blah... The teachers used to say they couldn't work out what was wrong with me, as neither threatening me, or encouraging me, would yield any results at all.
When I tried to learn anything, other than what I was interested in, I would get as far as one paragraph and just stop. My brain was going berserk at the idea of trying to force information in, that wasn't interesting. I felt like I was having a mental fit of some kind.
At the age of 41, nothing has changed. When attempting to complete my work (writing reports, reading complex contract documents, interpreting spreadsheets etc) I get a feeling like my brain is 'fizzing' and I amalmost totally unable to concentrate.
It is a somewhat of a living nightmare, and I have spent my working life feeling like I was still at school with an assignment needing to be submitted tomorrow, and I haven't managed to force myself to do it just yet. I truly have to force myself to do stuff.
What I am good at is logic, reasoning, decision making, and despite my inability to concentrate, I am good with people, and good at managing relationships between people. I have managed to successfully build a business and sell it, and have worked my way up into a good career position by playing on the things I know I'm good such as managing people and delegating, at and trying to avoid the actual 'delivery of stuff' as I know I will just be crap at it.
I find working at home pretty hard at times, as I just can't function with me and a laptop on my own, the same as I couldn't function as a schoolboy on his own trying to do homework, and failing. I'm much better in an office or workplace, with people around me asking for my advice and help, and asking me to make decisions. When left on my own to turn out a piece of work I get very anxious and almost disorientated.
It is really hard at times though. I have often thought there is something 'wrong' with me, but then I just wonder what the point would be in finding out the label of it, because I already know my weaknesses and try to manage things accordingly.
Good luck, whatever you decide to do.
the bits in bold particularly resonate with me although I was able to do well at school up to A levels (although not the REALLY WELL that I was expected to). University (very traditional style) somewhat less so, hmm.
I am also quite physical and enjoy demanding activities. It bemuses people that I appear a bit of a contradiction. An articulate, apparently cerebral, chap who loves action, rough sports, speed and gets stuck in.
I did get an ADHD diagnosis. I don't display autistic traits.
I met up with a local informal support group and speaking with others with similar lives was a revelation. I am now on medication.
I have become a little more disciplined in making and following to-do lists, and following things through.
I soon left my unsuitable (but well paid) job and am in the process of starting a new job that is far more suited to my broad range of knowledge and interests than the ones I've had for the past 20-odd years. There really is no point flogging a dead horse, even if it is the horse that you always thought you should be using.
Edited by Woodrow Wilson on Monday 14th November 15:05
s1962a said:
Wow, this describes me too. Any ideas of what it could be? Some sort of ADHD/Autism?
I honestly don't know, but I'm assuming some kind of ADHD or possibly Anxiety.towser said:
On this - my Mrs was recently diagnosed with ADD and it's been really helpful as she can now understand and rationalise a lot of her behaviours. For her it's not only trouble focussing but it seems ADD has a bunch of other impacts on your life / state of mind which she now feels she can at least rationalise and work with. Additionally there are drugs that can help but there's testing beyond initial diagnosis required before those can be prescribed - so for her the benefit has been a lot more than just a label.
That is really interesting. Thanks. Some good points.Woodrow Wilson said:
My experiences have been very similar to yours, I think we may have also cross-posted on the Adult ADHD thread.
the bits in bold particularly resonate with me although I was able to do well at school up to A levels (although not the REALLY WELL that I was expected to). University (very traditional style) somewhat less so, hmm.
I am also quite physical and enjoy demanding activities. It bemuses people that I appear a bit of a contradiction. An articulate, apparently cerebral, chap who loves action, rough sports, speed and gets stuck in.
I did get an ADHD diagnosis. I don't display autistic traits.
I met up with a local informal support group and speaking with others with similar lives was a revelation. I am now on medication.
I have become a little more disciplined in making and following to-do lists, and following things through.
I soon left my unsuitable (but well paid) job and am in the process of starting a new job that is far more suited to my broad range of knowledge and interests than the ones I've had for the past 20-odd years. There really is no point flogging a dead horse, even if it is the horse that you always thought you should be using.
Totally agree.the bits in bold particularly resonate with me although I was able to do well at school up to A levels (although not the REALLY WELL that I was expected to). University (very traditional style) somewhat less so, hmm.
I am also quite physical and enjoy demanding activities. It bemuses people that I appear a bit of a contradiction. An articulate, apparently cerebral, chap who loves action, rough sports, speed and gets stuck in.
I did get an ADHD diagnosis. I don't display autistic traits.
I met up with a local informal support group and speaking with others with similar lives was a revelation. I am now on medication.
I have become a little more disciplined in making and following to-do lists, and following things through.
I soon left my unsuitable (but well paid) job and am in the process of starting a new job that is far more suited to my broad range of knowledge and interests than the ones I've had for the past 20-odd years. There really is no point flogging a dead horse, even if it is the horse that you always thought you should be using.
I too am a contradiction. I'm articulate, polite, well spoken, appear intelligent, and fully up to speed on complex world affairs and so on, yet was never ever happier than when I was doing something all day long like driving a tractor on a farm, delivery driving in a van, or operating an excavator on a building site. All of which I have done during my A Level and University years. I find I can do practical and spacial stuff all day long.
Of course naturally the career I chose was one that was 'expected' of me, and a world away from what I actually enjoyed. 20 years later I am beginning to think I am perhaps at some sort of crossroads, and like you, I may need to decide what I do for the next 20 or 30.
This isn't just a simple case of enjoying one thing and not another. Many people don't love academically demanding office work, but they manage it without issue, and without the searing brain fizz that attacks them whenever they sit down to do it. I believe in my case I do have an ADHD or high functioning autism issue of some sort that prohibits me from academic type work.
Lord Marylebone said:
Totally agree.
I too am a contradiction. I'm articulate, polite, well spoken, appear intelligent, and fully up to speed on complex world affairs and so on, yet was never ever happier than when I was doing something all day long like driving a tractor on a farm, delivery driving in a van, or operating an excavator on a building site. All of which I have done during my A Level and University years. I find I can do practical and spacial stuff all day long.
Of course naturally the career I chose was one that was 'expected' of me, and a world away from what I actually enjoyed. 20 years later I am beginning to think I am perhaps at some sort of crossroads, and like you, I may need to decide what I do for the next 20 or 30.
This isn't just a simple case of enjoying one thing and not another. Many people don't love academically demanding office work, but they manage it without issue, and without the searing brain fizz that attacks them whenever they sit down to do it. I believe in my case I do have an ADHD or high functioning autism issue of some sort that prohibits me from academic type work.
Same here. I too am a contradiction. I'm articulate, polite, well spoken, appear intelligent, and fully up to speed on complex world affairs and so on, yet was never ever happier than when I was doing something all day long like driving a tractor on a farm, delivery driving in a van, or operating an excavator on a building site. All of which I have done during my A Level and University years. I find I can do practical and spacial stuff all day long.
Of course naturally the career I chose was one that was 'expected' of me, and a world away from what I actually enjoyed. 20 years later I am beginning to think I am perhaps at some sort of crossroads, and like you, I may need to decide what I do for the next 20 or 30.
This isn't just a simple case of enjoying one thing and not another. Many people don't love academically demanding office work, but they manage it without issue, and without the searing brain fizz that attacks them whenever they sit down to do it. I believe in my case I do have an ADHD or high functioning autism issue of some sort that prohibits me from academic type work.
People (of various types) make assumptions about me and are then surprised (or disappointed...) that I'm different to what they expected and that confuses them. It has happened all of my life. I find that quite amusing. I am able to mix with all kinds of people, though. I know about all kinds of things and the ability to relate.
Put a suit on me I fit in. Put manual work clothes on I fit in. Put sports kit on, I fit in.
I'm not very well suited to much of modern desk work.
I am quite a good mentor/instructor and arguer. I talk a lot, but can say the right things when it matters. I'm good in meetings. I enjoy writing and I am good at it.
Edited by Woodrow Wilson on Monday 14th November 16:26
Pixelpeep 135 said:
sparkyhx said:
Pixelpeep 135 said:
Thank you for this - The WURS test showed i was just on the side of "you are likely to be suffering with ADHD" score. AQ was low or none.
I'll speak to the GP and get an idea of wait times, and then look into private if it's too long.
the AQ is an old test - see if you can get hold of the RAADS-R test - this is better and more reliable - however unless you were 'masking' then it looks like you don't have ASD however there is another test they do to highlight when people are masking, but that's not generally available.I'll speak to the GP and get an idea of wait times, and then look into private if it's too long.
The ADHD might be worth a look based on your score, if you don't qualify for a diagnosis and treatment at least you can be better informed and maybe utilise some of the behavioural techniques
The main ones are Psychiatry UK and ADHD 360. They do diagnosis but even these have waiting lists, and then there is an even longer one for treatment after the diagnosis. So take the initial quoted waiting list with a pinch of salt. check out Aspireautismconsultancy they can do screenings and signpost you to other resources (currently quicker ones).
Scoring range: 0–240
Threshold score: 65?
65+ you are likely autistic (no neurotypical scored above 64 in the research)
<65 you are likely not autistic (97% chance of not being autistic)
i scored 65. bloody typical lol
thats interesting, scoring low on AQ but threshold on RADDS-R - Like I said probably pursue ADHD first as there are effective treatments. There are a lot of overlaps with ASD and ADHD, so ADHD can sometimes 'look like' ASD. Having said that ASD and ADHD often co-exist.
sparkyhx said:
Pixelpeep 135 said:
sparkyhx said:
Pixelpeep 135 said:
Thank you for this - The WURS test showed i was just on the side of "you are likely to be suffering with ADHD" score. AQ was low or none.
I'll speak to the GP and get an idea of wait times, and then look into private if it's too long.
the AQ is an old test - see if you can get hold of the RAADS-R test - this is better and more reliable - however unless you were 'masking' then it looks like you don't have ASD however there is another test they do to highlight when people are masking, but that's not generally available.I'll speak to the GP and get an idea of wait times, and then look into private if it's too long.
The ADHD might be worth a look based on your score, if you don't qualify for a diagnosis and treatment at least you can be better informed and maybe utilise some of the behavioural techniques
The main ones are Psychiatry UK and ADHD 360. They do diagnosis but even these have waiting lists, and then there is an even longer one for treatment after the diagnosis. So take the initial quoted waiting list with a pinch of salt. check out Aspireautismconsultancy they can do screenings and signpost you to other resources (currently quicker ones).
Scoring range: 0–240
Threshold score: 65?
65+ you are likely autistic (no neurotypical scored above 64 in the research)
<65 you are likely not autistic (97% chance of not being autistic)
i scored 65. bloody typical lol
thats interesting, scoring low on AQ but threshold on RADDS-R - Like I said probably pursue ADHD first as there are effective treatments. There are a lot of overlaps with ASD and ADHD, so ADHD can sometimes 'look like' ASD. Having said that ASD and ADHD often co-exist.
63
I do have ADHD.
I wouldn't describe myself as autistic. I probably have some of the same characteristics, especially some sensory over-sensitivity and I do spot details (although I'm not detail focused), but not any of the particularly problematic ones. I'm unusual, but mainly as a *bit* of a polymath. I'm extrovert in that I'm not loud or flamboyant, but I read people well, pick up on subtleties, enjoy making conversation and debate. I function well and confidently with others.
Edited by Woodrow Wilson on Tuesday 15th November 21:24
Timely thread, after being on the NHS waiting list for over a year I stumped up £400 to ‘MyPace’ for a private diagnosis last week.
They were great, confirmed my thoughts (I have ADD) and are now supporting me through the next stage of looking at drugs to help.
All going well my local GP surgery might do ‘Shared care’ meaning I don’t need to stump up a fortune for my prescription.
So some online research, do some online tests, join the ADHD Facebook group for your area of the UK and get a feel for what support is like in your area. I discovered that where I stay has very little support, which is why I went private.
They were great, confirmed my thoughts (I have ADD) and are now supporting me through the next stage of looking at drugs to help.
All going well my local GP surgery might do ‘Shared care’ meaning I don’t need to stump up a fortune for my prescription.
So some online research, do some online tests, join the ADHD Facebook group for your area of the UK and get a feel for what support is like in your area. I discovered that where I stay has very little support, which is why I went private.
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