[MJR]

You're right, there is a difference between not being able to maintain focus and getting bored easily. Though that is often difficult to discern when you're in the middle of dealing with it. I'm also a motivated self-teacher, but ADD gets in the way of my motivation and focus, and at times makes it difficult for me to finish or work on the things that I want to get done.

I don't know if you're arguing with what I said, or if you thought I was criticizing the author, which I'm not. I saw two keywords and for me they line up with a list of symptoms which I know can be quite troubling if you think you are to blame for being lazy or not able to accomplish the things you want in life because you keep getting in your own way. It's a difficult nut to crack, but if you think you might also suffer from ADD, it's wise to research it and speak to someone who can offer a diagnosis and help you find a solution that works for you.

[swishercutter]

Sometimes I think ADD/ADHD is overdiagnosed on a massive scale...I can get a bit touchy about it sometimes...the author was explaining ways to cope without medication.

I worry for the young geniuses who are currently being dumbed down to the national standard with medication in order to stop them reading ahead in class...I am fortunate to be old enough to have missed it.

Edit: I am not trying to knock anyone that medication has worked for, or saying you are stupid for taking it...just pointing out (my opinion of) what happens when you give it to someone who does not need it.

[MJR]

I've never experienced or read about ADD/ADHD medication having the effect of dumbing down anyone. Normally the medications for ADD fall into the stimulant categories which on the ADD mind have the effect of slowing down thought to allow it to be processed more efficiently rather than having to sort through a mind of racing thoughts. But I do agree that misdiagnosis is easier with ADD because it can be an easy way out.

I have a problem with the word cope, which is often used in these scenarios. I don't want to cope - I want to live, flourish and think. Everyone is different and there is no answer that will cover all situations. But I encourage everyone to explore all the options and make the decision after some trial, before ruling anything out. Especially when we're talking about adults.