I just don't know how to fix myself

[laurentaylor2]

after I left my peds doc and he couldn't prescribe me any more medication I've been going downhill ever since. I am 25 now. have a 3yo son who I have no doubt has add. I just don't know what to do. I want to be better but I get so overwhelmed I forget to do the simple things. I know I need to get back on meds but I don't know how. I have medicaid but I struggle to fix the correct way to do it. please help

[LAJ12345]

what is your diet like? My first approach before meds would be to cut out any additives, junk and processed food and sugar for you and your child. Try eating as many vegetables as you can. Then try to avoid gluten. Try this for a few months and see if you feel any better.

Second try and exercise each day. Go for a walk for an hour.

Make sure you get up earlyish in the morning and go to bed earlyish. Say 10.30pm

Try and stay off screens as much as possible and do old style activities like reading, puzzles, Playgrounds, craft or music to occupy yourself.

These should be the first things to try.

If you can afford it take a good multinutrient . I recommend Hardys daily essential nutrients with added vitamers. Ring their toll free number and ask to talk to a product specialist about add. Their product has been tested for adhd in children for many years.

[GreenMoss]

If you’re struggling with navigating health insurance benefits, I understand! It’s complicated and my ADHD son also gets overwhelmed by the steps. These are the steps we followed, but your specific situation might be different. I’m hoping the breakdown of steps may be useful to you as a guide to get started.

1. Find out the name and customer service number for your medical insurance provider. This info can be found on the insurance card. If you don’t have a card, call your Medicaid case worker to ask how to receive a card.

2. Depending on your level of social anxiety, either set up an online account on the insurance website or call the customer service line.

3. Ask for assistance finding a primary care provider in your area. In our case, we had to get a primary care provider to refer you to a psychiatrist for an ADHD medication evaluation and oversight.

4. Call to set up a new patient appointment with the new primary care provider.

5. Have your pediatric records transferred to your new doctor by calling your pediatrician’s office. This can take them a few weeks to do.

6. During your appointment with your new doctor, explain your ADHD medication history and ask them about how to go about resuming medication. If a psychiatrist is needed, ask for a referral to a psychiatrist in your area that specializes in ADHD. Also ask your doctor if you should set up the appointment or if they will call you to set up the appointment.

7. Set up the appointment with the psychiatrist for ADHD.

I hope this helps!

[MaudQ]

First piece of advice: simplify everything you can. Getting care for yourself is the first priority. Eat, sleep, drink water & get outside.

GreenMoss’s suggestions sound excellent. Also, do you have a trusted family member or friend who can help? I have ADHD and I know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed. Sometimes I need to ask for help reading though stuff, filling out forms etc. Even someone to “body double” ie just sit near you when you work is a huge help.

For your son, have you looked into early childhood intervention? My state offers it for kids who are too young to be in school. If you can get some support for him, it might take some stress off of you.

Hang in there!