New diagnosis: how to advocate for meds and other questions

[composttea]

Hey I am new here and to my diagnosis . Just got it a few months ago. I am now on the processes of trying to get the med that works for me with a doctor who is very serious about treating me for depression first before even starting me on adhd meds. She also is insisting on starting with any and every non stimulant adhd med under the sun before trying stimulants. I am struggling because the wellbutrin to tackle both had some bad affects for me and did not help with most of my adhd stuff. I know many people now and have heard lots of stories of people taking stimulant medications and feeling like a veil was lifted from their heads. I know other non stims could work but the process of finding the right one is taking longer than I feel like I can handle. especially considering I have to find the right depression med first.

How have you been able to advocate for yourself with out sounding like your just in it for the meds?

. Also how do you advocate in general with someone who is maybe doing what they think is best but you don't agree?

If you have co-morbidity like anxiety and depression what was best for you tackling the anxiety and depression or the adhd first?

[B19B]

It can definitely be frustrating...actually even painful to feel like you're not heard or understood...especially when it comes to your mental health!!! I have suffered from A.D.D., major depression, extreme anxiety and PTSD for years...and you are definitely not alone in this!!!

Be specific... as much as you can when sharing your symptoms and how you feel with your doctor. Write down your A.D.D. symptoms that occur regardless of your mood, and other diagnoses. If you are not feeling any relief, whatsoever, from your symptoms, and are growing more and more discouraged...then be direct as possible, and assertive.

Look into having a (gene sight) test done...where a lab can take a look at how your enzymes are absorbing different type of medications, and which medications might work best for you.

Please don't ever give up!!!

[composttea in reply to B19B]

Thank you for the encouragement. It is really frustrating. I like the idea of writing down the symptoms since its so easy to forget things especially in the moment of being with a doctor. Also cool info on the gene test thanks B19B

[Dodger09]

Don’t be afraid to find a new doctor. I highly recommend a psychiatrist that specializes in adhd not just a GP.