After my daughter was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), I immersed myself in research to better support her. This journey led me to a startling realization: I might also be affected by ADD. Throughout my life, I had always felt disorganized, a champion of procrastination, and often found it difficult to start or finish tasks. I would frequently wonder how others, seemingly busier than myself, managed to accomplish so much while I struggled to pay my bills on time. Eventually, a medical professional confirmed my suspicions—I, too, had ADD. Suddenly, years of behavior that had caused me embarrassment and frustration began to make sense.
So, what does living with ADD really look like? Here’s a glimpse into my week:
Monday
I awaken to find a postcard from the County Court stuck to the refrigerator by my husband. It informs me that I missed jury duty two weeks ago and could face a fine. I call the number listed on the card and find relief in dealing with an automated system instead of explaining my oversight to an actual person. I know the original jury summons is likely buried among a chaotic pile of bills, photos, my daughter’s artwork, and other miscellaneous items cluttering my kitchen counter.
Tuesday
My phone rings, displaying my credit card company’s number. Frustrated, I ignore it and scroll through social media instead. I remember paying my last bill, and assume they are just reminding me to activate my new card that I can’t seem to find. To my dismay, upon checking my account, I discover my payment is overdue. How did that happen? I reluctantly make the payment, calculating the cost of my oversight.
Wednesday
I have a dermatologist appointment scheduled for the afternoon, but neglected to write it down on my calendar. I think I remember where the reminder card is, but it turns out I dropped it in the clutter. After a frantic search, I finally find it under a glass of water, only to realize my appointment is actually in just a few minutes. Rushing out with damp hair and sweatpants, I arrive five minutes late, trying to ignore the stares while processing my anxiety about the biopsy for a spot I fear is serious.
Thursday
I scramble to finish an essay for a contest with a looming deadline that night. Despite knowing about it for months, I only started writing yesterday. While reviewing my progress, I remember it’s also my daughter’s back-to-school night. I convince myself I can finish the essay afterward. By 10:30 PM, I’m nearly done when panic strikes—was that deadline midnight my time or Eastern Time? I check the rules and realize I’ve missed the submission window entirely.
Friday
The renewal notice for my car registration arrives, and I’m reminded of the procrastination that led to a late payment. I tell myself I’ll take care of it soon, but fatigue and hunger drive me to toss the envelope into the kitchen basket. Surely, I won’t get another ticket for expired tags, right?
Saturday
I’m baffled by the continued calls from my credit card company. Checking my bank account reveals that my payment never went through. Frustrated, I resend it, triple-checking to ensure it processes successfully.
Sunday
I rush to the ATM to deposit various checks I’ve accumulated—my mother’s birthday check from July, payment for an article I wrote months ago, and insurance claims I barely filed on time. I drive away without withdrawing cash, which might be a blessing since I’ll need money to cover those late fees and a potential ticket from the DMV.
As I reflect on my week, I realize it wasn’t a total disaster. I managed to complete an essay, get my daughter to school on time, feed and walk the dogs, prepare meals, and even picked up my husband’s dry cleaning. Best of all, the biopsy I put off for over a year came back normal.
I briefly experimented with medication for my ADD, but it wasn’t effective for me. However, understanding that my behaviors have a biological basis has been a tremendous relief. I’ve found support groups helpful, as well as breaking tasks into smaller steps, using short to-do lists on my phone, and incorporating exercise into my routine. I now pay my bills on time most months and haven’t received calls from collectors in over a year.
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In summary, living with ADD presents a unique set of challenges that can often feel overwhelming. However, with the right strategies and support, it is possible to manage the symptoms and lead a fulfilling life.
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