DU parents and people who have delt with ADD before...

[MiniMandaRuth]

I have a close personal friend who is going through some tough times. She is brilliant and kind but she can't concentrate in class. She always has to be moving and often gets off task. She enjoys her science class but not her math because there are too many distractions. So we had a sit-down today on the bus and talked about it for a good long while. I'm pretty sure she has ADD.

She always moves around.

She always has to be doing something.

She always starts things but almost never finishes them.

But my question is is that she doesn't want to ask her parents for help. I'm worried for her because I want her to get help, but she's afraid to ask for it. If things keep on happening like this, she could drop out of high school (Which could happen. She gets distracted REALLY easily)

Mods, please don't delete this. This is not a medical question. I just want to know what to tell her. And please don't start flaming eachother. I want her to be okay. :cry:

[VespertineIconoclast]

1. You're a good friend to try to help your friend during these tough times.

I have not personally dealt with ADD, but I understand that sometimes in order for a person with a psychiatric or mental disorder to function "properly" they may need to seek medical attention. These disorders manifest through complex interactions that are still not fully understood to create a pathophysiology in the brain. Your friend may not want to involve anyone else in the situation, but other people may be necessary to properly diagnose and treat her condition.

Here may be some helpful sites:
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/adhd_add_diagnosis.htm
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/medicating/adhd/steps.html
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/medicating/adhd/diagnostic.html
http://www.addcoach4u.com/adultaddtest.html

I wish you and your friend the best! :hug:

[KitchenWitch]

2. Suggest she visit the high school counselor

Have her ask if there are any assessments she can take to determine if she would need any services, etc.