re: Adult ADD/ADHD experience?

As a kid my teachers had some concerns, and my parents had me evaluated. They were told that I was borderline, but chose not to medicate me. They also didn't try any intervention strategies, so my academics were all over the place.

In college I struggled initially, and got on Concerta. While it worked during the day, I would come down hard in the evenings. Eventually the heart papiltations were too much, and I quit taking it without consulting a physician.

In grad school I had ups and downs again, and began noticing a great deal of anxiety. With my first job I realized how bad things really were. After a long talk with my boss, I went back to the doctor.

After evaluation they talked to me about how my ADD symptoms were creating my anxiety. I was trying to focus but couldn't, and that lead to my stress/anxiety.

I now take Strattera for my symptoms. It isn't a cure all, but it helps a lot without nasty side effects.