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I Have Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)

Have you ever noticed that most people don't pay attention or focus? I have always struggled with Attention Deficit. It's hard for me to focus well, but the more I'm around people the more I see that most people don't pay attention. I work with the public and often have to repeat myself over and over to get my point across. They don't pay attention to what's right in front of them. They can't keep up with anything. It seems most people just space through life. I am not being all that critical of people, I'm just making an observation. Although it irks me they way people expect kids to stay focused but can't or won't focus or keep up with anything themselves.

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Melies

I have ADD, but take meds. The good news it gives you "beginners mind". And it tends to make you creative.

Cloud7593 · 46-50, F

@Melies what do you mean beginners mind? I took ADD meds for a while but now take an antidepressant.

Melies

Look it up - Beginner’s Mind - a book on zen by the late Zen Buddhist teacher, Suzuki. It means you are always starting fresh, and thus might see many alternative paths to solve a problem, as opposed to an “expert” who “knows” just one.

Cloud7593 · 46-50, F

A friend of mine, he's 71, said ADD/ADHD didn't exist when you guys were growing up. He said not paying attn was just not tolerated and would get you your butt busted. He claimed it worked. I feel sorry for you if that was the case. Although it was more or less the same way when I was growing up. In a lot of ways now though people put kids on medication because they're too lazy to discipline.

Melies

No “discipline” will overcome ADD. It’s just the way an individual is wired neurologically. I’m older than your friend. I’ve always had it. You can use coping strategies, but that will only get you so far.