Suspected ADHD?

[Aussie.Girl]

I know it's impossible to tell without an official diagnosis, but in my research of trying to figure out why I've always felt different or broken it's seeming increasingly likely that I have undiagnosed ADHD.

I guess I just want someone elses opinion on whether this is a likely possibility, before I pursue the long and expensive task of trying to get an official diagnosis.

I am not currently seeing a psychologist or GP for my mental health (but probably should be; it's just too expensive), however back when I was in school I was diagnosed with OCD, anxiety and panic attacks. 

I've never considered myself hyperactive (more shy and quiet) and achieved excellent marks in school so I didn't even think ADHD was a possibility previously. 

That said, I'm going to list some signs below that seem to fit with symptoms I have found for ADHD.

# Frequent daydreaming.

# I find making decisions (even small inconsequential ones) very difficult and stressful. It took me nearly a year to choose a new tablet when I was looking to replace my 7yr old iPad Air (only to buy an Air 4 because it was most similar).

# Inability to sit still (again I don't consider myself hyperactive, but I usually shake or bounce my leg when sitting, or fiddle with my hands)

# I prefer sitting on my feet, or with my knees up than sitting properly.

# I constantly fidget with jewelry or my hands when speaking to anyone. If I'm really nervous I will sometimes pinch my palm repeatedly to the point where it leaves red marks. 

# I can make eye contact, but I generally look at peoples hair or mouths instead because staring into their eyes makes me uncomfortable.

# Any kind of negative feedback (even constructive criticism) makes me unreasonably embarassed and upset.

# I am almost incapable of completing one task at a time. I end up noticing other things and switching tasks halfway through.

# I frequently multitask to the extent that seems strange to other people. Eg when working on TAFE assignments I would be singing, researching (reading) and then writing an essay without having to stop the song.

# I struggle with procrastination and will avoid doing things until I have to. This also extends to being unable to start doing things I enjoy. 

# I will often forget to eat/drink if I am concentrating on something. 

# I have social anxiety and find it very difficult to connect with people or form lasting friendships.

# High pain tolerance? I'm not sure as pain is very subjective...

Does this sound like ADHD? Or is it anxiety?

[Aussie.Girl]

Additional things that may or may not be relevant:

# I almost exclusively wear loose comfortable clothes. I can't stand skin tight clothing. 

# When I am interested in a particular game/book/song I will engage with it every day for a long period. Then if I move I. To something else and come back to it, I start reading or playing it frequently again. 

# I'm told I speak very quietly, but it sounds loud to my ears? 

# I have very sensitive hearing, but frequently have to ask people to repeat themselves to understand what they've said (or I have to wait until my brain processes what they've said).

Sorry for such a long post. Thank you to anyone who read to the end.

[BeePark]

Hello! I read to the end. I actually identify with a lot of what you have said. I dont have ADHD, but I have been diagnosed with Moderate Anxiety and Depression. Anxiety is a funny thing...its almost like our sub conscious trying to take over in certain situations. I completely identify with the several things at once...I work in an office and I find it almost impossible to concentrate if I dont have something playing in my ears...usually a podcast...Look I know the mental health stuff is expensive..but honestly a good psychologist can really help. And sometimes you do have to try a few till you find one that 'gets you'. At least go to the GP. Get that health plan. From there you can decide how often you would like or can afford to go. I'm going every month at the moment, but could probably do with more sessions...just cannot afford it right now... You could also look into free resources at Beyond Blue, Blackdog and the like...there is a bunch of free mental health resources out there that might at least give you some more thoughts about how you feel. If you are feeling anxious there are some great resource apps to try like 'Calm', Headspace and Smiling Mind. Wishing you well. B.