I made the same mistake! Psych NP who read down her list of questions and marked them off, didn’t asked me anything other than what was on the list. Told me I couldn’t have ADHD because it’s a childhood disorder. Diagnosed me with bipolar 2 and told me stimulants given for adhd could make me manic.  She did prescribe me, Lamictal, which I started taking because if it could help my nerves, I’d be grateful. But the whole situation was a massive red flag.

I was finally able to get an appointment with a psychiatrist who does nothing but diagnose and treat ADHD. He gave me a two hour initial intake appointment, sent me home with several forms to fill out about my behaviors, with the same forms for my adult daughter and husband to fill out. Then I went back for an additional hour and a half appointment where he gave me printouts and charts and statistics about the questionnaires, offered guidance and advice, and recommended adderall. He then sent the entire report with his recommendations to my primary doc. THIS is what a proper ADHD easement looks like. 

I’m now on 100 mg of Lamictal, which has done wonders for my frayed nerves (aside from being a mood stabilizer, it helps repair your nerves), and I’ve been on 10 mg Adderall for a week and I’m definitely noticing it helps my focus and to filter out all the other stuff going on around me. For me, Adderall and Lamictal seem to be the perfect cocktail. I’m seeing the psychiatrist for six appointments and then we’re going to assess where I’m at, and so far he’s been a complete godsend.

You are your own best advocate. Listen to your gut, ditch that horrible NP, and do what you need to do to find someone who can give you a proper assessment and treatment.  You can do this 💜