Does someone have experience with ADHD out here? Im not sure how to proceed should I go to a mental health proffesional? Or just a regular doctor?
Every time I’ve read about the symptoms and effects of ADHD, I’ve been like “Get out of my head!!”
I’ve had my suspicions for a veery long time but I was in the US and I never had the resources (money) to do anything about it. But now that I live in a country with socialized healthcare (bless Japanese healthcare) I want to look into it.
I’d rather see someone who could speak english as my japanese still isn’t at the level where I could detail what goes on in my messed up little brain:)
Thanks in advance guys.
P.S. No need to warn me about Dr. Burger I’ve gone down that rabbit hole.
4 comments
Please check out the medical resources on the [wiki!](https://www.reddit.com/r/japanlife/wiki/medical)
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/japanlife) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I’ve gained a lot of information from r/ADHD. I’ve heard not so great info about mental health in Japan but best of luck to you.
I saw an English speaking psychiatrist here and was prescribed ADHD medication. I then switched to a mostly Japanese-speaking psychiatrist and am still on my medication. I was told that getting an official diagnosis (the hours-long test etc) is quite difficult as an English speaker (I’d have to go to Tokyo multiple times) but I don’t think it’s essential to getting medication. I had to fill out some questionnaires and get interviewed by the psychiatrist first. They will ask both how it’s affecting your everyday life, as well as symptoms you had in childhood and why it wasn’t diagnosed back in the U.S.
I went through the process of getting diagnosed a few years ago. Absolutely worth exploring and not as bad as it may seem.
First, I went to a mental health clinic and talked about my problems with the doctor. I picked the place because it had good reviews and the doctor had spent time in the states. He referred me to a IQ testing center. I booked the IQ test a week later. After taking the test and discussing my symptoms the doctor agreed I had ADHD and prescribed me concerta (time release methylphenidate).
To fill a concerta prescription you need a special registration card and must show ID (drivers licence, residence card etc). Also you must have valid health insurance (with other medication you can pay the full price out of pocket but you are not allowed to with concerta). It is a little pricey (5000 a month with health insurance). Some areas offer additional support if you are on low income.
For me, medication wasn’t a silver bullet but it gave me a chance. I had struggled to hold down a job and a relationship for years until I started taking it. I still have issues with concentration and performance, but I’m much more able to handle life than I was before.
It’s worth learning as much about ADHD as you can. I recommend starting with Russell Barkley, his presentations on youtube and his books.
ADHD is a serious problem and worth taking seriously, but with medication and support you can be successful in spite of it.