| About This
Book The year was 1979, the setting
Winston-Salem State University. Background music: Michael Jackson and I Want to Rock With
You.
I was becoming comfortable with my new environment. I lived a dual life most of the time,
going home on weekends, then back on campus for my studies and dramas during the week.
Academically, I was getting a bit slack. I suppose I figured the A's I would get in drama
classes would balance out things. Algebra was giving me a fit.
I sometimes today wake up from a terrifying dream of not being able to graduate because of
a math class that I forgot to attend, and it now being test day. The fear of being
clueless and making a zero is most frightening. In reality, I actually made a 98 on my
final exam in Algebra/Trigonometry.
Eventually I realized the enormously ecessive amount of effort required for me to do
satisfactory work in subjects requiring precise concentration and accurate problem
solving.
I was finally diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder at age 44, possibly explaining the
repeated difficulties, particularly with math courses and test taking.
ADHD is actually a neurological disorder involving the wiring of the brain and the
insufficient transport of the essential neurotransmitter, dopamine, to the frontal lobes
of the brain where focus, concentration, and attention are managed.
Fortunately, I was able to develop compensatory mechanisms effectively throughout my
academic life. Major disadvantages have included: strongly reactive moods, stuborness,
irritability, procrastination, poor time management, self esteem issues, day-dreaming, and
behaviors incongruent with other's expectations. The best news has been that I finally
understand much more about why I think the way I do. Chapter 15
"EVOLUTION of a PSYCHIATRIST, Against the Odds"
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