ADHD

I had previously been diagnosed with ADHD in the fourth grade, but was taken off medication for it two years later. Now I am seventeen and I recently had knee surgery. I missed one week of school (two and a half weeks ago) and I feel like I cannot catch up. My symptoms of ADHD feel like they are getting worse. I feel increasingly forgetful and have trouble learning the old and new material. Worse, my friends at school think that I am making it up just to get extra time on assignments and have left me.

Could it be the anesthesia affecting me?

My psychiatrist said it was just trauma. I'm so upset all the time--I can barely face the school day and I'm anxious. Most of the time, when I am home, I get nothing accomplished. I used to be a very concientious student who was on top of everything. Now, I don't remember what was due, or worse, get worried, discouraged, and frustrated and don't do it.

In sum, my question is why would my symptoms get worse after surgery?

Try medication again as it will probably help you.

Surgery is stressful, and in stressful situations, psychological problems often get worse.

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Letter from a reader: I am sorry to hear of your surgery and the stress at school. I take medication for PTSD (post tramatic stress disorder) and depression. I know how you feel with the anxiety. Other kids can be cruel, especially when they don't understand what you are going through. Don't let them get you down. Talk to your doctor and see if he can help. There is nothing wrong with seeking treatment for anxiety, drepression or ADHD. I have had 13 surgeries and it never gets any eaiser. Surgery is stressful and can cause these symptoms. Good luck and I'll be praying for you.
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