Ryan was misdiagnosed with Asperger’s: ‘I was given the wrong treatment and medication’

Depression complaints

Shannen was 15 years old when she underwent the procedure. She was suffering from symptoms of depression, so she went to her doctor, who referred her to a psychiatrist. All along, the student believed there was an underlying cause for her depressive feelings, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. Even though Shannen told the psychiatrist about this, she didn’t really listen to her. “The psychiatrist at the time said I was just a teenager and should get some rest.” Says.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Shannen suspected she might have ADHD, then discussed this with her GP. “He told me the wait to get a diagnosis was too long and suggested that I try ADHD medication to see if I responded. That way we could find out if I had ADHD or not.”The student says. However, the doctor gave her the wrong dose, which meant she did not respond well. The medication didn’t work, which made Shannen believe she didn’t have ADHD after all. There was a period during which her depressive feelings subsided, but they later returned. “Then I asked for help again and was diagnosed with ADHD.” Says. This was a huge relief to Shannen, because the pieces of the puzzle finally fell into place. ““After the new diagnosis, I started reading more about ADHD and began to understand myself better.”