Hi everyone,

I'm 31 years old, which still is unbelievable. I have with brain problems for over twenty years and only in the past year has a thread of hope through understanding a clearer picture of what is actually happening in my brain has emerged. I first started experiencing severe restless leg syndrome as a child, followed by ADHD, and depression beginning at age ten. I then began experiencing intrusive thoughts, which were distressing. I now realize my intrusive thoughts seem to overlap with the mental tics of Tourrette's. I also experience this horrible headache all the time on the left side of my head, which feels like there is too much activity in my brain and it drives me to sleep endlessly if it gets out of control. I realize now that OCD, ADHD, Tourrette's, depression often run together. I know there is a basic mechanism of dopamine and glutamate dysregulation in the basal ganglia and other limbic system structures. I'm also extremely left-handed, and I understand there has been some research into the possible ties of autoimmune diseases and left-handedness. Although Dr. Geschwind's theory of left-handedness has not been completely proven, I can see that there is something to what was put forth in his theory.

Ultimately I would like to become well to a greater degree, because I feel I'm just floating through time and life. I live in Indiana where it is currently difficult to attain health insurance, and I know it will probably be years before I can either get Medicaid or be able to purchase health care. I feel there is no good reason to stay here except for my family. But I'd like to get well and have my own full life and I know it is next to impossible to do. If anyone can help me put the puzzle pieces together, I'd be eager and humbled. Thank you