this post was submitted on 17 Jul 2023
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ADHD

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Greetings, fellow ADHDers!

These last three years have been a shit show, that led to the simple conclusion: Medication sucks (for me).

I've been through at least 8 Non-Stims and 3 Stims. The only Medications that worked for me was Adderall (but the anxiety it induced was unbearable) and Straterra (but I'm of the lucky few who have Urinary side effects). My Psychiatrist tried to balance it out with Zoloft and other similar medications but the side effects whacked me out so hard, it resulted in a Misdiagnosis of Bipolar Type 2. (Two weeks after i stopped taking all meds, all side effects subsided and my emotional state stabilized.)

Now, Im terrified of Medication. A lower dose of Adderall would conceivably help, but I dont like the health risk its impact on my cardiovascular system could have, and I have a genetic history of heart disease.

In conclusion: Medication isn't for me, and I need some tips of managing symptoms and depression related to ADHD symptoms. Life is HARD.

Thank you

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[–] FiddlersViridian 43 points 1 year ago (9 children)

For me, exercise is critical, specifically running. The combination of physical exertion, repetitive motion, "me time" and getting outside is one of the most helpful things for both ADHD and depression. When I'm not able to run for a few days I feel the difference. There are times I don't enjoy running, but I almost never regret having gone for a run. This can be hard because depression will tell you it's so much easier to sit and watch TV or play a game.

I know that not everyone likes running or has the ability or space to do it safely, but long walks, swimming, biking, etc, might be alternatives.

[–] [email protected] 8 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) (5 children)

I quite enjoy running, it's hard to get myself to do it reliably though. Do you have any tips on getting out the door reliably?

[–] FiddlersViridian 3 points 1 year ago

I sometimes tell myself that I don't have to go very far, or maybe I just have to walk, but put on my shoes (and headphones and whatever else) and walk out the door. Once I'm out, I usually do want to go. Sometimes I can convince myself that future me will appreciate it if I go, which can be motivation, but that depends on the day. I also find that signing up for a race helps. If I don't train leading up to it, that day is going to suck much more, and I don't want that to happen!

I also have dogs and once they get a hint that I might go for one they are very persistent about making sure I take them. 😆

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