Managing ADHD - to med or not to med

[FeelingHelpless99]

Hi all,

I’ve not been formally diagnosed - huge waiting list - but I’m 99.9% certain I have that cluster of traits and conditions that is known as ADHD.

It is a bittersweet realisation - it carries a lot of forgiveness for all my struggles over decades, but also a lot of regret over what might have been.

The question is, what to do about it? I’m 48, no period for 14 months, so fluctuating hormones are in the mix now. I’m quite sceptical about the possibility of finding the right meds, in the right dosage, and that not bringing unwelcome side effects.

I’m aware that the huge periods I spend online are part of the problem - probably caused by my ADHD, but also exacerbating it.

Any happt stories out there about a good experience of meds and / or successful self-management?

Sometimes I feel like as a parent keeping my home in order is the spiritual struggle of my life, and that’s so fkn depressing! Thanks.

I've had some luck following Dana K White's approach (A Slob Comes Clean) - she seems to "get" the ADHD mindset very well.

However honestly I do think that the medication helps a lot with this kind of stuff. I am way less sucked into the internet all day every day too. But I do have to actually plan things, I can't just take the medication and then expect it to magically have an effect.

The difference is that I do tend to then actually get things on my list done, whereas without medication I would make all the lists and not do any of it.

Meds work for me - massively.
Haven't stunted my creativity and allow me to
focus on boring stuff in the morning and more fun stuff afternoons. Life. Changing.

AuDHD4Me

Can I ask what medication you take?

Equasym xl (methylphenidate slow release)
My daughter is on the same.
It took a while for my daughter to find the right dose but for me it was pretty much instant! Happy to chat!