Can't have stimulants but NEED

[Littlelady12]

I am ADHD, diagnosed at 30, now 44. I am a sober addict/alcoholic and have never been able to get the stimulants that I need badly. I shouldn't say never, my general doc gave me Ritalin and Vyvance (at different times in a three month period) but as soon as I saw my psychiatrist, she took me off of them. They are the only meds I've ever taken that help me concentrate and sometimes to just get out of bed. I also suffer from depression. I think it's ridiculous that they CAN monitor the use of the drug but they refuse to do it, therefore making me suffer in the meantime. What do you think about this?

[GatsbyCat]

Hello, Littlelady12~

Welcome to the group. Sounds like you need to have a conversation with your general doctor about these medications.

Can your general doctor also get you a referral to a different psychiatrist? Sometimes, we just don't "click" with one, and do with a different person.

You could also look online for ADHD psychiatrists, and see if one is nearby..

Just some ideas! Good luck. Hope this helps a bit.

[Cag3]

Hello there,

I agree with GatsbyCat as well. I can also empathize with your situation as I am a former addict with ADHD myself. However, if you are living the sober life this should not prevent a good psychiatrist from providing you with the tools you need. In fact, sometimes addiction can be fueled by an undiagnosed case of ADHD, as the condition causes us to be impulsive and affects our ability to look ahead of our actions. I was up front with my psychiatrist about my drug history but this did not stop her from prescribing me medication. She simply informed me that she would be watching closely for any signs of abuse (asking for early script fills, asking for regular dosage increases, etc), which I understand and honestly appreciate given my past. She will also have me take random urine tests at some of our appointments so she knows I am not taking any other drugs besides my medication. My psych also informed me that people with true ADHD are very unlikely to abuse their medications, even if they do have a history of drug abuse, because it creates such a positive impact on their life. I would recommend looking for a different provider. There truly are some good ones out there who will accept your past and still be willing to give you the tools to build your future. Best of luck!!

[clintalan]

Hi! New here and to all this. I’ve also had me issues with alcohol and drugs. There are formulations that are not abusable, as in they can’t be crushed. I don’t think abuse should be a major concern of the doc if you are in stable recovery. Obviously a concern if you left rehab last week!

[StoneJeweler]

I understand your dilemma, I was first given stratera, and prozac. It helped some. Have you changed your diet? Organic! Pesticides, glyphosate, only make your condition worse! Sugar, corn syrup, and other sweeteners are also very bad. Starting on a diet like Paleo or one that allows good protein, vegetables, some fruit and healthy fats like nuts, high quality olive oil, extra virgin organic coconut oil. No breads, cakes cookies or any sweets. This will make a big difference in how you feel!!] Meditation is also very helpfulEveryone seems to always assume you need to medicate your ADHD away. Well it helps but it is still there!! It is up to you to do the rest! Like exercise, get a good sleep everyday7-8 hrs. Addiction is very powerful as you should know. Don't loose your sobriety, without that nothing will help. you can't cheat on this. It must be your first concern.Addicts are good lyers, to themselves and others. By being very honest with your addictions and if you really really want a better life this is so important. Taking ADD meds should be one of the last things you try. it is very easy to take a pill to make things better, as you well know, but that's also your problem remember.

Find a therapist who is knowledgeable about ADHD and addiction. Even though they don't prescribe medications, they will know who does. One who will work with you and your therapist. Look online for more information about your challenges, but be discerning and don't believe everything you read.

Having ADHD is hard to live with but it is not impossible. Sobriety must come first, always!! Keep writing to this site for ideas and help. We're all in this together and we all want you to succeed. Blessings