When the meds don't work

I'm a newbie on here, and I've been on the lookout for a community for adult ADHD support that simply discusses life with ADHD. The few groups I've found so far are largely hyperfocused on meds this, meds that. I'm not against meds, but so far everything I've tried has made things worse, not better. So here I am experiencing life with ADHD, without the benefit of meds that work. I have my strategies for dealing with it, having got past 40 before diagnosis. I'd like to hear from others who are in my boat, dealing with it without meds - about the challenges you face and your strategies for dealing with them. Of course, I am more than willing to share mine, too.

[ToughBaby]

I'm here for mostly the same reason. I've chosen to live mostly unmedicated, all though I fully support people who take meds daily. Those of us diagnosed later in life have usually figured out some hacks and systems by that time. 😀 So far, my biggest suggestion to anyone with ADHD is to create as many routines as possible to provide structure in one's life. Stick to a regular rise/bedtime (even on weekends) and have a routine to start and end the day. That's what works for me, anyway. Life might get crazy in between, but I can always count on the beginning and ending to stay the same.

[asalem in reply to ToughBaby]

I am 30 years old. In my past experiences, every attempt at keeping a routine failed in a few days. I gave up on that idea but I am sure it works for you. I don't think most of us can be helped without some type of physical treatment. I am not on meds although I am prescribed then. I am choosing to live without them for now although I may change my mind. Can I ask your reason for not taking meds?

[ToughBaby in reply to asalem]

Hey asalem - I don't take meds because I hate doctoring - as silly as that sounds! I've got so much going on already (as we all do) and being chained to a doctor's office is a supreme inconvenience. I also hate needing permission (getting a prescription) to manage my health. I was first prescribed Strattera and the side effects were beyond awful. I tried it three different times and just couldn't handle it. I now have Adderall XR 10mg, and that works pretty well, although I have borderline high blood pressure, so a stimulant isn't ideal because it raises my BP a few points - which means taking more meds to keep it low. Adderall also kinda wipes me out after a couple of days' use. It's trial & error to get the right balance of meds, and I'm a cheerleader for anyone who has the patience and stamina for that! I don't - at least so far. Instead, I stick to a tight sleep schedule, wake up with thick-as-mud coffee (water all day after that), bookend my days with a quick & simple morning/night routine, and have some specific "rules" to help get things done (like "Wednesday Water" so my poor plants don't shrivel & die). Morning exercise is my best ADHD medicine, and I'm working to make that a habit now. My focus is on creating habits, so I don't have to rely on willpower and self-discipline for every little thing. A string of habits becomes a routine. I found that it's easiest to start with one habit, then add another to it when it becomes second nature. Of course, I have ADHD, which means I fall off the wagon with all of this, lol! I then take my Adderall as a temporary support to get back on track. This isn't a perfect plan, but I'm being intentional about finding what works for my brain and my body. I'm happy to be here and see what's working for others.

[asalem in reply to ToughBaby]

I really like your approach to taking Adderall only when needed. I was thinking about this approach a few days ago and now that you mentioned it, I am more convinced I need to this. May ask how often you take the Adderall?

[ToughBaby in reply to asalem]

I take Adderall probably 1-2 days every few weeks. That works for me, and my doctor is good with it. Please make sure to chat with your doctor before adjusting any meds. I'm not qualified to give any health advice whatsoever. Good luck to you!

[asalem in reply to ToughBaby]

Thanks, you too as well!