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WistfulFae

2y ago

Living without ADHD medication: Is it possible?

I feel like I have no motivation today. I'm feeling low, a bit hopeless. Is it possible to live a fulfilling life without ADHD medication?

Your answer

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Kass12

2y ago

I go med free and I feel the same and in some ways. my parents tell me to take them but I try to live my life off of meds and it seems to work pretty well for me. I have my moments but I think everyone has moments ya know? You just gotta try to find motivation some days its for me some days its for my boyfriend and others its for my cousin who passed 5 years ago and others for my dog. Its hard to find motivation but you keep going for a reason its also ok to not be motivated. Hope this helped a bit :)
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Cocoa2009

2y ago

I joined this to understand more and to see how I can help my son. He was diagnosed with add when he was 13/14 he is 20 now. We never gave him meds as it seemed not to really be interfering much with his daily life. Didn’t understand as he now explains the racing thoughts going at 1000 miles an hour. He’s been working and seems to lack motivation even when it’s explained to him over and over. He’s used weed to self medicate but I seem to think sometimes it’s overused and being stoned is not the answer, I’m scared of medications because of what I’ve read about addictive. I’ve heard about supplements like zink, fish oils, magnesium etc. also drinking coffee or black tea. Would like to know about the experiences with taking this also about cbd oils any advice so I can help him. Thank you
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Mermista

2y ago

I struggle a lot when I don’t take my meds. I think it can be really difficult for some people, if it’s possible to try meds I recommend it
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saksgirl02

2y ago

I just started Straterra this year at 47. I know that I should have been on meds since I was a teen but back them mental health wasn't spoken about like what it is today.
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deadpool333

2y ago

I personally use focusing toys such as fidget cubs and worry stones. I use them all the time
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deadpool333

2y ago

They work very well for me
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Lady6ug

2y ago

ADHD really comes down to routines. I'm not technically on medication for ADHD specifically and I've had some problems lately, but with proper counseling and support I have done really well without medication. Medication isn't a bad thing, it can help. But I rarely think that it should be the first choice. Some of my meds make me really tired and I hate that, but I started them in the first place because I was crying myself to sleep. But medication isn't a fix all even when you do use it and it's different for everyone. So, yeah, it's possible, of course. Lot's of people do it, myself included. But you also shouldn't be afraid to try it if you've tried other options and they just aren't working. And as long as you do it safely, you can stop taking them or switch meds if they aren't working out.
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E11iefant

2y ago

I’ve never taken ADHD meds because my parents wanted me to learn how to manage it on my own. Some days are harder than others, but it is possible! Maybe ask your doc for a low dose just to feel it out. There are natural ways to suppress symptoms: stimming, music(same song on repeat to stay motivated), and tricking yourself into doing things lol. I tricked myself to do a 10 page study guide for my final exam by promising my classmates I’d send it to them, I worked on it for 10 hours straight lol!
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KansasCity

2y ago

I'm not sure if this will help you, but for me, my motivation increases when I'm listening to music.
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WistfulFae

2y ago

Yes! Music helps with so many of my issues. Depression, anxiety, etc. ❤️
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WistfulFae

2y ago

I would prefer not to take meds. I don't care for pharmaceuticals much. Also, I refused to believe I had ADHD when I was a child. I refused meds. As an adult, I feel like I went this long without treatment. I once had a social worker ( I think she was) tell me I just wanted meds. I never spoke about it again and always down played it to docs. Now, I feel like my ADHD is a major barrier to me having a fulfilling life.
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Shaba

2y ago

I have been dealing with adhd without meds and take something for my anxiety. Sometime I feel like if I had adhd meds I might feel better. I just don't like so much meds.
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100Percent_K

2y ago

there’s an OTC supplement called “Focus Factor” you could look into as well as behavioral therapy. Beyond that if it’s hindering your life meds may be the best for you and that’s okay, you deserve to be able to enjoy life
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100Percent_K

2y ago

It is for some, but it’s harder for others. I have been med free for years, my best friend has said she could never live without hers. What’s best for you is the most important part ❤️
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Chaoswithinorder

2y ago

Medication wise, there are stimulant medications and non-stimulants. They act very differently and feel very different. You can also start with very low doses. Most(if not all) adhd medications leave you system within a day or so, making it easier to just test it out on certain days you are struggling. However, medications are never the only option. Something to look into is CBD oil, heral supplements, or vitamins that you may be deficient in. Some caffeine(natural and not chemical/created is best) at times can definitely help too. It took till my partner was taking medications regularly for adhd for me to feel comfortable to even try medication. Medication is not a requirement for a happy life, nor is it a fix-all. Behavior therapy, certain environments, meditation, yoga, diet management, and/or development of coping mechanisms are enough for some people. Try everything you feel comfortable with, there is no wrong answer as long as it helps you.

The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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