barry jennings answers:

Why are you worried that you might have ADHD? I’m not trying to underestimate the disorder or doubt you, but you should be glad that you’ve found out what it is, then can do something about it. The more you find out about it, the more you can work with it since there’s both big strengths as well as weaknesses by the way.

It took me a long time to get diagnosed myself and the symptoms match up 99% and I was constantly on the search for stimulance myself. This lead to all sorts of problems, like near death experiences from climbing at heights, or driving too fast and I was pretty wild on the alcohol. Since getting myself sorted out and medicated I finally feel more stable in myself, and could probably even do well studying. Things are better socially too.

barry jennings answers:

People who don’t deal with things like this CANNOT understand – they can sympathize or accept it, but never understand it unless they experience it. One problem with people (parents included) is they think people use genuine conditions as an excuse (many do, you know). Next time you go to the doctor for your meds, since I’m sure you go at least every three months if not every month, explain to them that this is really bothering you and ask them if they can request blood work to see if anything could be contributing to it (i.e. Thyroid, vitamin levels, etc). Considering your age – you’re still growing too – that makes you tired as well.

I hate to say it but, your dad has a point too on the exercise. Although it doesn’t appear to make sense, exercise (even walking) will help to give you energy. I don’t know about your diet but eating a lot of certain types of cards can have your blood sugar going up and down like a roller coaster and add to the fatigue too.

One last thought – when you see your doctor next, ask if they could explain (in detail) what kind of impact this problem has on people or suggest a book or informational material for your parents to read on how they can help you.

barry jennings answers:

Adderall is (in part) an amphetamine. Amphetamines are also appetite suppressants. The drug itself doesn’t make you lose weight, but the loss of appetite does. You should consider some non-pharmaceutical methods first before going on a drug, of if you go on a drug, try some lifestyle changes that can help you overcome symptoms of ADHD.

These are some ideas that have worked for some people –

* Watch little or no TV – take all electronics out of the bedroom
* Take up art, it helps some to focus and overcome symptoms of ADHD
* Give attention to diet, nutrition, exercise
* Spend time regularly outdoors in nature

There are many other ideas that work. Everyone is different. They say that serious side effects for ADHD lasts about 6 months and gradually taper off in about 2 years. However, the positive effects of the drugs also usually only last about 2 years for most people.

These are some ideas from the book, Overcoming ADHD Without Medication: A Parent and Educator’s Guidebook. It deals with children and teens, but also has application for adults.

barry jennings answers:

The first 3 medications are all different forms of the same medication (Methylphenidate). They work no differently and only the way you get the medication in your system is different. The last medication is closer to Adderall (which is multiple different stimulant medications combined). All of the medications act in the similar ways to relieve ADHD symptoms. As already stated you should talk to your doctor about which medication, if any would work best for you. Also Methylphenidate (Ritalin) has not been proven to have more side effects than Adderall, in fact it’s the other way around. Ritalin is usually the first choice medication (in various forms) given to children and adults that are formally diagnosed with ADHD and need medication. Depending on your symptoms (provided you have spoken to and been diagnosed by a doctor/specialist) you may not need medication at all. I have been diagnosed myself and have been lucky enough to adapt and make my symptoms work for me in a positive way without medication. That does not mean you can or will, just that it is possible. Talk to a doctor/ specialist and they will explain to you everything you need to know. Every medication given for ADHD symptoms are very powerful and will most likely have side effects regardless of the medication given. Some of the side effects are; Mania, Fatigue, Euphoria, Depression, Increased heart rate, and increased blood pressure just to name a few.

barry jennings answers:

I’m a 22 yr old male and take Ritalin daily for ADHD and depression.

1) Average dosage is from 10mg-60mg a day (Some doctors will go up to 80mg for adults)
2) Life is great on ritalin for me anyways. I am alot more calm, less moody, more focused. I can get things done more than before. I also have kept the same job for the last 18 months and before ritalin I’d get a new job every few months. I also have less depression and am easier to get along with.
3) I was on 60mg but now am down to 40mg a day. I dont need a dose escalation and the effects remain constant for me. People who keep going for higher and higher dosages are doing it for the euphoria.. If you use ritalin to help with focus and drive it will always be good but if you’re chasing the high then you will keep having to up the dosgae.
4) Disadvantages for my health? I’d say sleeping problems and loss of appetite could cause nutritional deficiencies. I howevr have no sleeping problems and get a good 8 hours a night. I also try and force myself to eat even when I can’t. I supplement omega-3 fish oil capsules, Multivitamin/multimineral tablet, B-vitamin complex which helps alot, as well as I take 1000mg of magnesium before bed (which is said to keep tolerance down and it definetly works). So remember to sleep and eat on it that will take away alot of the negative long term effects.

Ritalin is great if used correctly. I take 40mg of Biphentin once daily. It’s a very long lasting preparation of Ritalin available in Canada but not in the USA. I like the instant release forms better though but my doctor is reluctant to prescribe any I.R. Form where I had a past addiction to opiates. But it is great stuff when used properly.