I’m posting this simply because I didn’t have any other place to post it, and I’m hoping I’ll get some sort of cathartic relief by doing so.
I’m 41 years old, and I’ve been taking meds for ADHD for the better part of 10 years. I bounced around with a few different meds before finding that Vyvanse was by far the most effective for me. To say that it changed my life would be a huge understatement.
I’ve recently been diagnosed with high blood pressure. They’re still working on figuring out the cause (genetic, environmental, stress, etc…), but I found out on Tuesday that I’m no longer able to take my Vyvanse until they figure everything out. Even then, there’s a good chance I’ll never be able to go back on meds.
I’m, honestly, pretty devistated right now. I was upset enough when I started having to deal with the high blood pressure stuff (I’m a relatively in-shape person, and a very avid distance runner). Adding this on top of things almost feels like too much to handle at once. I’ve pretty much just sat on the couch these past two days throwing myself a little pity party.
In addition to just being a way to vent my feelings of frustration, I’m also hoping someone here might be able to offer some alternative ways to help manage ADHD symptoms. My biggest area of need has always been with my focus. When I’m not medicated, my motivation to do anything (especially things that need to get done) is near zero.
I can’t help but wonder if it’s as simple as cutting the caffeine from your diet. I’d look there first
I actually stopped drinking coffee the same time I stopped taking the Vyvanse just to cover my bases. My initial thoughts are it’s likely at least partially genetic. I’ve always had borderline high blood pressure when in the doctor’s office, but it’s always been written off as white coat syndrome. It wasn’t until I had an afib episode a few months ago and they started doing more tests, including having me check my blood pressure at home regularly, that they determined it’s pretty much always high. Hopefully we’ll figure out a way to get me back on something for my adhd eventually. Just trying to make the best of if for now. I keep telling myself if it had to happen, now is the best time since I’m a teacher and on summer break still for the next 5 weeks.
I think cutting sodium and shifting towards a more plant based diet would help. Also take a look into intermittent fasting. Get proper sleep and hydration.
Beyond those things starting a meditation practice, of even a few minutes a day, would be super beneficial for your unmedicated brain. Keep up the running even if it means shifting indoors due to the smoke. Best of luck - you got this!