Question by A: How to live without Adderall?
Sorry for making this long. But if anyone reads this I appreciate you taking the time. Basically, I have extreme treatment resistant depression. (Suicidal, no motivation, couldn’t even get out of bed every day, just wanted to die). Years of taking practically every antidepressant did nothing for me. (I honestly believe they’re just placebos). Eventually I was prescribed Adderall as an add on to my antidepressant. It was a blessing. It makes me happy, confident, motivated, clear headed, better at everything, and energetic. It is the only thing that has ever helped. All the therapy, antidepressants and mood stabilizers in the world couldn’t help me. 2 weeks after being prescribed Adderall my life completely turned around. (Found a job, stopped abusing drugs, all my problems went away and I feel on top of the world). But I don’t want to take Adderall for the rest of my life. I know it can be a terrible drug and i’m well aware of the long term effects. But I don’t know how I can live and function without it. I fear i’ll lose my job, get really depressed, lose my friends, and won’t be able to do anything if I get off of it. Everyone says I’m doing so much better now. But I know it’s not me, it’s speed. I hope that this changed perspective can stick with me after I stop taking it and that the medicine will change my personality permanently for the better or that I’ll become used to thinking this way and it will become part of me. But I don’t know if it will. All I know is that I can’t take this forever. But I can’t live without it. I don’t know what to do and can’t see any other options. Please help. Any serious advice is appreciated. (And please no “You need rehab.” etc.) I don’t have drug issues. I have mental issues.

Best answer:

Answer by Molly
Go the natural route. Herbs, vitamins, healthy foods. Herbs like St. John’s Wort and Niacin. It can’t hurt to try it. Here’s a link that goes more in-depth about this. Hope everything works out in the end.

Answer by petrof_skinsky
That’s great that you found something that works!

Dd you discuss all this with the prescribing doctor? Your fears and concerns? Can they give you an idea of how long you’ll need to be on it?

I can relate to what you’re saying. I am on several psych meds and know they could be adversely affecting my inner organs. But, for me, it is worth feeling well than becoming concerned with side effects that may never happen.

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