The Normal Experiment

I’m totally off my meds now. I even kicked coffee.

I have tamed my todo list and tried to minimize distractions, but it’s an uphill battle and I’m losing. I forget things 30 seconds after I hear them, only to recall them much later (followed by, “Oh shit!”). I decide to do something and then click a web link. 15 minutes later, I’m wondering what the hell I’m doing and what it was I was about to do.

All typical ADD stuff, right?

I have been exercising. I’m sure its great for my health and my mood, but it doesn’t cut through the mental fog like Concerta did. I find that a little depressing but the exercise keeps my spirits up.

But, all this is expected — after all, I’ve spent over 15 years as an adult struggling with these issues. I’m trying to get a grip on my cardiac issues and, since dropping the chemicals, I have noticed a reduction in my blood pressure. Instead of 140/90 I’m getting readings of 130/80 I think this is still borderline, but better.

I do notice that my heart occasionally races, though, and my resting heart rate is nothing to brag about even though I would say I’m in good physical condition. I worry it’s anxiety (worry — get it?). I’ve started Tai Chi in an effort to calm my troubled mind and I need to talk to my psychiatrist soon.

I suspect my next few discussions may revolve around anti-anxiety and BP meds if I want to get back on the ADD meds. Is it all worth it? When I think back to my days on Concerta the answer is a resounding, “YES!”

~ by Jay on July 7, 2010.