It is so hard, my parents put me on Ritalin before i was 11 yrs old . Ive been self medicating since they cold turkey me after 4 years. I do have ADHD and i stuggle every day with that plus my addiction
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Same here from the age of seven till the age of 12 I took Ritalin then went cold turkey off of it and that’s about the time I picked up my pot habit. Go figure.
Sandra, are you working the 12 steps with a sponsor?
I’ve seen some people in the program come off some pretty serious psychotropics and manage very well.
I’m not giving medical advice, just wondering.
You aren't the first person I've heard say that. The struggle is real to find healthy ways to manage. Lots of help out there. There are now non stimulant based medications out there. And I hate to say it but just keep seeking recovery. I did my step work in CR and I've now graduated to my next layer of recovery after a few 12 steps. Step Work is where it's at. Currently in the gentle path to recovery book.
It’s more common than we realize. I didn’t know I had ADHD and I wouldn’t have known for years because the using curved it. Now that I’m sober it can be a battle without help.
ADHD and addiction can feel like a heavy combo, especially with how early you started meds. It might help to work with someone who gets both struggles, they can guide you in finding healthy ways to cope. Recovery is about finding what works for you and leaning into the strengths ADHD gives, like creativity and resilience. Keep pushing, you’re not stuck where you started.