i feel like i've been asked to try every alternative under the sun to controlled substances - meds that would treat my problems piecemeal, such as mood stabilizers or anti-anxiety meds, workshops to "improve my study habits and focus", behavioral therapy, adjusting my sleep schedule, taking better care of my physical health, and i'm sure a few more i've forgotten.

when i was meeting with a new doctor last year to finally get a prescription for adderall, he suggested all those things again, with me striking each one off the list of things i'd already done. all of those alternatives provide some relief, but they've never gotten down to the root of the problem, or have only worked temporarily.

taking adderall for the first time was incredible. finally, the chemical imbalance, the source of more problems than i'd even previously recognized, was restored to equilibrium. even if only for the duration of the pill's effect - i take an extended release pill that lasts me somewhere between 8 - 10 hours out of the day. it's enough time to get my work done and go about my daily errands.

my anxiety practically evaporates on this med.