Help - I’m Addicted to Adderall!!!

I’m really thankful to have not experienced postpartum depression, but my ADHD symptoms and anxiety have been making things difficult for me…

Going back to work after having a baby was definitely not easy. In this episode, I discuss how that has been going in addition to my adventure with breast-feeding, and how I feel my Adderall use has affected- or not affected - this.

I took my first dose of Adderall the morning of my c-section. Looking back, I kind of wish I’d taken it for the rest of my hospital stay.

As promised, in this episode, I will talk about my experience at the hospital regarding taking my medication and trying to breast-feed.

Hello! It’s been a long time since my last episode. My baby was born last month! Let me share how she’s doing and any concerns I have regarding my choice to take Adderall.

I’m not quite 22 weeks pregnant yet, and finally went in for my first ultrasound in almost a month. It felt like forever! I’ve increased my Adderall dosage, gotten back on Ambien, and had my 15-year-old stepdaughter move in with us.

In this episode, I’ll share my thoughts on my current Adderall dosage as well as what my high-risk pregnancy doctor thought about my medications.

I just got back from my 14-week ultrasound appointment. My baby’s heart rate was perfect, and I’m starting to feel much better about my decision to take Adderall.

I finally got the results back from the noninvasive prenatal testing! While those have calmed some of my anxieties, a whole new set of anxieties has recently cropped back up 🤦🏼‍♀️. Here is the article I mentioned toward the end of the episode: https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/anxiety-robbed-me-of-my-pregnancy-joy

I was so happy to hear my babies strong heartbeat and see they’re a little arms and legs yesterday 🥰.

Since lowering my Adderall dosage and cutting out alcohol and anxiety medication, I’d been feeling a bit isolated and lonely. I decided to make some changes.

I’m still taking my Adderall and Seroquel for sleep and praying for a healthy baby 🙏🏼

I went to see a new OB today for a six week initial OB appointment. Things like a much better than they did at six weeks last pregnancy. 🙏🏼. I’ll also share a little bit about how my Adderall taper down plan and sleeping pill regimen have been going. Thanks for joining!

It’s been less than a week since I got my first positive pregnancy test (at 8 days post ovulation!), but I can’t help but get excited and feel hopeful. That being said, it’s hard for me to control my anxiety, especially when it comes to what medication to take and at what dosages. This is what I’m doing now.

I had another appointment with my psychiatrist, who highly recommended I switch from Ambien to Seroquel if trying to get pregnant. Here are my thoughts. I’ve also decided to officially reduce my Adderall dosage for the time being. I’ll be gradually decreasing from my dosage with the support and guidance of my psychiatrist.

So I did not end up getting pregnant this cycle, but I am happy to say that I’ve been able to feel productive and successful at work on a greatly reduced Adderall dosage! I’ve also used the nootropic supplement sulbutiamine a couple of times instead of Adderall. I won’t do this if I get pregnant just due to the lack of safety data during pregnancy, but I highly recommend out if you aren’t trying to conceive!

I think I may have ovulated!

I know, it probably sounds opposite what you would expect to hear, but here is my reasoning…

I have never officially been diagnosed with binge eating disorder, but I definitely notice some beady tendencies in myself. Here is my opinion on the use of stimulant medication for the treatment of BED.  Here is a link to the research I mention at the end of the episode https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0091305717304884 Click this link to purchase phenylpiracetam or other nootropics from Nootropics Depot:  https://shrsl.com/3dsct https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=856719&u=3076648&m=65442&urllink=&afftrack=

In this episode I describe my personal experience with bacopa, ashwagandha, rhodiola rosea, lemon balm, valerian root, and chamomile tea.  I think that, especially with these kinds of supplements, different people may notice different benefits.  My goal is to share my experience in order to better inform you regarding potential benefits and side effects.  I hope you find this helpful! Here is a link to the ashwagandha supplement I'm currently taking: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002BBATC?ie=UTF8&psc=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=adhdandmemomm-20&linkId=fb033939721937bcca93d4e43ac85217&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl Here is a link to some information regarding ashwagandha's benefits, in case you are interested in learning more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252722/ https://www.online-therapy.com/?ref=287668

In this episode, I talk about some side effects that I have noticed when taking Adderall as well as things that I have found helpful when it comes to mitigating those side effects.

I recently purchased a ClearBlue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test kit. Last weekend, I saw the high fertility symbol up here for the first time. However, I never reached peak fertility, and I’m now very confused as to how I can figure out where I am in my cycle since I recently miscarried and have not yet had a regular period.

After obsessively trying to find as much research as possible online, I’ve decided to start taking synthetic nootropics again while trying to conceive. It makes me nervous, but, at the same time, I hope it’s for the best. The research I was able to find is listed in my blog: https://adhdandhelpme.wordpress.com/2022/03/04/back-on-nootropics-while-trying-to-conceive/

After my bold decision to continue taking nootropics right now, I came across some research that has me a bit concerned. That being said, the nootropics are really helping with my overall mental health, so I’m trying to figure out how to proceed.

My psychiatrist suggested I try Seroquel for insomnia since there is more data regarding its safety during pregnancy. However, based on what I could find by asking Dr. Google, I’m not convinced.

Today I check my progress on my personal DBT goal and review two important emotion regulation skills: opposite action and building mastery.

I’m feeling kind of down today, so I’m going to practice the DBT skill of opposite action. Join me!

I went to go see my OB today to get my hcg levels checked and ask about my recovery and future pregnancy options. This is what he told me about taking medications and supplements now, as well as what to expect as far as a timeline to full recovery. At the end of the episode, let’s set a DBT goal and practice a mindful moment together.

Do you struggle to respond rather than react when experiencing intense emotions? Let’s practice the TIPP skill for distress tolerance! If you decide to purchase a supplement mentioned here, please consider using one of the links I provided if you would like to help support me and my blog. I get a small commission from any purchases made using my links. New Harbinger Book: https://www.amazon.com/Skills-Training-Handouts-Worksheets-Second/dp/1572307811?keywords=dbt+workbook&qid=1645341218&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=adhdandmemomm-20&linkId=b1be0e254339a057d8d0d78bf474fac7&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl DBT Toolbox https://www.amazon.com/Borderline-Personality-Disorder-Toolbox-Evidence-Based/dp/1683730054?crid=NWQFFIS2B15&keywords=dbt+toolbox&qid=1645057404&sprefix=dbt+toolbox%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-11&linkCode=ll1&tag=adhdandmemomm-20&linkId=a729ede4bf1adffbd86ba95cb92d1913&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

No matter how much you learn about ways to improve your life, the only way to really make a substantial difference is by practicing and integrating healthy habits into your daily life. Let’s start today by practicing mindfulness. If you decide to purchase a supplement mentioned here, please consider using one of the links I provided if you would like to help support me and my blog. I get a small commission from any purchases made using my links. New Harbinger Book: https://www.amazon.com/Skills-Training-Handouts-Worksheets-Second/dp/1572307811?keywords=dbt+workbook&qid=1645341218&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=adhdandmemomm-20&linkId=b1be0e254339a057d8d0d78bf474fac7&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl DBT Toolbox https://www.amazon.com/Borderline-Personality-Disorder-Toolbox-Evidence-Based/dp/1683730054?crid=NWQFFIS2B15&keywords=dbt+toolbox&qid=1645057404&sprefix=dbt+toolbox%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-11&linkCode=ll1&tag=adhdandmemomm-20&linkId=a729ede4bf1adffbd86ba95cb92d1913&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

Today’s been a rough day. I feel like I am having a hard time keeping up with work, and it is starting to affect my marriage. Today, I will go over the DEARMAN, A DBT strategy for interpersonal effectiveness. I personally started to practice DBT skills on my own with this workbook: https://www.amazon.com/Borderline-Personality-Disorder-Toolbox-Evidence-Based/dp/1683730054?crid=NWQFFIS2B15&keywords=dbt+toolbox&qid=1645057404&sprefix=dbt+toolbox%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-11&linkCode=ll1&tag=adhdandmemomm-20&linkId=a729ede4bf1adffbd86ba95cb92d1913&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl This is another highly recommended DBT book.  It is used by therapists and independent learners as alike. https://www.amazon.com/Skills-Training-Handouts-Worksheets-Second/dp/1572307811?keywords=dbt+workbook&qid=1645341218&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=adhdandmemomm-20&linkId=b1be0e254339a057d8d0d78bf474fac7&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl  

Why am I always late? Is it some form of self sabotage?

I am so happy to say that I am finally feeling back to normal. I feel like myself again. Yay! As happy as that makes me feel, I know also have my usual anxiety. I’m going to get back into practicing DBT skills. I hope you can join me! Here is the very first DBT Workbook I used.  I highly recommend it!  https://www.amazon.com/Borderline-Personality-Disorder-Toolbox-Evidence-Based/dp/1683730054?crid=NWQFFIS2B15&keywords=dbt+toolbox&qid=1645057404&sprefix=dbt+toolbox%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-11&linkCode=ll1&tag=adhdandmemomm-20&linkId=a729ede4bf1adffbd86ba95cb92d1913&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

My body is finally starting to feel normal again. My energy levels are increasing, and my emotions and hormones seem to have stabilized. I don’t find myself crying over things that I wouldn’t typically cry over, and I don’t feel like I’m constantly at the mercy of my hormones. You can use this link to receive a 20% discount on therapy sessions with www.online-therapy.com:  https://www.online-therapy.com/?ref=287668 https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=117669&u=3076648&m=16745&urllink=www%2Efairhavenhealth%2Ecom%2Fproduct%2Fovacue%2Dwireless%2Dfertility%2Dmonitor%2F&afftrack=Adhdandme

I’m getting back to the grind, with my new fertility obsession, of course! •Buy NAC Here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000QVEI1A/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000QVEI1A&linkCode=as2&tag=adhdandhelpme-20&linkId=0f7c0d5bc1756be446361457f83805dc https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=117669&u=3076648&m=16745&urllink=www%2Efairhavenhealth%2Ecom%2Fproduct%2Fovacue%2Dwireless%2Dfertility%2Dmonitor%2F&afftrack=Adhdandme

I don’t know if the medication I took to help me pass the pregnancy tissue is having some effect on my hormones or something, but I’ve just been so sad this weekend. It’s like all of the emotional instability I thought I would experience during pregnancy are hitting me now. This is so hard 😞 Affiliate links to resources and products you might find helpful: https://www.online-therapy.com/?ref=287668 Lemon balm tea:   https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015OGDWAO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B015OGDWAO&linkCode=as2&tag=adhdandhelpme-20&linkId=9a95896a35a35eeee0423d55e4a35a5b https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=117669&u=3076648&m=16745&urllink=www%2Efairhavenhealth%2Ecom%2Fproduct%2Fovacue%2Dwireless%2Dfertility%2Dmonitor%2F&afftrack=Adhdandme

It’s been a week since my miscarriage was diagnosed, and I’m feeling so much better already. https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=117669&u=3076648&m=16745&urllink=www%2Efairhavenhealth%2Ecom%2Fproduct%2Fovacue%2Dwireless%2Dfertility%2Dmonitor%2F&afftrack=Adhdandme

I’m sure that plenty of people would advise me not to post this episode, but I think that being open and honest is so important. I just found out today that I will most likely be miscarrying soon. Since then, I’ve looked into how medication and supplementation could potentially affect fertility and pregnancy. Thank you for your support 🙏🏼. I hope to have better news to share with you all soon. https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=117669&u=3076648&m=16745&urllink=www%2Efairhavenhealth%2Ecom%2Fproduct%2Fovacue%2Dwireless%2Dfertility%2Dmonitor%2F&afftrack=Adhdandme

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Wow, so much has happened since I last recorded here! My husband now lives here with me in a home I purchased last summer. I’m also…pregnant!

In this episode, I share the progress I have made through online counseling and guidance from a good psychiatrist. My husband and I have been getting along surprisingly well...

Well, one would think that my decreased work load and restrictions keeping me from getting too far out of my comfort zone would make it easy to get off my stimulant medications. Think again 🤦🏼‍♀️😄. On a positive note, I’m down to less than 40% of the dosage I was taking before starting this podcast, have been super productive and motivated, and have been able to avoid to temptation to taper back up on an off day. 👍🏻.

Yay - I most likely do NOT have the COVID-19 virus, so I’m finally venturing out into the living room 😂. My husband and I have been getting along really well, and things are falling into place with work. My online therapy is going really well, and I was super happy to be able to see my psychiatrist via videoconferencing.

It’s been almost six full days since I headed home from the airport, and, so far, I’m showing no signs of having caught the virus. 🙏🏼. My husband did try to pick a small fight with me earlier, but I stayed strong. Overall, things are going well. 🥰

With all of this craziness going on due to COVID-19, I had to purchase a new flight to come home sooner than I’d planned. I barely made it out of the country before the airport sit down! On a different note, things went surprisingly well with my narcissistic husband, and I was able to see my former psychiatrist while in the Dominican Republic!

So, I have some issues of my own going on. I’m in the process of finding a new psychiatrist and trying to get my medication situation figured out. That being said, I’m actually feeling pretty optimistic about my upcoming trip to go see my husband. Here’s where I’m at now.

I’ve been taking my stimulant medication, but at a MUCH lower dosage than before. I’m making it a point to exercise and participate in therapy no matter how I’m feeling. I’m determined to stay on track!

I recently started reading the book “Boundaries,” by Dr. Mark Cloud and Dr. John Townsend. Maybe there is some value to this whole religion thing after all!

Well, I’ve been tapering off Adderall for over a month now, and, so far, things are going surprisingly well. 😊

I’d be lying if I said it had been easy, but, overall, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by my ability to push through and get things done without my usual medication.