Is controlled substance use a long term solution for ADHD?

[paradiseengineering]

Hi! I have this ideal of not using any substances like weed, caffeine, nicotine and prescription amphetamines to focus and be productive.

Currently 2 weeks sober from weed and i struggle to focus, but the habit also had many downsides. The amphetamine medications help for very structured tasks but kills my personality, creativity and spark over time. Caffeine also helps a bit but also gives me a rebound, and Im trying my best not to get into habitual use. 

Im diagnosed ADD and my personality type is INFP 4w5 I believe. I find it hard to make money from my creativity and working a normal job often bore me to tears. I know many people with similar traits who use substances like this to perform and function. But I wonder if its all a zero-sum game or not. By this I mean that if the boost comes with an equal crash or if it is actually a benefit over time. I do exercise, meditate and eat fairly healthy. I am question if having a completely drug-free baseline is the best long term, or if strategically self medicating with for example a cup of black tea every morning could be a benefit to people like me. The problem is that I often end up being dependent on them and struggling to moderate use.  

I know this is a hard question to give a clear answer and I am more looking to hear experiences, thoughts and have a discussion on the topic.

Peace.

Edited 12 hours ago by paradiseengineering

[Oppositionless]

I was diagnosed with adhd as an adult. Whether I really have it or not I'm not sure. Natural treatments for adhd include exercise and meditation (which you do), but  I believe you can probably check both of those boxes in one with yoga or other body-based spiritual practices. That might be more effective for focus than training them separately.
 

If caffeine leads to a crash you could try experimenting with nootropics. Leo has a nootropics video. L-theanine helps with focus and when you take it with caffeine it can chill out some of the downsides of caffeine. 

I agree with you on not liking stimulants. I hate the way they make me feel even if I'm a little more productive.

Edited 11 hours ago by Oppositionless