I have been seeing psychiatrists (7) over the last 23 years for depression and manic depression. Medication for depression have all been of little or no help. Eight months ago my depression had reached a low point where I asked my doctor to "look in his magic bag of tricks" for something. I was desperate to say the least. He prescribed Adderall. It was like a switch was flipped. I looked up what this medication was used for and discovered ADHD. My ignorance on the subject was exstensive. However, a new spectrum of issues have come to light. Anxiety, anger, frustration have complicated further trials since then. The depression has returned and I have lost confidence in the stimulant medications. I am not a well adjusted person, socially, having chosen to isolate myself for various reasons relating to my "mental illnesses." I see this now as being a huge mistake on my part. There is more to say in describing myself and my situation, but I need to get to the point, now. Question: do the stimulant meds have a tendency to alter a persons cognitive abilities in such a way that during the affective duration, a false sense of progress or wellbeing is created? When the meds wear off, I find myself in an uneasy and sometimes dazed and confused state of mind. This is more the case with the methylphenidate meds than with amphetamine meds. I would like a second oppinion on this if possible. Thanks. Major depression does not seem to be a talked about subject. I don't seem to fall into the "classic" childhood symptomology. Nonetheless, ADHD does offer a discription of my past and present almost to a "T". Any advice or suggestions would be appreciated.
