But First, Coffee

Today in one of the ADHD groups I follow, someone asked if any squirrels medicated themselves with caffeine. I’ve seen this topic before, so I thought I’d blog about it.

I’m an unmedicated squirrel. It’s not that I don’t believe in medicine for ADHD—actually, it’s quite the opposite. I’m completely for medicating kids and adults with ADHD, as long as they’re comfortable with it. Unfortunately for me, meds increase my anxiety levels.

Caffeine does help, but only one symptom. It basically stimulates my mind and gives me the little boost I need to complete a task. Like this blog for instance. I had the idea and wanted to complete it before 9am, so I poured a mug of coffee and began immediately.

Side note: Diet Coke is my caffeine of choice. In my opinion it works better than coffee. I know a lot of squirrels who self medicate with Mountain Dew. Probably due to the fact the caffeine content is higher than most sodas.

Squirrels lack dopamine, and although coffee does put you in a better mood, it’s fleeting. If you truly have ADHD, the meds work differently than on someone without ADHD. For someone without it, it is basically working in the same way coffee works—which is why Adderall is one of the most abused prescribed drugs. If you do have ADHD it not only gives you the “coffee boost”, it also makes you feel content all day which keeps you from making impulsive decisions to boost your dopamine.

What people don’t seem to understand, is that ADHD is so much more than being hyper and lazy. It plays a huge part in controlling impulses, emotions and moods. Which is why so many people with ADHD are misdiagnosed with bipolar and personality disorders. The medicine helps with all of this. It may be a stimulant, but it calms our restless minds.

I miss being medicated. It was nice to feel content with life and to have to the ability to stop and think before reacting. It’s so much harder without meds. I may try them again in the future. I’ve only tried Ritalin and Adderall and there are so many more options now.

For me, exercise really helps me with mood and focus. I really enjoy a fast paced walk. I’ve noticed after I exercise I’m able to clean my house or cook dinner without feeling completely overwhelmed. Most of my writing ideas come to me while I’m exercising. It seems to get my brain working and I’m able to clear my cluttered thoughts and get things done.

So, in my opinion nothing works as well as meds for someone with ADHD. However, caffeine and exercise work too if you are unable to take meds.

Stay Squirrely,

Dana 🐿