I used to keep fish. I loved learning about the nitrogen cycle, setting up the co2 diffuser, balancing tank parameters, designing the filtration system, researching, purchasing, and acclimating exotic fish. Fascinating, colorful and compelling. But once the set up was done and I had a mature tank I was bored and dreaded basic maintenance. The fish didn’t deserve a subpar home so I did my best, but when we moved and sold the set up, I never went back.
I’m so glad to hear your prescription works well and you’re feeling better. It can be hell to go without medication!
That being said, many people may take the exact opposite approach to their meds and that’s ok too. Some people only take them on days they need them and prefer to avoid the side effects / burnout that some feel from prolonged stimulant use. Both approaches are ok, just wanted anyone else reading this that the daily approach may or may not be what’s best for them or recommended by their prescriber.
OCD doesn’t have to have rituals necessarily but that’s what most people think of as a hallmark of OCD. A differential dx like this is important, but hard to do without a professional who can help you not just list your symptoms, but assess the qualitative nature of them.
Regardless, it does sound like this impacts your functioning and happiness, I’m glad you’re reaching out and getting some support.
I agree that sensory sensitivities are also more common in ASD, but ADHD, especially in more severe cases, can also have sensory sensitivities as can OCD and other conditions.
OP I think there’s enough here to justify an evaluation by a psychologist if you can afford it / it’s available where you are. If not, reading about ADHD and applying some of those strategies will not hurt you. I’d recommend ADHD 2.0 as a starting point.
ADHD and anxiety are also comorbid, and some of your symptoms may be more about anxiety and might respond well to anxiety related interventions. ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) has several good workbooks about anxiety which could be helpful.
You could consider getting a psychological assessment that will give you an idea of your cognitive strengths and weaknesses. They can also administer instruments like the Strong Interest Inventory if you’re still looking for help deciding on a career.
It takes about 5 half lives to clear 95% of a substance from your system. A quick google says the half life varies from 5-21hrs, so even if you’re on the slower end, a week should do it.
If you’ve been on it for a very long time then your CNS may need more time to get back to baseline, but you probably don’t need a perfectly clean slate to assess if a new medication works for you. Plus, switching from a nonstim to a stimulant is a totally different class of drug and you should feel the effects of a stimulant fairly quickly.
Just make sure you time and dose correctly to avoid messing up your sleep.