“I don’t see the difference”

I was having a conversation with someone with regards to my meds. Yes, I do use some ADHD meds, like some others with ADHD/ADD do. While some chose not to use them. Either way, it is a personal decision and there is no right or wrong choice, in this case. At least, that’s my opinion.

There are a few reasons why I chose to take my ADHD meds. It pretty much comes down to I find that it helps me focus and be more productive. I find that there’s a huge difference between when I do take them and when I don’t. For some, like myself, they can be helpful.

Sure, medication isn’t for everyone with ADHD/ADD. Some prefer not to take them and still have ways to be productive and such. If that works, then great!

At the end of the day, we are all different, and what works for me may not work for others, and vice versa.
Now, recently, I was talking to someone about why I take medication. This person has said that he doesn’t see a difference. This is someone that I’m close to and he knows me.

I’ll admit that this isn’t something that I think a lot about. I don’t often think about how others may see me with medication versus me without them. Not that it doesn’t matter, but it’s just not something that I often think about.

When thinking and talking about it, I can see where he may be coming from. There may not be a huge difference. At least, not a huge and visible one from someone else looking at me, my behaviour, attitude, etc.

Here’s the thing though. I notice the difference. I feel the difference. It’s like night and day. I am able to focus a little more easily. I can remember things better. I am able to sit and actually write this blog post for instance. It does help me a lot and I feel its benefits.

Medication can help a lot of us with ADHD/ADD. They can help people like me.

So, others may not notice a difference. They may not see it. But it is there. The difference is within us. We do feel it and we notice it. I certainly notice a difference when I’m taking my meds as opposed to being off meds.
I’m not trying to promote medication or say that all ADHD/ADD individuals should use them or say that everyone should notice the difference. I’m not saying or trying to do any of these things. I do understand why some chose to either take them or not. I do understand why the difference might not be easily seen to others.

However, what I guess I’m trying to say is that we should be able to chose to whether we want to take them or not. And if they are beneficial, then they should be used. They should be used wisely and used by individuals with ADHD/ADD, like myself.

If others don’t see the difference, then that’s fine. Considering that ADHD/ADD is neurological, it does make sense. Just like we may not always notice the anxiety that someone is dealing with. It makes sense.

At the end of the day, I guess it is us ADHDers/ADDers using the meds that notice the difference. It benefits us most. And I guess that’s really what matters the most. We should be able to take them.

Picture Credit Pixabay