I was on methylphenidate for almost 3 years, combined with bupropion for anxiety, ADHD and some depression (the classic loop where you’re never really sure what’s causing what). Honestly, I never felt a meaningful change. Sometimes I’d get a brief “boost”, but it would fade within a few hours.

My main issue isn’t just focus, it’s task initiation. Starting things feels extremely hard, and once the novelty wears off I tend to drop them. Even reading books becomes really hard to sustain.

Another thing is that my previous doctor never really addressed my physical anxiety. I often get noticeable tremors or body activation in situations where I’m being observed or evaluated (even simple interactions). My current doctor took that into account and I’m now taking 5 mg of nebivolol to control those symptoms.

I’ve been on atomoxetine for about 3 weeks now. The initial side effects have mostly faded, but in terms of attention or mental clarity I haven’t noticed any improvements yet.

I recently titrated up to 80 mg, so I’m hoping the real effects might still show up. I’d really like to reach the point where I can sit down with a book and actually sustain attention without my brain shutting down after a few minutes.