I think that age is really one of the big factors to look at when it comes to dealing with ADD (Attention Defecit Disorder, for those who don't know). I was diagnosed with ADD at 10 years old and I was put on Adderall soon afterwards. I noticed a lot of the same symptoms you're talking about, even if it did help me concentrate a lot better. I'm 18 now, and I don't take my meds anymore because I don't need them. As you get older, some of the symptoms of ADD begin to fade as your brain develops more. I don't know the specifics of your case of ADD, but here's some general things you can do that may help:
- While meds can help you focus, you can learn to do it without them too. It's all a matter of realizing when you start to lose focus and trying to get yourself back on track.
- Talk to your doctor about the dosage that you take. You really might not need as much as you're taking, and you can often find a good balance between being able to focus and avoiding some of the negative side effects you talked about.
- Make a schedule for when you practice. Set time limits for each exercise that you do, and make goals for what you want to accomplish. If you find yourself playing too fast, use a metronome.
- Most importantly, don't look to your meds as your only way of dealing with having ADD. They can help, but your friends and family are equally important in treating it.
Hope I offered you something good
James
