Hi everyone,

I'm at an impasse with my ADHD and anxiety treatment. I was diagnosed with non-hyperactive ADHD at 10, now 40, and haven't been medicated since 25. I've had untreated anxiety since my teens, always scoring severe or moderately-severe on the GAD-7.

I self-medicated with alcohol for 20 years, which ruined my life over the last 7 years. I'm 8 months sober and in therapy, readdressing my mental health. Recently, I was misdiagnosed with Bipolar ADHD but a second psychiatrist diagnosed me with GAD ADHD, which fits better.

First, I was put on Effexor for GAD, but it caused dizziness, headaches, shakiness, insomnia, erectile dysfunction, and inability to orgasm. This is common for me regarding SNRIs. I switched to Buspar, which has been amazing.

For ADHD, they avoided controlled substances and stimulants due to anxiety and potential for addiction. I can't take Wellbutrin due to a history of seizures, so I tried Strattera (also an SNRI) but had the same side effects as Effexor.

What are my options now? Should I consider non-stimulant blood pressure meds? They seem weak for my ADHD. Or push for Ritalin (which I took as a child and teenager), despite the anxiety risk? Anyone else in a similar situation?

Thanks for any advice!