3 replies to this topic

[JMorgan]

Hi all.  I'm looking for advice on supplements that will improve mental clarity and focus, and perhaps to manage dopamine levels.

 

I work from home a lot but I'm easily distracted by dopamine-seeking activities (like video games, streaming and the like) when I need to be focused on other tasks. I realize this is partly a behavioral matter that needs to be addressed, but if there are supplements or other means to make my brain chemistry work for me, rather than against me, I'd be grateful for that.

 

I take occasional vitamins & supplements, but nothing really regularly.

 

I've used modafinal/armodafinal occasionally and that has helped, but due to cost and shipping, I'd love other supplements that are more readily available.

 

I've read about ashwagandha, phosphatidylserine, glutamine, tyrosine, creatine and theanine. Would any of these actually help in avoiding distractions and remaining focused? Reviews for different products seem promising, but I never could tell if what I'm reading is accurate.

 

What else would you suggest? Thanks!

[dududadudu]

Hi from your post it seems that distraction is more like a behavioural/habit problem rather than ADHD related problem? or have you been to doctors/psychiatrists for suggestions as since you are considering medicines the problems may be more servere than just behavioral control issues? 

as an ADHDer my suggestions about improving concentration or at least finishing some tasks are: do some squats once you get bored with current task no matter how minor the discomfort is; supplements includes Vitamin D +k2, Vitamin B group and Ca+ and Mg+, and most importantly yogurt with pure ingredients help me to adjust my gut flora which can benefit the nerve system. Gradually I don't need to stick to strict timelines or to do list.

good luck

[Mind]

Like you mentioned, this is mainly behavioral. I get distracted too. I have to work hard to focus, meditate, relax without stimulation. Work at it and your brain will adjust. Video games, social media, APPs, etc are as addictive as any drug. It takes intention and commitment to get it under control.

 

If you have a friend/acquaintance/ partner to help you out, that is good.

 

Sure, there are some good supplements to keep your brain in good health, but if you take something for better concentration, you will just end up concentrating even harder on the distractions.

 

When you reach for your phone or game controller, stop yourself, and go for a walk around the block, or even for a couple of miles (without your phone). Look at the scenery, look at the people. Think about the neighborhood and the people that live there. Notice your surroundings.

[JMorgan]

Thank you both. (And it's great to see you Mind. I haven't been around in a looong time. I'm glad to see you're still directly involved here!)

 

Indeed, it is a behavior problem. I've never been diagnosed, but I strongly suspect ADHD to some degree. While I have difficulty getting motivated, I can also be hyper-focused at times. If I hit a stride, I can remain focused for hours, though this doesn't happen as often as it used to. I'd love to get back to my marathon 12+ hour video editing sessions again.

 

I'm also a great procrastinator. If I want to do a task (such as video editing), a pattern emerges where I'll spend more time preparing (acquiring snacks, cleaning workstation, etc) that it will delay my work. I might eventually start working, but when time inevitably gets away from me, I'll berate myself over my inability to accomplish anything.  So yes, I definitely need to tackle how I approach things and work on myself in this regard. I was just hoping there might be something that helps clear the brain fog to get me moving again.

 

Vitamin D, Mg, and Vit B make sense. I've started taking supplements that include those. Any particular reason you suggest Ca+?

 

The suggestions to take a walk, or do squats and such actually seem to help as well. Getting the blood flowing seems to work wonders to improve the mood.