Failing on the ‘Focus Drug’: Why University Got Easier Off Ritalin & Vyvanse — An International Community Member’s Addy Free Story

<p>On this month’s episode of the Addy Free Podcast, we’re welcoming <strong>community member Abby</strong>—our <strong>first active college student</strong> and our <strong>first international member</strong>, joining us all the way from <strong>New Zealand</strong>. Proof that <strong>Adderall and stimulant medication dependency is a global issue</strong>.</p><p>In this episode, Abby shares how the <strong>ADHD medication prescribed to help her focus at university—including stimulant drugs like Adderall and Vyvanse—actually led her to fail</strong> academically, emotionally, and personally. She opens up about the pressure to perform, the side effects of stimulant use, and how breaking free from a medication she believed she needed helped her manage her ADHD <strong>more effectively without stimulants</strong>—both in school and in life.</p><p>In our Addy Free meetings, people often describe Abby as someone who “glows.” Her story is living proof that <strong>getting off stimulant medication doesn’t have to be all withdrawal and darkness</strong>. Sometimes, recovery becomes <strong>empowering, grounding, and deeply rewarding</strong>—especially when supported by community, honesty, and self-trust.</p><p><br></p><p>Referenced resources mentioned:</p><p>https://www.waikato.ac.nz/int/news-events/news/more-than-meds-why-easier-access-to-adhd-treatment-has-to-be-part-of-a-whole-system-approach/</p><p>https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7340a1.htm?utm_source</p>