I haven't had ritalin but took adderall for some time. I did feel like it helped, but it became a crutch (for me). In the years while I took it, I learned to retrain my mind - according to my doctor we can retrain the mind. So for some time I felt I needed it, could not function without. But I'm actually ok without it now. I really focus just fine outside of an episode.

Looking back, it is too risky for me to take it. I have abused it before and it has thrown me into mood cycling.

Be careful & be honest with your doc if you start wanting to abuse it, my advice. Cuz that's a good sign for you & doc to catch an episode coming on and prevent all the mayhem & suffering the 'sodes create.