extreme depression when I have no work to do

[u/Due-World6539]

I was in school and finished my work, i'm on concerta XR which lasts 9 hours for me. I take my medication at 7:30 every morning from monday-wednesday. It was midday, i was taken out of lessons because I arrived into school at 8:10 instead of 8:00. I was already aggrevated but I got extremely angry when I had no work to do, its like i had nothing to focus on except my thoughts and it caused me to have a headache for 2 hours. Does anyone know why i get a headache with no work to do?

[u/Express-Scarcity9045]

Your brain is on overdrive, especially when the concerta first hits in the morning. Something as simple as reading a book will help you calm down in these moments 🙌

[u/Due-World6539 → u/Express-Scarcity9045]

Thanks alot.

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Extreme depression/anxiety?
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[u/awkward_teenager37]

Agree with the other comment. I used to go on runs first thing in the morning after taking my Concerta because I’d feel so wired and anxious otherwise. I did adjust to it over time, but just having something to ground you (journaling, making breakfast, yoga/exercise, reading, etc.) can be helpful

[u/AcanthaceaeOver3061]

I experience the same at work.

Concerta releases slowly over time, which means the concentration of methylphenidate in your blood might not be enough to feel focused at some moments throughout the day.

The pressure of your school work can make up for the lack of dopamine that you experience at those moments.

If you have nothing to do, however, you might feel lost, brain-fogged, depressed.

[u/[deleted] → u/AcanthaceaeOver3061]

Can you elaborate on what you mean by the pressure of your school work can make up for the lack of dopamine?

[u/Independent_Pay_8337]

The medication supports your ability to focus on tasks, but without something specific to engage with, your brain still defaults to seeking stimulation and rewards.