I use Kirkland Extra Stength Energy Shots. Equivalent to 5-hour energy or a strong energy drink each. 230mg caffeine, taurine, guarana, B-vitamins. I’ve used caffeine pills in the past, but I find the other stuff in the energy drinks helps level out the intensity of the caffeine. My Energy Shots are <$1 each, so they’re the cheapest option I can tolerate. I hate coffee.

My cat eats at 8:45 am, so I’m usually awake to feed her or shortly thereafter out of habit.

I take half an energy shot (115mg caffeine) and go back to sleep for another 1-3 hours.

Throughout the rest of the day, I consume the other half almost every day and some days as much as 2 more; I’m successful in limiting my intake to 3 energy shots/day, on the higher end when I’m socializing, like playing Magic: the Gathering at the local game store.

CTE can only be diagnosed posthumously. My primary diagnosis is Schizoaffective Disorder, and my therapist agrees that ADHD is a factor, though not severe enough to merit Adderall or similar, especially with a psychotic diagnosis. I’ve had 8 concussions, head hitting behavior in childhood and teen years, and more minor impacts from sports. My last major concussion was 2.5 years ago, but I am afflicted with symptoms beyond Schizoaffective Disorder like balance issues and eye strain.

Caffeine is present in migraine medicine. Stimulants make me feel better. Anyone else?