Author: andree1232

Crypto mining rigs aren’t ordinary machines. They use a combination of specialty hardware and Graphical Processing Units (GPUs) to support the complex calculations required to verify transactions on a Proof of Work (PoW) blockchain. Accordingly, the parts for these machines are in high demand in the crypto community.

But there is an option for enthusiasts who like a little DIY while keeping their budget low. That option is used crypto mining rigs.

In this guide, you’ll discover how you can mine on a budget with used mining rigs that you can easily purchase online in 2024.

Do People Still Mine Crypto?

The short answer is yes, they do. But, the practice has evolved over the years.

During the bitcoin boom in 2017, we saw the price of BTC rally from $1,000 to $20,000, which led to a shortage of graphics cards and mining rigs due to the high demand for digital currency mining equipment.

Fast forward to 2021, a similar scene unfolded, mainly thanks to Ethereum (back when it was PoW). This surge accounted for nearly 25% of all GPU sales, with miners spending around $15 billion on GPUs in just 18 months.

Amidst this frenzy, bitcoin miners weren’t left behind.  Manufacturers like Bitmain, for instance, in 2021 doubled their hardware prices. Yet, their strategy didn’t deter buyers; they pre-sold months’ worth of inventory within mere weeks.

As of this writing, Nvidia’s top-tier graphics card, the RTX 4090, regularly faces stock shortages and price increases when in stock. While it may be premature to sound the alarm, there is a noticeable shift in the market, with significant shortages (not necessarily caused by crypto mining) observed in countries like Japan.

With shortages and rising prices for GPUs the norm in recent years, and expected to continue, what’s a miner (or prospective miner) to do?

Picking up some used GPUs at bargain prices is the answer, and we’ve compiled a list of the best used mining rigs for miners to consider in 2024.

The Best Used Mining Rigs of 2024

We have compiled a list of seven digital currency miners that can be bought second-hand on major retail platforms such as eBay or Amazon. To rank the machines, we looked at the current (used) market price, hash power, how much energy each machine consumes, how user-friendly they are, and when they were initially released. Note that since these are used rigs, prices can vary significantly based on supply and demand, and the prices we found may no longer be available.

Used Mining Rigs Reviewed

Bitmain unveiled the Antminer T9+ in January 2018, targeting miners who prioritize efficiency. The rig uses the SHA-256 algorithm, making it suitable for mining over 40 different coins. Although it offers a modest hash rate of 10.5 TH/s, the T9+ is decent in terms of efficiency, with an energy consumption of up to 1423W. This balance ensures that while the hash rate might seem lower compared to some other rigs, the reduced power consumption can translate to higher potential profits for miners.

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Following in the footsteps of miners with lower hash rates, like the Antminer S5, the DragonMint T1 emerged in April 2018. Manufactured by Halong Mining, this miner offers a hash rate of 16TH/s, which matches its relatively low power consumption of just 1480W. Such efficiency positions the DragonMint T1 as an attractive option for those looking to mine bitcoin without excessively high energy costs.

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AvalonMiner 

A successor to Canaan’s earlier model, the AvalonMiner 1246 was introduced a year later in 2021. The rig tries to build on the foundation laid by its predecessor by enhancing the blend of performance and affordability. While its hash rate of 90 TH/s might not lead the pack in sheer performance metrics, it’s still more powerful but draws slightly more power than its predecessor at 3420W. The rig can mine over ten types of coins, including BTC and BCH.

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AvalonMiner

Canaan Creative Technology Company, another leader in the mining hardware industry, introduced the Avalon Miner A1166 Pro in August 2020. Built with the SHA-256 hashing algorithm, the rig mines over 40 different ASIC SHA-256 coins, including notable ones like bitcoin, bitcoin SV, bitcoin Cash, and Peercoin. With a hash rate of 81 TH/s the mining rig draws significant power of 3400W.

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WhatsMiner 

MicroBT introduced the WhatsMiner M32-68T, an SHA-256 miner, in July 2020. This rig boasts a hash rate of 62TH/s, though with a notable power consumption of 3348W. As mentioned, such a pronounced power requirement signifies that while the M32 is a powerhouse in terms of mining capability, it also demands higher operational costs, especially in terms of electricity. Similar to its successor, this miner might be a worthy choice for people with access to affordable energy.

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Antminer

Bitmain, a renowned mining hardware manufacturer,  launched the Antminer S19 XP in July 2022, optimized for SHA-256. The rig comes with a hash rate of 140TH/s and power consumption of 3010W, which is less than some other high-end bitcoin miners. It’s one of the most power-efficient rigs in the market, therefore helping miners reduce electricity costs and boost potential mining profits.

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Whatsminer 

MicroBT unveiled the Whatsminer M30 S++ in October 2020. The rig boasts an incredible hash rate of 112TH/s, though it comes with a considerable power draw of 3472W, making it one of the more power-hungry units in the market. While its performance metrics make it a standout, new miners, especially those on a budget, should approach it with caution due to its high energy consumption. It’s a miner best suited for those who have access to affordable electricity.

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Antminer 

Bitmain’s Antminer S5, launched in 2014, was a favorite among the mining community for its efficiency and affordability. Employing the SHA-256 algorithm, it delivers a modest hash rate of 1.155TH/s, while operating at a power consumption of 590W. At the time of its release, the S5 was one of the most efficient and swift ASIC miners in the market. However, like all tech products, newer models have since emerged, overshadowing its once-dominant presence. Nevertheless, the S5 remains an option for miners looking for a cost-effective solution.

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What Is a Crypto Mining Rig?

A crypto mining rig is a specialized hardware setup used by crypto enthusiasts to participate in a Proof of Work blockchain to earn coins.

In PoW blockchains, transactions are verified via a pool of users known as “miners.” Each miner provides computational power to the blockchain to verify blocks of transactions via complex cryptographic calculations. The “winner” of each block (the miner who solves the calculations the fastest) earns a set number of tokens.

Suffice it to say miners have a leg up on their competition when they have more computing power to provide to the blockchain. But this computing power doesn’t come from an enthusiast at home with an off-the-shelf machine–blockchain calculations are immensely difficult and require specific hardware tailored for these problems.

There are three approaches one can take to crypto mining rigs:

GPU Rigs

GPUs are specifically designed to handle a volume of parallel calculations typically found in graphical design and gaming. This processing configuration makes them uniquely suited for other problems, including crypto mining. GPU rigs are the most common form of rig, as GPUs are relatively available for consumers (even if price and availability fluctuate).

CPU Rigs

Initially, the creators of bitcoin expected users to mine crypto with their CPUs. However, a traditional CPU is built more for serialized processing and multitasking rather than high-volume parallel processing. As such, CPU mining isn’t competitive in the bitcoin space.

ASIC Rigs

Application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) are highly specialized hardware where internal circuits for processing, storage, and memory are custom-built with a single application in mind. This gives them plenty of power to accomplish their specific task (in this case, crypto mining) but makes them unsuitable for any other use. ASICs will often surpass their GPU counterparts, with the caveat that they are hard to get, expensive, and only suitable for one use.

What Should I Look For in a Used Crypto Mining Rig?

When considering a cryptocurrency mining rig, several factors come into play to ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and return on investment. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

• Hashing Power: The speed at which a mining rig can solve the cryptographic puzzles required to mine a block, known as the Hash Rate, is crucial. A higher hash rate increases the chance of solving a block and earning rewards.
• Power Efficiency: Lower electricity consumption for a given hash rate is preferable, as it reduces operational costs. Power efficiency is often expressed as Watts per Gigahash (W/GH).
• Hardware: The right rig should have a powerful processor (GPU or ASIC), a motherboard that can handle heavy workloads, sufficient memory and storage, and high-level colling systems (like liquid cooling) to handle processor heat.
• Manufacturer Reputation: Look for reputable manufacturers with positive reviews and reliable customer support. Ensure the manufacturer has a track record of delivering quality products and honoring warranties.

Check Mining Profitability Before Buying Mining Hardware

Before jumping onto the digital currency mining bandwagon and launching a small at-home mining operation, check mining profitability for the miner(s) you intend to buy and the coins you intend to mine. Digital asset prices change every second, and mining difficulties adjust on an ongoing basis. Mining profitability can, therefore,  quickly move from profitable to unprofitable.

Hence, it is highly advisable to check mining profitability using specialized online mining calculators, such as the CryptoCompare calculator, before making any purchases.

Gut-brain research is an exciting and evolving field that sheds new light on our relationship between mental health and digestive system. The gut, also known as the “second-brain,” is believed to play a crucial role in determining emotions, moods, and anxiety levels. This article will examine the complex relationship between anxiety, gut-brain connections, stress and practical strategies to promote a healthier, happier gut.

Understanding the Gut-Brain Connection

The enteric nervous system: Our second brain

Enteric nervous system is a sophisticated and complex network of neurons in the gut. The vagus nerve is the basis of the gut-brain link. This system does not merely manage digestion.

The Gut Microbiome

https://www.datacamp.com/portfolio/buy-xanax-online-any-time-when-you-needGut microbiome is a collective term for the amazing array of microorganisms that live in our gut. This dynamic ecosystem, which includes bacteria, viruses and fungi influences digestion, immunity function and overall health. Recent research has highlighted its critical role in mental health, and the development anxiety.

The Gut Microbiome and Anxiety

Neurotransmitter Production

The gut microbiome produces neurotransmitters that are critical in regulating moods and anxiety. The gut microbiome influences two neurotransmitters: serotonin (and gamma aminobutyric acid, or GABA). An imbalance in these neurotransmitters may contribute to anxiety disorders.

Inflammation Regulation

A healthy gut microbiome is essential to maintaining the right levels of inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to mental health issues, such as anxiety. Unbalanced gut microbiome may lead to inflammation and anxiety.

Stress Response

The gut-brain link is crucial in modulating stress responses. Stress can cause changes in gut function and disrupt the balance of gut microbiome. This may lead to anxiety.

Immune System Influence

The gut microbiome can have a profound effect on the immune response, which is intimately linked to anxiety. Dysregulation of gut microbiome may influence immune function, and lead to anxiety disorders.

Stress and the Gut-Brain connection

Stress and Gut Health

Chronic stress can disturb the balance of the microbiome in the gut. Stress hormones such as cortisol can alter gut motility, gut permeability, and gut microbiome composition.

Inflammation Stress-Induced

Stress-induced inflammation may negatively impact the gut lining and cause a condition called “leaky stomach.” This permeability can allow harmful substances to enter your bloodstream and trigger an immune response.

Gut-Brain communication

Stress can disrupt communication between the gut, the brain and affect mood and anxiety. Under chronic stress, the gut-brain link can become dysregulated and affect emotional and mental health.

How to promote a healthy gut for anxiety relief

Diet and nutrition

For a healthy microbiome, a balanced and varied diet is crucial. Include fiber-rich foods and fermented food in your diet. These foods promote the growth of good gut bacteria.

Probiotics, Supplements, and Other Products

Probiotic supplements may introduce beneficial bacteria into the gut. Before taking any supplements, consult a health professional to determine which options are best for you.

Stress Management

Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing can reduce anxiety and improve gut health.

Regular Exercise

Physical activity can promote a healthy microbiome in the gut and help to manage anxiety. Regular exercise is important for both your physical and mental health.

Sleep Hygiene

Sleep is important for a healthy connection between the gut and brain. Poor sleep can affect gut health and increase anxiety. Create a sleep routine that is consistent and comfortable.

Limit Sugar in Processed Foods

Gut health can be negatively affected by high-sugar, processed foods. Reduce or eliminate these foods from your daily diet to contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.

Professional Support

Consult healthcare professionals including dietitians, mental health experts and dieticians to develop a customized plan for managing anxiety.

The conclusion of the article is:

The gut-brain link is an area of complex research that has significant implications for mental well-being. It is important for those seeking relief to understand the impact of stress, the gut microbiome and the gut-brain connection on anxiety. Implementing strategies that promote a healthy digestive system can help individuals not only reduce anxiety, but also improve their overall health. Remember that every person has a unique gut microbiome. Personalized approaches to gut health can be needed to address anxiety-related needs.

Water is the most basic and necessary element of human existence, sometimes known as the “elixir of life.” Sustaining health requires enough hydration for a variety of reasons, including sustaining different body processes and promoting general wellbeing. This extensive piece delves into the science of hydration, examining the various functions of water in the body, warning signals of dehydration, and doable strategies to maintain proper hydration for best health.

The Value of Staying Hydrated

The process of keeping the body’s water balance at an appropriate level is known as hydration. Since water makes up the majority of the human body, it is a necessary food for survival. There is no physiological process that water is not involved in, and its importance cannot be emphasized.

Water’s Functions in the Body

Water is an essential component of many bodily functions that impact different physiological processes, such as:Regulation of Temperature:

By allowing heat to be released through perspiration and evaporative cooling, water aids in controlling body temperature.Movement of Nutrients:

Water is a medium through which waste products are removed from cells and nutrients and oxygen are transported.Breakdown:

Watery saliva helps with the first breakdown of food in the mouth. In the stomach and intestines, water is also required for nutrient absorption and digestion.Lubricating joints:

The main component of synovial fluid, which lubricates joints, is water. Drinking enough water is essential for preserving joint health and range of motion.Blood Volume Preservation:

The heart can pump blood efficiently and supply oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs only if there is an adequate volume of blood in the body. Waste Disposal:

Water facilitates the removal of waste through bowel movements, sweat, and urine. Skin Conditions:

By preserving hydration and elasticity, proper hydration promotes health, radiant skin.Mental Process:

Memory, focus, and general mental function can all be negatively impacted by dehydration.

Indications of Dehydration

When the body loses more water than it takes in, it becomes dehydrated and its fluid levels become unbalanced. It is essential to identify the symptoms of dehydration in order to act quickly. Typical indications and symptoms consist of:Thrill:

The body’s first indication that it needs water is thirst. Your body is already mildly dehydrated when you experience thirst. Dark Pee:

Urine with a dark yellow or amber color indicates concentrated urine, which frequently indicates dehydration.Dry Skin and Mouth:

Parched lips, dry mouth, and dry skin can all be symptoms of dehydration. Tiredness:

Fatigue, lightheadedness, and a decline in both physical and mental function can result from dehydration.Pain in the head:

Given that dehydration causes the brain to momentarily constrict, a headache could be a sign of the condition. Spasms of Muscle:

Muscle cramps can be brought on by dehydration, especially when exercising.Quick Heartbeat:

Dehydration can cause palpitations or a fast heartbeat, which are symptoms of the body trying to keep blood pressure stable. Decreased Urination

Dehydration may be indicated by infrequent urination or passing trace amounts of dark urine.

Dehydration Types

Depending on the causes and individual effects on the body, there are various types of dehydration:Hypertonic (Deficiency in Water):

This kind of dehydration raises blood sodium levels because you lose more water than electrolytes. It may be brought on by excessive perspiration, dehydration, or certain medical disorders.Hypotonic (Deficiency in Electrolytes):

When you lose more electrolytes than water, you can become hypotonic dehydrated, which lowers your blood sodium levels. It can be caused by excessive water intake without sufficient electrolytes. Isotonic (Balanced Loss):

Isotonic dehydration involves the loss of both water and electrolytes in balanced proportions. This type of dehydration is commonly associated with vomiting and diarrhea.

Factors Affecting Hydration Needs

Several factors influence an individual’s hydration needs: Climate and Temperature:

Hot and humid environments can lead to increased fluid loss through sweat, necessitating higher fluid intake.Physical Activity:

Exercise and physical activity increase fluid requirements due to perspiration and increased metabolic demands. Age:

Children and the elderly are more susceptible to dehydration. Infants have a higher proportion of body water, and older adults often have a reduced sense of thirst.Health Conditions:

Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease, can affect fluid balance and hydration needs. Pregnancy and Lactation:

Pregnant and breastfeeding women require increased fluid intake to support their changing bodies and the needs of the growing fetus or infant.

Practical Hydration Tips

To maintain optimal hydration and promote health, consider the following practical tips:Set a Daily Water Goal:

Determine your daily water intake goal based on your individual needs, activity level, and climate. A common guideline is the “8×8 rule,” which suggests drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. Listen to Your Body:

Pay attention to your body’s signals. If you feel thirsty, drink water. Thirst is a reliable indicator of your hydration needs.Carry a Reusable Water Bottle:

Keep a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day to make it easy to sip water regularly.Monitor Urine Color:

Check the color of your urine. Light yellow or pale straw indicates good hydration, while dark yellow or amber suggests dehydration. Hydrate Before and After Exercise:

Drink water before, during, and after exercise to maintain fluid balance and support optimal performance.Include Water-Rich Foods:

Consume water-rich foods like fruits (e.g., watermelon, cucumbers) and vegetables (e.g., lettuce, zucchini) to boost your daily water intake. Limit Dehydrating Beverages:

Limit or avoid beverages that can contribute to dehydration, such as alcohol and excessive caffeine.Hydrate in Hot Weather:

In hot weather, increase your fluid intake to compensate for greater sweat loss. Use Electrolyte Supplements Wisely:

In extreme conditions or during vigorous exercise, consider electrolyte supplements to maintain proper electrolyte balance. Customize Your Hydration Plan: – Tailor your hydration plan to your unique needs and lifestyle. Factors like age, activity level, and health conditions should guide your approach to hydration.

Effects of Chronic Dehydration

Chronic dehydration, which occurs when the body consistently receives insufficient water, can have serious consequences for healtKidney Stones:

A lack of water can lead to the formation of kidney stones, which can be painful and require medical intervention. Urinary Tract Infections:

Insufficient hydration can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Digestive Issues:

Chronic dehydration may lead to constipation and other digestive problems.

Cognitive Impairment:

Memory, focus, and general mental function can all be negatively impacted by dehydration.

Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases:

Chronic dehydration is associated with an increased risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension.

 Reduced Physical Performance:

Dehydration negatively impacts physical performance, leading to reduced endurance and strength during exercise.

Conclusion

Water is the lifeblood of our existence, and its importance for health cannot be overstated. Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining optimal bodily functions, supporting overall well-being, and ensuring peak performance in daily life. By understanding the science of hydration, recognizing the signs of dehydration, and following practical tips to stay properly hydrated, individuals can safeguard their health and unlock the myriad benefits that come with proper hydration. In the grand tapestry of health, water truly is life’s essential ingredient.

I started writing a book. I learned to spell. And, most importantly, God spoke to me. It’s been quite a journey.

This is a personal essay, not a recommendation endorsed or endorsed by ATTitude. Speak to your doctor for more information on ADHD treatment.

In 1993, I was diagnosed as having ADHD, Combined Type. I was 41 at the time. In the early 1990s, clinicians began to consider ADHD as an adult diagnosis. It was believed that ADHD was only a childhood condition that would pass by late adolescence. I learned about ADHD during a professional conference I attended. I remember thinking, upon hearing the diagnosis criteria and validity of ADHD continuing into adulthood: “Well, that explains a great deal about my life.” and “I wish I had known about this years earlier!”

After a few tests and an interview with a mental healthcare professional, I was diagnosed with ADHD, Combined Type. I was prescribed Ritalin. Over the years, I’ve tried a few different ADHD medications. Despite a few adverse side effects that I have physically adjusted to or learned to tolerate, I have taken 20 milligrams of brand-name Ritalin every 3 1/2 hours ever since.

Since then, I’ve become less strict about taking my medications on time. They say that “the biggest issue for people with ADHD, is that they forget their medication.”

Since I’ve been taking Ritalin for so long, I am prone to forgetting it. If I don’t put in place mechanisms to remind me when I last took a dose (to remember when to take the next one), I may even forget that I ever took it. It is disconcerting that after taking this medication for nearly 10,000 days, I sometimes confuse the day I think I took the dose with the one I took. I’m also so busy I can’t remember when I took my medication. I’m unsure if I considered taking the drug, but I forgot.

In the past, I would use my digital watch’s backtime to remind me to take my medicine on time. Now that I wear a new look, I write down the time on my hand to confirm I’ve taken the dose and to remind me when to take the following amount. I’m sure you’ll see some ink on my hand if we ever meet. You will know exactly what it means. But let’s keep this a secret.

Adult ADHD?

I had no idea what to expect when I started taking my medication. I thought it would fix all my problems. It didn’t work out that way. Fortunately, my psychiatrist and other supportive people helped me to understand that medication could only make my brain function more normally. I was responsible for my personal growth. The old saying “old habits are difficult to break” is undoubtedly true. But the older I become, the more I realize that these habits, as maladaptive as they might have appeared, were coping strategies that I developed by myself in the absence of information on ADHD. Once I was drugged and could access my brainpower more effectively and consistently, the changes started.

It was only after I read about ADHD that I began to see the changes. I learned why I acted as I did and discovered other options to help me survive. The story of a student in elementary school who said that the medicine didn’t change him, but it gave him a moment to reflect before he did something, was one I will never forget. This helped me to have a better understanding of the treatment and recovery.

Seeing how the medication has affected me over the years is incredible. However, it was a gradual process. My emotional and mental maturation was slowed by 40 years of reduced activity in my prefrontal cortex (where executive functions are located) because I couldn’t process this information until I started taking medication. Although some may be offensive to that statement, I am finally catching up. Although I still have impatience, I’m better at controlling it. My adrenaline addiction has diminished, but it could be due to my age. I’m better at entertaining opposing ideas than I was before. All of the above things may be a result of maturation. (Having lived long enough to grow up). The improvement in my spelling has been one of the most remarkable changes.

Download this free resource: How do we know if the medication works?

Spelling was the bane in my life. I had multiple learning disabilities, but none were discovered until my early forties. In high school, I felt like I failed and was constantly challenged academically. I even had suicidal ideas. The feeling of failure I felt in several classes was encapsulated in the phrase “I can’t spelling.” I interpreted this as “I am stupid, an idiot, a failure, and there is no chance for me.”

I still remember that breakthrough moment. When I was 16, I realized there are more important things in life than spelling. I’m grateful to God for bringing this thought to my mind through the fog of feeling like I failed. It’s hard to believe that God could have brought it into my mind because I was miserable and lonely then. After that revelation, I let go of many of the academic expectations I had set for myself. Three years later, at age 19, I wrote my first novel. The book sold 20,000 copies around the world. It’s not bad for an “idiot”. I am grateful to God for his intervention.

I don’t know if the medication has made me better at spelling. It could have played a role, but it’s more likely that I began to pay more attention to how words were spelt. As I began to pay more attention to the words I heard, I became better at decoding and encoding them using the paradigms I developed to spell. My ability to spell has improved over the years. Math? That’s another story.

As you may or may not know, I wrote one of the first books on ADHD and relationships, called ADD & Romance (#CommissionsEarned). This book was a collection of stories I’d heard from clients I had worked with in a clinical setting, as well as my own experiences living with ADHD and the difficulties associated with relationships. Over the years, I’ve gotten better with relationships. The improvement I have seen is not directly related to the medication.

[Ritalin Redux]

Even if we can’t process them, our brains can store an entire lifetime of experience. Once the brain starts working like it should, it will take time to process and learn from those experiences. When asked for the time it took him to create his latest painting, the accomplished artist replied, “All my lifetime.” It took me my entire life to mature (catch up) after starting medication for ADHD.

The first time this happened to me was when I interned at a private psychiatric hospital. This happened shortly after I began treatment for ADHD, and I was working as an intern in a private mental hospital. After a group session with patients about relationships, I walked back to my office and mused on their comments. Then, I began to reflect upon my own life. I had an “aha!” moment regarding my relationships. For the first time, I recognized something my therapist worked on with me in therapy seven years ago! Life experiences and therapy experiences were stored in my mind but were not processed until then. The only way I could process the information was when I took medication. It took me seven years to be able therapeutically to process this information because I had untreated ADHD. The good news is that, even after considering inflation, I received therapeutic benefits in 1994 using 1987 dollars.

You may be new to the ADHD world or have been there for some time. It might be helpful for older adults with ADHD to read about and discuss their experiences to find or give validation for themselves and others. We can all be ourselves here and learn from one another’s experiences. I appreciate you allowing me to share some of my personal experiences with you.

I look forward to reading about your experiences.