I don't think this is fair. I have ADHD. It is not an exaggeration to say that I can't function without drugs - I have trouble doing literally any task that requires switching focus or making long-term plans (including complex, multi-step tasks like "put on pants, go outside, find a place to eat, and eat some food so you don't starve".)

Specifically, I can't function without prescription amphetamines, in dosages substantially greater than Erdos was taking.

Some people have unfortunate brain chemistry/homeostasis, and are keen to adjust it.

It's a real thing.

Hard to separate from desiring the pleasure/illness, to be fair.

Spot on.

Going cold turkey to nothing for a month is not something a typical "addict" could do.