I see a pattern where such developers are very active, especially in terms of availability, but software contribution-wise they tend to be long term detrimental. I can get into specifics but I’d like to hear other stories first.
If by abuse you include people who definitely should be taking Ritalin but aren't, then yea it's not pleasant. I can get into specifics but let's face it, it's a per-case basis. in fact I worked with another guy, taking Ritalin daily and smoking weed during lunchtime, two shots of booze seemed to actually sharpen him, I don't even think he noticed. never missed a day the entire time I've worked there.
And finally, at the same company as the latter, was a dad of two, probably about 35, doesn't touch any drugs legal or illegal, barely even drinks. always first in the office, spits code like clockwork, fastest learner I've ever seen. I guess having children forces you to prioritize your time. At my next company I'm gonna aim at recruiting 35+ parents.
Since I had an anxiety episode that prompted me to completely quit cold turkey, my coworkers have experienced both the high-on-ritalin and only-caffeinated versions of me a couple years of each. I've genuinely asked if they noticed any change and so far no one has (told me) been aware of one.
Other people in my life (like my partner) were well aware of my mood swings, sexomnia and hypnogogic hallucinations.
While I sometimes snorted Ritalin in the bathroom I was pretty low on the spectrum of abusers I would think, taking it in bursts and often less than the prescribed 40-60mg a day.
Is the productivity you see, quality? I see stationariness in higher level problem solving. Code does get written, but the fundamental goals you are all trying to solve are very hard to communicate and progress on, with this type of worker. Their busyness makes it hard to get attention focused to where it needs to be.
For me, I see busy teams that are nevertheless underperforming.
And finally, at the same company as the latter, was a dad of two, probably about 35, doesn't touch any drugs legal or illegal, barely even drinks. always first in the office, spits code like clockwork, fastest learner I've ever seen. I guess having children forces you to prioritize your time. At my next company I'm gonna aim at recruiting 35+ parents.