Is there a test we can do before we start Sarcosine, something to measure the variables sarcosine is supposed to help with (focus, affect, depression, etc)? Then, after 6 months (or however long Sarcosine takes to kick in), we could retake the test, which could possibly show its benefits. How long does sarcosine take to have a noticeable benefit? Will we notice an improvement sooner than that?
For me, no test was necessary. About a month after starting Sarcosine, I was suddenly able to shower daily, do my hair, clean the house, and go for walks. The difference is noticeable enough on its own.
I did the SANS (survey of assessment of negative symptoms) before and a few months into taking sarcosine and it dropped 10 or so points. PM me I can send you a link to the PDF
I have been taking sarcosine for a good year now and I am still seeing improvements on a daily basis, it started almost immediately after I took the first dose.
Can you journal your daily events?
Like ate breakfast, cleaned bathroom, etc…then go on sarcosine and do the same thing for a period of time? Then go back and look through to see if you’ve actually accomplished more than you did pre-sarcosine?
This is a good idea - but you need someone who knows you well and sees you regularly to help fill it out. Just focus on the Negative symptoms evaluation - since there is no research that shows sarcosine helps on positive symptoms. Here are some links.
This is a good idea also - track the things that you do on a daily basis - track it for a week or two before you go on the sarcosine, and then again after you start.
You could create your own tracking paper document to do this - and then simply count things up. It might include things like:
Got up out of bed before X am (e.g. 10am) in the morning
Showered or bathed
Brushed teeth
Called Friends
Texted Friends
etc.