Note: I am not a doctor. I am only a professional who works regularly with ADHD people who also has ADHD herself. This is not meant as an indicator of whether or not to medicate, and is only meant to inform those who may be thinking of taking medication. Please do not take any medications without consulting with a professional. Go here to watch the video instead, or here to listen to the podcast.
The moment I realized I had ADHD, I decided that I wanted to take medication. For me, it was the best decision I’ve ever made.
Since then, I’ve spoken with many people who’ve decided to medicate, and many who haven’t. The decision is a personal one, and it’s not one I’m here to push one way or the other.
BUT. I do remember wishing I could find more information regarding what to expect, and what’s better than being the change you want to see in the world? Nothing, that’s what.
So without further ado, here are a few things you can expect if you medicate:
You will most likely take a stimulant, and it will be expensive.
The most popular medication for treating ADHD is methylphenidate. Pretty much every well-known medication is some form of methylphenidate, except for Adderall, which is actually dextroamphetamine. These are available either as an immediate release, or as an extended release. The one you take will depend on you and your provider’s preferences.
Some people take these meds recreationally, which has made many lawmakers mad, so you’ll spend a lot of time pissed off about how much you have to pay just to feel like a human being for 30 days. You will also never be able to get more than 30 days’ worth at a time.
Despite being stimulants, you will feel surprisingly normal after the first week.
The first week on the right medication will be magic. You’ll notice that your mind is quieter, that you can do things without procrastinating, and that you’re able to focus on one thing at a time. If you have energy issues, you’ll also notice you have a ton of energy. You’ll cry and feel unbelievable excitement at the new you.
And then you’ll even out, and you’ll wonder if there’s something wrong with you, because you no longer feel like an eagle flying high. In fact, sometimes you’re still tired, or scattered, or forgetful. That’s because your brain has adjusted, and because medication doesn’t work the same way all the time.
But that’s okay. You’ll still notice that you’re more focused, less forgetful, and able to move. It will be so normal to you, in fact, that you’ll be kinda confused about how this stuff is used at parties. You’ll start wondering if kids just take this and then wind up sitting around doing their taxes and making appointments they’ve been meaning to make for months.
Our brains respond to stimulants differently due to an automatic lack of dopamine, so no. Non-ADHD minds will feel a rush. We’ll just feel even, or even tired. Which brings me to the next point:
Other stimulants might make you sleepy.
That cup of coffee may start feeling like you downed a half-dose of NyQuil. This won’t last for too long, but if you find that you drink coffee and suddenly want to go take a nap, this would be why.
You might have to play with doses for a bit
The first dosage may do nothing, and then you’ll be moved up until you start to feel like you’re where you need to be.
A word to the wise: you’ve gone too high if you get heart palpitations, extreme nausea, or if you find that you can’t stop focusing.
You may crash
Some medications will leave you feeling tired at the end of the day as they wear off. This tiredness can be accompanied by irritability and anxiety. It doesn’t last long, but it’s something to look out for
If you have periods, your meds won’t work well during major hormonal changes.
That kind of says it all. The best way to guard against this is to try to avoid major projects during that time of the month, and to track what’s happening so that you can plan accordingly.
And finally…
Medication won’t solve all of your problems
Medication can be LIFE-CHANGING. But if you go into this just expecting that medication will fix everything, you’re going to be very frustrated and dissatisfied. It’s also important that you learn the tools and coping mechanisms necessary to get through those days where your medications isn’t working quite as well. If you can, ask your diagnosing professional for suggestions of licensed professionals who can help you. You’ll be glad you did.
If your first medication doesn’t work right away, by the way, don’t be disheartened; it can call for a little trial and error, but if you have a practitioner who’s on your side, you’ll get there together.
Good luck, friend.
Medicated or not, if you’re ready for some help managing things and accepting that brain of yours, feel free to check out what coaching entails, then schedule your free initial consultation.
