How To Talk To Your Doctor About ADHD Medication And Support
If you suspect that you or your child are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, you may be wondering: Who diagnoses ADHD? And will I need medication to manage my or my child’s symptoms? While medication may be a part of an ADHD treatment plan for some children and adults, it is possible for other people with ADHD to manage their symptoms with behavioral therapy and lifestyle alterations alongside—or, sometimes, instead of—medication.
Your healthcare provider and care team may suggest medication if ADHD is affecting your ability to function. However, it is not the only option.
What are the most common symptoms of ADHD in children and adults?
Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD in children and adults include:
Being easily distracted or having a short attention span
Difficulty with time management, such as failing to meet deadlines, double-booking appointments, or frequent lateness
Being known as someone who often talks excessively
Experiencing frequent mood swings
Difficulty starting or following through on tasks, even ones they enjoy
Finding it difficult to enjoy quiet leisure activities and relax
If you believe that you or your child are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, consider making an appointment with your primary care provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can be beneficial when managing ADHD symptoms long-term. Some people wait before addressing concerns with their doctor, which may delay diagnosis and valuable treatment.
Bring any questions or concerns to your appointment to ensure a productive conversation with your or your child’s doctor about ADHD.
What medication options are available for ADHD treatment?
During your diagnosis and treatment, your doctor may suggest medication for your ADHD symptoms. There are two groups (or classes) of ADHD medications: Stimulants and nonstimulants.
Stimulants increase levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals that help brain cells communicate with each other) to reduce symptoms like distractibility, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Stimulants may be prescribed first because they are proven effective in as many as 70% of children and adults with ADHD.
If stimulant medication doesn’t effectively manage ADHD symptoms, or if you’re not eligible to take stimulant medications, your ADHD care team may suggest a nonstimulant medication or another form of symptom management support, like therapy. Nonstimulants target a different set of neurotransmitters to reduce symptoms like emotional dysregulation and social aggression.
ADHD medication for children can take different forms, such as pills or patches, and a doctor may adjust it over time to ensure the best adherence. Exploring all options with your doctor can help you choose the treatment plan that is most appropriate for your child.
Finding the right ADHD medication may involve a trial-and-error process. Some people with ADHD try a few medications and dosages before finding the right one for their specific symptoms. Each person is different, and some people may also benefit from therapy in combination with medication.
The BetterHelp platform is not intended for any information regarding which drugs, medication, or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. You should not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.
How to talk to your doctor about ADHD medication
Before you start taking any medication for child or adult ADHD, familiarizing yourself with the instructions for usage provided by your doctor and pharmacy can be helpful. Below are a few questions to ask your doctor about how to take your prescription medication:
Do I take it every day?
How many times a day?
What time of day?
Do I need to take it with or without food?
Is there anything I can't eat or drink while I'm on it?
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Other questions to ask your doctor may include the following.
Why have you chosen this medication for treatment?
With various ADHD medications available, your doctor may have made their recommendation based on your or your child’s particular needs, habits, preexisting conditions, etc. You may ask your doctor to explain why they chose the medication they did to ensure the medication you’re prescribed targets your symptoms and wasn’t only chosen because it is the most frequently prescribed. However, frequently prescribed medications may be prescribed more often because they are effective for more extensive groups of people.
How does this ADHD medication work in addressing the symptoms?
Some ADHD medications work differently. Understanding how your medication works can help you make an informed decision when working with your doctor to choose which one you take or whether you want to take medication at all.
How is the medication titrated?
Some medications are recommended to be titrated slowly. Titration means increasing or decreasing the dosage in small increments at a time until the goal dose is reached. With some medications, you may begin taking them at the goal dose. With others, you may start with a low dose and gradually increase. If you wish to stop taking the medication, you may be recommended by your doctor to decrease the dosage slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor before stopping medication or going up in your dosage, as doing so on your own may have risks.
What is the time frame until the medication shows effects?
Some people want to know the average amount of time it takes for a medication to work. Certain medications can take longer than others, so an honest discussion about the time frame can increase understanding.
Another time factor you may discuss is how long you might be on the medication overall. Will it become a part of your routine for the long term? Or is it a short-term medication?
What are the side effects of this medication?
Side effects may be minor or serious. Ask your doctor about common side effects so you know what to expect, and more severe side effects so you know when to seek help. If you know a certain side effect is common, you may be less confused or stressed if it manifests. Below are some of the most common ADHD medication side effects that can happen:
Insomnia
Headaches
Dizziness
Gastrointestinal issues
Mood swings
Decreased appetite
Irritability
Changes in behavior
Feeling restless or jittery
Depression
Racing heartbeat
Tics
Certain ADHD medications may worsen ADHD symptoms for some. Work closely with your care team and let them know how you’re feeling on your medication and whether you notice a change in your symptoms. Side effects can differ for each individual, and the side effects that are tolerable for one person might be intolerable for another.
What happens if I stop taking ADHD medication?
Medications for ADHD and other conditions can cause withdrawal-type symptoms if you stop taking them suddenly. Ask your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of a medication before you decide to begin or stop taking it.
What can I do to help the medication work better?
Certain lifestyle changes may help someone effectively manage ADHD symptoms and may be a positive addition to one’s ADHD treatment plan. The following lifestyle choices may impact how well ADHD medications work:
Getting enough sleep
Eating healthy foods
Drinking enough water
Exercising regularly
Getting fresh air every day
Maintaining a positive attitude
How will the ADHD medication be monitored?
Your or your child's doctor may ask to see you regularly while taking the medication. You might also be referred for blood tests or other tests to ensure that the medication isn't affecting your overall health. Discuss these and any other ways of monitoring your health while you're on medication.
Do not take ADHD medication in lower or higher doses than what has been prescribed to you by your doctor. Never stop taking your medication without your doctor’s agreement, as it may be risky or harmful.
Is medication the only option?
Medication for children and adults may not be the only support option. Talk therapy and behavior therapy may also provide tools and coping mechanisms for managing symptoms of ADHD. If your child has ADHD, their teacher, guidance counselor, or school support team may also be able to offer accommodation and guidance. You or your child may benefit from learning self-calming exercises, yoga, mindfulness meditation, or deep breathing techniques. Medication and other treatment options used simultaneously may be more effective than medication on its own.
Considering a complete treatment plan for ADHD diagnosis
ADHD medication may be only part of the treatment plan. Talking to your doctor about medication can be a step, but you can also ask how it fits into the overall treatment plan. Some people with ADHD also experience other conditions, such as learning disabilities or mood disorders like anxiety or depression. You or your child may benefit from a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses co-occurring disorders as well. If your child is being treated, there may be designated assistance for them at school.
The benefits of therapy for ADHD symptoms
Your doctor might also suggest that you or your child begin therapy as a part of the treatment plan. As a person with ADHD, you might find new practical concerns every day, and therapy can give you strategies to deal with practical dilemmas such as:
Getting organized
More effectively managing your time
Working with your child's teachers or your boss
Improving your sleep habits
Managing finances
Building positivity
One way therapy may help individuals is by guiding them in building a positive mindset and creating a problem-solving approach to ADHD symptom management. Medications may not remove symptoms, but they may offer help in navigating daily life. Positive coping strategies to handle the challenges that often come with ADHD can be a benefit on top of medication and help you move forward with confidence.
Increasing motivation
Another benefit of therapy for ADHD is that it may teach you to challenge negative beliefs about your abilities and personal characteristics. When you reinforce the positive within you, you may be able to build the motivation to increase your skills and personal growth.
Dealing with related mental health concerns
People with ADHD are often diagnosed with related mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. These conditions may be caused by the stress of living with challenging symptoms or availability barriers, or they may come as side effects of ADHD medications. Either way, dealing with these challenges via treatment may help you make positive changes in your life.
Therapy for ADHD
If your ADHD is causing you to doubt yourself, presenting practical challenges in life that you struggle to solve on your own, or giving rise to anxiety or depression, therapy may be a useful tool. You can begin therapy through your health insurance plan, at a clinic, or with a licensed therapist through an online platform.
Evaluation of online therapy
Online therapy can have several perks. This treatment format is often more available for participants, since there’s no requirement to travel for an appointment. In addition, it may be more affordable, allowing clients to get therapy more often.
With a therapist, you can create a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically to you and your symptoms—and continue down the path toward improved mental health.
Takeaway
Living a quality life with ADHD is very possible. Discussing medications with your doctor can help clarify concerns and inform you about your options. At your first appointment, take notes and be ready to ask questions to find out more about your options. With help, you can thrive at school, work, and other arenas.
Frequently asked questions
Read more below for commonly asked about this topic.
How do I explain my ADHD symptoms to my doctor?
To explain your attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms to your doctor, provide an honest picture of how adult or child ADHD may have impacted your daily life. Describe how your symptoms manifest at home, work, and other environments. Be honest about your symptoms to help your provider give you the best care, and do not omit symptoms that may make your condition seem more or less severe.
If you have trouble concentrating, trouble waiting, or often make mistakes, let your medical provider know when those symptoms occur and how they have impacted you. They may also refer you to a professional with experience treating ADHD for therapy alongside or instead of medication. You might also be recommended psychoanalysis testing for an official diagnosis.
What do I do if I think I have ADHD? How can I get a diagnosis?
If you think you have ADHD, reach out to a medical or mental health professional for evaluation. Some people may begin their ADHD treatment journey by scheduling an appointment with their primary care provider. If your primary care doctor does not evaluate for ADHD, they can often provide a referral. Some physicians may be comfortable prescribing medication and helping you manage symptoms once the diagnosis has been made by a professional qualified to evaluate ADHD.
You can also contact a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing ADHD. This individual may be a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist with specialized training in ADHD assessment. Of those, only a psychiatrist can prescribe medication, but psychologists and therapists regularly work alongside a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner who can prescribe appropriate medication.
What do you say in an ADHD consultation or evaluation?
During an ADHD consultation, report your symptoms honestly and openly. Doctors and therapists are trained to be non-judgmental and non-biased, and it is important to provide an accurate picture of how your symptoms impact you. Treatment plans are often based on the areas most impacted by your presenting condition, so misinformation can lead to suboptimal treatments. In addition, your provider may want to differentiate ADHD from other conditions; treatment options for ADHD may not be effective if you are experiencing a different condition instead.
What is the best ADHD coping mechanism?
Various coping mechanisms may allow individuals to manage ADHD symptoms, and every person has a particular set of coping skills that work best for them. However, there is evidence that some coping skills are significantly more effective than others for people with ADHD. While it can be difficult to say which is most effective, regular physical activity is an evidence-based option.
Regular exercise is associated with short-term benefits, which appear directly after working out, and long-term benefits, which occur once physical activity is sustained across weeks. Physical activity is shown to boost concentration, reduce hyperactivity, and increase executive function skills. These activities can also be effective in reducing the severity of comorbid conditions like mood disorders or anxiety.
Do I have untreated ADHD?
To know if you have untreated ADHD, meet with a professional qualified to diagnose the condition. Even if you believe the symptoms describe you exactly, other medical and mental health conditions can cause similar symptoms. A clinician experienced in diagnosing ADHD can help you be certain of your diagnosis and help you find the proper treatment. Describe your symptoms using real-life examples and be honest about how they have impacted your life.
Do I have ADHD or anxiety?
The only way to find out if you have ADHD or anxiety is to seek a diagnosis from a qualified mental health or medical professional. ADHD and anxiety can have a similar impact on a person’s life. For example, a student with ADHD may struggle to pay attention to a test and complete it within the allotted timeframe, lowering their grade. Similarly, a student with anxiety may be distracted by anxious feelings and thoughts of failure, which distracts them from the test, lowering their grade in a similar way to the ADHD student.
ADHD and anxiety disorders can also occur at the same time, and those with ADHD are at a higher risk for anxiety. One study suggests that around 25% of those diagnosed with ADHD also meet the diagnostic criteria for an anxiety disorder. It is possible you may have noticed symptoms of one condition but not the other or that another condition is causing your concern. Seek a professional evaluation to learn more.
How would you describe what ADHD feels like?
Some people may describe the common symptoms of ADHD based on what domain the condition affects the most. Teens and college students often report struggling to remain still during class, difficulty retaining information, and behavioral concerns from instructors. Some people report awkward social encounters or difficulty giving information. Others struggle with impulsivity and making unwise decisions, including overindulging in substance use. The ADHD experience is unique, and no two people experience it the exact same way.
How do you tell someone you have ADHD?
You can tell someone you have ADHD in any way you are comfortable. However, you might consider telling others about your condition only if the situation seems appropriate and you trust them. For example, you might be informing HR to request accommodations at work.
You may also tell people in your support network if you believe they will be receptive and encouraging. ADHD is associated with a significant amount of stigma, and not everyone may treat you the same after you tell your diagnosis. If you don’t want to tell others about your diagnosis, consider reaching out to local or online ADHD support groups for support and understanding.
How do I tell my doctor I have anxiety?
Tell your doctor you have anxiety by speaking honestly and openly about the symptoms that are bothering you. Describe how frequently you experience worry, its intensity, and what you worry about. Your doctor may ask how long symptoms have been present, whether you have experienced these symptoms before, and how you managed symptoms in the past.
Your medical provider may ask for additional information or refer you to a professional for assessment. If they believe anxiolytic medication would be helpful, they may prescribe it when you describe your worries after weighing the pros and cons of potential misuse and side effects. Psychotherapy is often considered the most effective treatment for anxiety, and a provider may also refer you to a psychologist or therapist for treatment.
How do I tell if I have ADHD as a woman?
Women have historically been underrepresented in ADHD diagnosis, treatment, and research. The core features of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are present in women with the condition, but they often present somewhat differently than in men. Contemporary research seeks to address this disparity by focusing studies on women directly and by developing new diagnostic guidelines that could potentially be used to lower the rate of ADHD misdiagnosis.
For men and women alike, the only way to be reasonably sure they have ADHD is to receive a diagnosis from a qualified professional. For women, it may be helpful to seek out a practitioner who understands the latest research regarding how ADHD presents. You may ask a professional about their understanding of how ADHD presents in women, the notable differences between women and men, and how the assessment process might differ.
Additional questions
What are the best strategies on how to talk to your doctor about ADHD concerns and get the right support?
When discussing ADHD concerns with your doctor, it’s essential to approach the conversation with preparation and openness to ensure you get the right support.
How to talk to your doctor about ADHD
Here are some strategies to help you communicate effectively:
Be honest and direct: Clearly describe your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. Don’t downplay or exaggerate—just be truthful about what you’re experiencing.
Prepare a list of experiences: Write down specific examples of when and how your symptoms occur. This could include challenges at work, school, or in social situations. Having this list will help you communicate more effectively.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions: If you’re unsure about something, ask for clarification. It’s important to fully understand the evaluation process, potential diagnoses, and treatment options.
Discuss all concerns: Share any worries you have about the evaluation process or possible treatments, including concerns about medication or therapy.
Be open about your goals: Let your doctor know what you hope to achieve with treatment, whether it’s improving focus, reducing anxiety, or something else.
Bring up past experiences: If you’ve had any previous evaluations or treatments, share this information. It can provide valuable context for your doctor.
Take notes during the appointment: Write down key points during your discussion, including any next steps or recommendations, so you don’t forget anything important.
Follow up if needed: If you think of more questions after the appointment or if new symptoms arise, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further discussion.
What questions should I ask my doctor about ADHD medication to ensure clear communication?
Ask about the benefits and side effects of the medication, how long it takes to work, and what to expect. Also, make sure you understand the dosage and any follow-up needed.
What should I know about ADHD medication, including diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment?
ADHD medication can help manage symptoms, but it’s just one part of treatment. Make sure you have a proper diagnosis, understand how the medication works, and discuss all your treatment options with your doctor.
How can I effectively communicate my concerns during an ADHD evaluation to ensure an accurate diagnosis?
Clearly explain your symptoms and how they affect your life. Be honest about your concerns, ask questions, and make sure you understand each step of the evaluation process. Good communication helps your doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.
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