Usually, first impressions can be lasting. Some people’s first impressions of stimulants have been in a negative light. Unfortunately, a stigma around mental illness still exists today. Medication shame is very real. I often hear from my patients things like, “Stimulants are abused all the time” or “you’re not going to feel like yourself.” Some people think having ADHD means you’re “lazy” or “unmotivated.” That is simply not true. ADHD is a result of a chemical imbalance of neurotransmitters in your brain, which can cause cognitive and executive dysfunction. The first step is to identify your symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity. And then seek help from a professional health care provider.
The good news is that there is a solution. Stimulants are the first line treatment for ADHD. Despite what you may read or hear from people around you, clinicians are in agreement here- stimulants can help people who suffer from ADHD. And if taken as prescribed, they can be a safe and effective way to manage those symptoms. Stimulants may offer a quality of life that may not have been achieved otherwise.
If you feel you may be suffering with symptoms of ADHD, I encourage you to reach out to a health care professional at Brightland Health.