ADHD medication is one of the most effective, most studied, and most stigmatized treatments in psychiatry. Myths persist, often preventing people who would benefit from even trying it. Here's what the research says.
We're not doctors. This is research summary, not medical advice. Talk to your provider.
"It's just speed"
Stimulant medications increase dopamine in the prefrontal cortex. In a typical brain, this overstimulates. In an ADHD brain — which has baseline dopamine deficiency — it brings levels closer to typical. That's why people with ADHD often feel calmer on stimulants. The medication is adding regulatory capacity, not speed.
"It changes your personality"
At correct doses, it improves executive function without altering personality. If you feel flat or robotic, the dose is probably wrong. Report it.
"You'll become dependent"
Physical dependence at therapeutic doses is vanishingly rare. You're not dependent on your glasses. You just see better with them.
"It's a crutch"
Insulin for diabetes isn't a crutch. Treating a neurochemical deficit with neurochemistry is treatment, not weakness.
"If you can focus on some things, you don't need it"
Hyperfocus isn't evidence against ADHD. The issue isn't whether you can focus — it's whether you can control what you focus on.
"Medication alone is enough"
Medication creates conditions under which you can build skills. The skills — time management, task initiation, organization — still need building through therapy, coaching, or tools designed for ADHD.
"Natural alternatives work just as well"
Exercise, sleep, nutrition all have evidence. None match medication's effect size. A Lancet Psychiatry meta-analysis found stimulants roughly 3x more effective than behavioral interventions alone. Natural strategies complement medication. They don't replace it.
Medication is a tool. If ADHD is significantly impairing your life, it deserves a conversation with your provider. Not a commitment. Just a conversation.