The Stimulant Medication Shortage: A Mental Health Provider’s Perspective

Danielle Fitch

DNP, PMHNP-BC

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For individuals with ADHD, stimulant medications like Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, and Concerta are often key tools for managing symptoms and helping with daily functioning. However, the ongoing stimulant medication shortage has created some stressors for patients, families, and providers alike.

Understanding the Impact on Patients and Families
I have somewhat of a different view on this topic as I fully believe that ADHD medication is a tool used to help, not a crutch to rely on. The main reason I start someone on medication is for them to achieve the awareness needed to understand where their ADHD symptoms impact their life most and work on those areas with the behavioral management side of ADHD management. The medications get your brain to a state where you are able to take in information, retain it and then repeat it to create better routines and learn better coping/regulation strategies.

​Yes, going without medication can be difficult, but I promise you, you will be O.K. and so will your kiddo. My hope is that parents are able to better help their children create better habits/coping/regulation while on medication so they are not on it forever or, when they are unable to get the medication, they can still cope.

Clinical Concerns and Workarounds
While we cannot immediately change the supply chain issues, we can equip patients and families with effective strategies to manage ADHD symptoms when medication is unavailable.
1. Adjust Your Routine for Maximum Structure

• ADHD symptoms can feel worse without medication, making routine more important than ever.
• Stick to a consistent wake-up and bedtime schedule to regulate energy levels.
• Use visual schedules, timers, and alarms to keep track of tasks and appointments.

2. Prioritize Essential Tasks

• When focus is limited, tackle the most critical responsibilities first.
• Break work into small, manageable chunks and set specific time limits to maintain momentum.

3. Leverage External Supports

• Use digital tools like task managers (Todoist, Trello) and reminder apps (Google Keep, Microsoft To Do) to stay on track.
• Enlist a “body double”—a friend, family member, or coworker who works alongside you to improve accountability.

4. Optimize Your Environment for Focus

• Work in a low-distraction setting, such as a quiet room or library.
• Use noise-canceling headphones or background music (classical or white noise) to enhance concentration.

5. Incorporate Physical Activity and Nutrition

• Exercise has been shown to improve executive function in individuals with ADHD. Try short movement breaks (e.g., a brisk walk, jumping jacks) to reset focus.
• Stay hydrated and eat protein-rich meals (eggs, nuts, lean meats) to support brain function and sustained energy.

My ultimate goal for patients is to be functional without medication but, to get there you have to be doing the work too. Whether you are the adult taking medication or the parent of the child taking medication you have to know how to help yourself or your child cope in times of stress. It takes practice, it takes time but you are capable of doing it! Do the practice while you have the medication so when there are times of none, you have the tools to cope and function.