ADHD: Insights on Medication Effects and Emotional Well-being - Psychiatry

Dr. Wu Menghuan reply Psychiatry

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Hello:
Q1.
Medication Consultation: I would like to ask if it is normal to feel a bit better and more motivated after taking my medication (Concerta 54mg) today, and that things seem to go more smoothly?
A1: Concerta contains Methylphenidate, which is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and can enhance focus.
It is possible to experience the feelings you mentioned; it is recommended to discuss this with your physician during a follow-up appointment.
Q2.
If I feel like I can remember the content of the books I read and the lessons from my teachers clearly after taking the medication, is that normal? (Note: If I don't take the medication, I need 10 minutes of focus to achieve this feeling.)
A2: Concerta contains Methylphenidate, which is used to treat ADHD and can enhance focus.
It is possible to experience the feelings you mentioned; it is recommended to discuss this with your physician during a follow-up appointment.
Q3.
I feel like my attention span has significantly increased; I used to get restless and leave my seat in class after 15 minutes.
Is this normal?
A3: Concerta can increase focus and is typically recommended to be taken in the morning after breakfast, with effects lasting about 10-12 hours.
It is advisable to discuss this with your physician during a follow-up appointment.
Q4.
I was diagnosed at the age of five or six, but I only started formal treatment at 14.
If my symptoms do not improve when I don't take the medication, will I need to continue using it into adulthood based on your years of medical experience?
A4: You mentioned being diagnosed at five or six; I am unsure what condition your physician diagnosed you with or if there are any comorbidities.
Generally, it is recommended for ADHD patients to begin treatment during elementary school.
Physicians consider your condition, any comorbidities, weight, side effects of medication, response to medication, and your situation at school and home when adjusting medication types, dosages, or formulations.
Treatment for ADHD often requires a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
The duration of medication use varies; some patients may need it for 2-3 years, while most may require it into their teenage years, and some symptoms may persist into adulthood.
It is advisable to discuss this with your physician during a follow-up appointment.
Q5.
My grades are decent, usually placing me within the top 100 in my school, but I am starting to worry that classmates who also use ADHD medication might surpass me.
Is this normal? (Could you offer me some reassurance?)
A5: Concerta is used to treat ADHD and can improve symptoms such as inattention and impulsivity; it is not recommended for individuals without this condition.
It is important to do your best and not to worry excessively; comparing yourself to others can negatively affect your mood.
Rankings are temporary, and what matters most is what you truly learn.
Q6.
I feel like my mind has become a bit dull, and I suspect it might be because I only sleep five to six hours.
This should not be related to the medication, right?
A6: Concerta is typically recommended to be taken in the morning after breakfast, with effects lasting about 10-12 hours.
Adolescents should aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
It is advisable to establish a regular routine, including fixed wake-up times, efficient study habits, leisure activities, exercise, and adequate sleep.
Q7.
I find it difficult to control my emotions; sometimes, when the medication wears off, I easily get angry at those around me, and I feel restless or very sad when I am quiet.
Is this normal?
A7: Emotions can be challenging to manage, and it often takes time to calm down once they arise.
It may be helpful to keep a journal to note when you feel upset, the circumstances surrounding it, and your thoughts at that moment.
Many people experience overly pessimistic thoughts or focus on negative information when feeling down.
Reflecting on and changing these irrational thoughts or appropriately redirecting your attention can help adjust your mood.
It is advisable to discuss this with your physician during a follow-up appointment.
Q8.
After taking the medication, I feel like I talk less, and I dislike being looked at by others, making me reluctant to make eye contact.
Is this normal?
A8: I am unsure if you experienced this before taking the medication or if it started afterward.
What thoughts come to mind when others look at you, and how does it make you feel? It is advisable to discuss this with your physician during a follow-up appointment.
Q9.
Can you offer me some comforting words and advice? Please, I haven't talked to anyone in a long time, and my parents hardly communicate with me.

A9: Life is a marathon, not a sprint; it is about endurance, perseverance, and resilience.
This is a personal battle, and others' opinions are not important; it is best to ignore them.
Everyone's physical and mental state and habits are different, so maintain a balanced diet, a regular routine, and create a schedule that works best for you, including study time, exercise (at least 30 minutes), leisure time, and sufficient sleep (at least 7-8 hours).
It is best to learn to ignore things and people that affect your mood.
What matters is how efficiently you learn and integrate knowledge; for example, you can study for 30 minutes and then take a break to stretch or change your mood.
You might also reward yourself after completing a task.
It is advisable to discuss this with a child and adolescent psychiatrist or ask your physician for a referral to a psychologist for further support.
Thank you.

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Reply Date: 2021/11/08