ADHD & Medication: What It’s Really Like to Live Medicated vs Unmedicated
If you live with ADHD, chances are you’ve wrestled with the question:
“Should I take medication?”
Or perhaps… “Do I still need it?”
It’s one of the most common (and emotionally loaded) conversations I have with my clients - and for good reason. ADHD medication can be life-changing for some, and deeply frustrating (or even unhelpful) for others. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Let’s explore what it’s really like to live medicated vs. unmedicated with ADHD, and how to find what works best for you.
Understanding ADHD and Medication
ADHD - or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, affects how your brain manages attention, motivation, and executive function. It’s not about being lazy or undisciplined, it’s about the way your brain processes information, priorities and rewards.
Medication is one of the most common treatments recommended for ADHD in both children and adults. It can support focus, reduce impulsivity, and help regulate emotions - but it’s only one part of the bigger picture.
The Two Main Types of ADHD Medication
There are two primary categories:
Stimulant medications – such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) or amphetamines (Dexamphetamine, Vyvanse).
These work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine - chemicals that help with motivation and focus.
Non-stimulant medications – such as atomoxetine (Strattera) or guanfacine (Intuniv).
These can be helpful for people who don’t respond well to stimulants or experience side effects.
Both types can be incredibly effective — but they’re not a magic fix.
Living Medicated: What It Can Feel Like
Many of my clients describe the shift to medication as like “finally having the lights turn on.”
Potential Benefits of ADHD Medication
Improved focus – tasks that once felt impossible feel more manageable.
Less emotional reactivity – less snapping, spiralling, or overthinking.
Better impulse control – reduced impulsive spending, snacking, or blurting out things without thinking.
Increased follow-through – finally starting (and finishing!) tasks.
More balanced energy – fewer crashes or mental chaos moments.
For some, medication helps quiet the constant noise of overwhelm. It gives enough mental space to build the structure and habits that support a sustainable life.
But It’s Not Always Smooth Sailing
Medication isn’t a one-and-done solution. It often takes time (and professional support) to find the right dosage or type. Some people experience:
Appetite or sleep changes
Mood swings or emotional flatness
Rebound crashes when medication wears off
Anxiety or restlessness
It can take patience and adjustment - and that can be frustrating.
Living Unmedicated: The Other Side of the Story
Some people choose to live unmedicated - either by choice, circumstance, or side effects. That doesn’t mean they’re “doing it wrong.”
Unmedicated ADHD can look wildly different from person to person. Some find stability through therapy, structure, exercise, or lifestyle changes. Others experience constant exhaustion from masking, fighting procrastination, or managing burnout.
Supplements and Lifestyle Supports
Medication isn’t the only tool - and sometimes combining approaches can make a real difference. Certain evidence-informed supplements may support focus, cognitive function, and energy. These include:
Omega-3 fatty acids
Magnesium
B-vitamins
Iron (if deficient)
Always consult your doctor before starting supplements - they can help determine what’s safe and effective for you.
Lifestyle factors also play a huge role in ADHD management:
Sleep: Prioritising restorative sleep improves focus, mood, and energy.
Hormones: Fluctuations — like during menstrual cycles — can amplify ADHD symptoms, so tracking your cycles can help you plan and support yourself.
Nutrition & Exercise: Balanced meals and regular movement support brain function and emotional regulation.
Stress & Environment: Reducing sensory overload, organising your workspace, and managing expectations can all help your brain function better.
These strategies aren’t replacements for medication where it’s needed - but they can complement it, giving your brain extra support.
Potential Benefits of Staying Unmedicated
More consistent mood and appetite
No reliance on daily medication or side effects
A deeper understanding of natural rhythms and limits
Greater focus on behavioural and emotional coping tools
But It Can Be Hard Work
Without medication, it could take more effort to regulate energy, motivation, and focus. You might rely heavily on routines, body-doubling, timers, or accountability systems to stay on track. Again, this varies person-to-person.
Many people feel like they’re “constantly behind” - not because they’re incapable, but because they’re working against a brain that needs a different kind of structure.
The Real Answer: It’s Not Either/Or
ADHD treatment is about creating a personal strategy that works for you. You’re not “stronger” for doing it unmedicated, and you’re not “weak” for needing medication.
Many people move between the two depending on what life season they’re in. You might take medication during intense work periods and rely on behavioural tools during calmer phases.
The goal isn’t perfection - it’s sustainability.
Therapy: The Missing Piece of the Puzzle
Whether you’re medicated or unmedicated, therapy for ADHD can help you build a toolkit that supports your unique brain.
I offer neurodivergent-affirming therapy for adults across Australia through telehealth sessions. Together, we’ll explore:
Emotional regulation and burnout recovery
Executive dysfunction and motivation
Self-acceptance and unmasking
Practical systems that actually work for your brain
Because while medication can support focus and regulation, therapy can help you build self-understanding, resilience, and sustainable systems for daily life.
If You’re Exploring ADHD Treatment Options
Remember - there’s no single “right” way to manage ADHD. What works for one person may not work for another, and that’s completely okay.
Always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. They can help you find a plan that’s safe and suited to your individual needs.
If you’d like to explore the emotional and practical side of ADHD - medicated or unmedicated - therapy can help.
Apply to work with me for telehealth ADHD therapy in Victoria, Australia and beyond.
