Why Stimulant Medication Helps ADHD -- and How Stigma Can Hurt

Summary

In this video, the stigma surrounding stimulant medication for ADHD is discussed during ADHD Awareness Month. The script addresses the societal disapproval and misconceptions about ADHD treatments, highlighting the importance of medication as a first-line therapy. It features Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells, a pediatrician with ADHD, who clarifies myths about stimulants, emphasizing their role in managing dopamine levels for better brain function. The video encourages viewers to educate themselves on ADHD treatment and to share personal stories to reduce stigma, promoting a more informed and compassionate approach to ADHD management.

Takeaways

• 🌟 October is recognized as ADHD Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing ADHD.
• 💊 Stimulant medication is a first-line treatment for ADHD, despite the societal stigma that often accompanies its use.
• 🏥 The stigma against stimulant medication is rooted in misconceptions and is often perpetuated by media and social narratives.
• 🧠 ADHD is a neurological condition that affects neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, which play a role in focus and impulse control.
• 👨‍⚕️ Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells, a pediatrician with ADHD, explains that medication can be a critical part of an ADHD treatment plan, enhancing brain function and skill utilization.
• 🚫 The fear of stimulants being addictive is a common myth; when used properly under medical guidance, the risk of addiction is very low.
• 🛑 Untreated ADHD can lead to higher risks of substance abuse as individuals may self-medicate to cope with symptoms.
• 🌱 Treatment of ADHD with medication, combined with behavioral interventions, can significantly improve mental and physical health outcomes.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parenting a child with ADHD requires different strategies than parenting neurotypical children, and medication can be a valuable tool in managing the condition.
• 💪 Advocating for oneself or a child's ADHD treatment needs is not a failure but an act of self-care and responsible parenting.
• 📚 Educating oneself on ADHD and its treatment options is essential in breaking down stigma and making informed decisions about care.

Q & A

Why is stimulant medication considered a first-line treatment for ADHD?

Stimulant medication is considered a first-line treatment for ADHD because it helps increase dopamine levels in the brain, which can improve focus, decrease impulsivity, and enhance the ability to utilize skills effectively.

What is stigma according to the Cambridge Dictionary?

Stigma, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, is a strong feeling of disapproval that most people in a society have about something, especially when this is unfair.

Why do people often feel shame when using stimulant medication for ADHD?

People often feel shame when using stimulant medication for ADHD due to the intense stigma against it, which is fueled by misleading messages in the media and social media that portray it negatively.

How does the stigma surrounding stimulant medication affect treatment decisions?

The stigma surrounding stimulant medication can lead people to make treatment decisions based on societal disapproval rather than what is optimal for their or their child's condition, sometimes resulting in less effective treatment methods being chosen.

What role do dopamine and norepinephrine play in ADHD?

Dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters in the brain, play a significant role in ADHD by affecting focus, impulsivity, and attention, which are common challenges faced by individuals with ADHD.

How does stimulant medication help with ADHD symptoms?

Stimulant medication helps with ADHD symptoms by increasing dopamine levels in the brain, allowing for better neuronal communication, decreased impulsivity, and improved focus and attention.

What are some misconceptions about stimulant medications being addictive or habit-forming?

A common misconception is that stimulant medications are addictive or habit-forming. However, when used properly under medical guidance, the risk of addiction and habit formation is very low.

Why are people with untreated ADHD at a higher risk of drug abuse?

People with untreated ADHD are at a higher risk of drug abuse because they might self-medicate with substances like nicotine or THC to manage their ADHD symptoms, depression, and anxiety.

What are the benefits of optimal treatment of ADHD, including medication?

Optimal treatment of ADHD, including medication, can lead to improved work and relationship performance, decreased accidents, reduced rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues, and even improved physical health.

How does parenting a child with ADHD differ from parenting a neurotypical child?

Parenting a child with ADHD differs from parenting a neurotypical child because it often requires different strategies and approaches to manage the unique challenges presented by ADHD, and there may be a need for medication or other specialized treatments.

What is the message the speaker wants to convey about seeking treatment for ADHD?

The speaker wants to convey that seeking treatment for ADHD, including the use of stimulant medication, is not a failure but a necessary step in taking care of oneself or one's child, and that there should be no shame in advocating for appropriate care.

Outlines

00:00

💊 Breaking the Stigma of Stimulant Medication for ADHD

The paragraph addresses the stigma surrounding stimulant medication for ADHD during ADHD Awareness Month. It highlights the societal disapproval and misconceptions about these medications, which are often portrayed as harmful or as a last resort. The speaker shares personal experiences of shame associated with taking medication and discusses the negative messages from media and social platforms that contribute to this stigma. The paragraph emphasizes the importance of understanding ADHD as a legitimate condition that may require medical treatment and criticizes the portrayal of ADHD as a non-issue or a moral failing.

05:03

🧠 Understanding ADHD and the Role of Medication

This paragraph delves into the science behind ADHD, explaining the role of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the condition. It clarifies that while medication does not build skills, it can help improve brain function by increasing dopamine levels, thus reducing impulsivity and inattention. The speaker dispels myths about stimulant medications being addictive, pointing out that untreated ADHD poses a higher risk for substance abuse. The paragraph also underscores the benefits of proper ADHD treatment, including improved work performance, relationships, and mental and physical health. It concludes with a call to educate oneself on ADHD treatment options and to challenge the stigma associated with medication.

10:03

🌟 Encouraging Open Dialogue on ADHD Treatment

The final paragraph of the script is a call to action for reducing the stigma around ADHD treatment. It encourages sharing personal stories and experiences using the hashtag 'I treat my ADHD because' to promote understanding and support within the community. The speaker expresses gratitude for the contributions of supporters that enable the creation of educational content and advocacy. The paragraph ends with a teaser for an upcoming live stream on parenting complex kids and a farewell to the viewers.

Keywords

💡ADHD Awareness Month

October is recognized as ADHD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising understanding and awareness about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The video script uses this as a backdrop to discuss the treatment of ADHD with a focus on stimulant medication, aiming to educate viewers about the condition and combat stigmatization.

💡Stimulant medication

Stimulant medication is a class of drugs commonly used as a first-line treatment for ADHD. It includes drugs like Adderall, which increases dopamine levels in the brain, helping to improve focus and reduce impulsivity. The script addresses the stigma associated with these medications and aims to clarify misconceptions.

💡Stigma

Stigma, as defined by the Cambridge Dictionary, refers to a strong feeling of disapproval from society, often when it is unfair. In the context of the video, stigma is associated with the use of stimulant medication for ADHD, leading to shame and negative perceptions that the video aims to challenge.

💡Dopamine and norepinephrine

Dopamine and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters in the brain that play a significant role in ADHD. The video explains that these chemicals are involved in the regulation of attention and impulse control, and that stimulant medications work by increasing their levels to alleviate ADHD symptoms.

💡Behavioral interventions

Behavioral interventions are strategies or therapies used to help individuals with ADHD manage their symptoms. The script suggests that while these interventions are important, they do not replace the need for medication in many cases, and that a combination of approaches is often most effective.

💡Addiction and habit formation

The video addresses concerns about stimulant medications being addictive or habit-forming. It clarifies that when used under medical supervision, the risk of addiction is very low, and untreated ADHD itself may lead to a higher risk of substance abuse as a form of self-medication.

💡Optimal treatment

Optimal treatment refers to the most effective combination of therapies and interventions for an individual's condition. The video emphasizes that for many with ADHD, optimal treatment includes both medication and behavioral interventions, leading to improved outcomes in various aspects of life.

💡Parenting a child with ADHD

Parenting a child with ADHD presents unique challenges that differ from parenting neurotypical children. The script touches on the difficulties parents face and the additional stress that stigma can place on their decision-making process regarding treatment options.

💡Self-medication

Self-medication is the practice of using substances, such as nicotine or THC, to manage symptoms without medical supervision. The video points out that untreated ADHD can lead individuals to self-medicate, which can be harmful and complicates the management of ADHD.

💡Mental and physical health

The video script highlights that treating ADHD not only improves mental health by reducing symptoms like depression and anxiety but also has positive effects on physical health. It underscores the importance of comprehensive treatment for the overall well-being of individuals with ADHD.

Highlights

October is ADHD Awareness Month, a good time to discuss stimulant medication for ADHD treatment.

Stimulant medication is a first-line treatment for ADHD but is often met with stigma.

People with ADHD using medication may experience shame due to societal stigma.

The stigma is defined as a strong feeling of disapproval, often unfair.

Media and social messages contribute to the stigma against stimulant medication.

Misconceptions include stimulants being equated with drugs like methamphetamine.

Stimulant medications are sometimes seen as a replacement for discipline or parenting.

Stigma can lead to downplaying or doubting the validity of ADHD as a condition.

The stigma can influence treatment decisions, with some opting for less effective methods.

Personal experiences with stigma include pharmacists advising against medication.

Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells, a pediatrician with ADHD, discusses the role of medication in ADHD treatment.

Medication helps increase dopamine levels, improving brain function and reducing ADHD symptoms.

Stimulant medications, when used properly, have a low risk of addiction.

Untreated ADHD is associated with a higher risk of drug abuse and mental health issues.

Optimal ADHD treatment includes medication and leads to improved performance and mental health.

Parenting a child with ADHD is different and can be challenging without proper support.

The video encourages education on ADHD treatment and sharing personal stories to reduce stigma.

The hashtag #I_treat_my_ADHD_because is introduced to share personal ADHD treatment stories.

Transcripts

Hello Brains, October is ADHD Awareness Month  and I thought it would be a good time to talk  

about why stimulant medication  is typically used to treat ADHD

and hopefully break down some  of the stigma surrounding it

Stimulant medication is considered a first-line  treatment for ADHD but when people use this  

medication to treat their ADHD they often feel  an incredible amount of shame.  

It was weird for me to even take my medication on camera and  it was probably uncomfortable to watch it. Why?  

Stigma. According to Cambridge Dictionary "Stigma is  a strong feeling of disapproval that most people... 

...in a society have about something especially  when this is unfair."   

And there is an intense stigma against stimulant medication.

In the media and on social media we're bombarded  with misleading and shame inducing messages.

When we think about methamphetamine, think  about Adderall,

Adderall as the detention deficit  disorder drug that a lot of college students take. 

Same drug, nobody's talking about-   

- It's not the same drug- - It's the exact same drug.

To, "it's the same thing as cocaine."

They can't eat, they can't sleep, and they're not getting better. 

Isn't that in itself a symptom of taking  all this essentially legal speed? 

To, it's a replacement for discipline or parenting.

- Buckley could benefit from a little discipline. - Oh  

Don't worry I'm not suggesting actual parenting.  I'm talking about medication.  

To it turns people into zombies.

To it's a last resort, something  to try only after trying everything else.  

We get these messages from documentaries, social media  posts, TV shows, movies, family and friends.

Some of these messages are intentionally sensationalized  to get more views or shares or create moral panic.  

There are cardiovascular risks, psychotic episode,  you wouldn't wish that on your worst enemy.  

What's the cost of that? And is that a cost  we're willing to live with?  

Some are meant to sell us alternatives.

Today I'm going to  share with you in this video the top foods,  

supplements, natural treatments, and essential oils  in the treatment of ADHD.  

Some are just meant to make us laugh.

Any of you guys currently on Adderall  and uh you know want to make fifty dollars  

And some are genuinely meant to be helpful.

I once had a total stranger walk up to me in a store and tell me how he managed his ADHD without medication and I could too.  

As if that's how you win at ADHD by not having to  treat it.  

We internalized these messages, and the stigma isn't just about the medication.

It's also a downplaying or doubting of the condition itself.

ADD and ADHD are not real things.  

What is ADHD? it's just it's impossible.

Are they anemic? And do they just need iron that would do it. Are they just bored? Are they over stimulated with their electronic toys?

ADHD is often portrayed as  a moral or parental failing.   

Not that big a deal, or as if it doesn't even exist. In other words not deserving of treatment.   

Given the sheer amount of research that exists on ADHD at this point.  I'd say that's pretty unfair!   

It makes sense to be cautious about treatment decisions for any condition.

The problem is that the stigma against stimulant medications is so strong that people end up making treatment decisions based on stigma.  

Rather than what the optimal treatment for them  or their child would actually be.   

There's even been research done on this, parents will often try  less effective ways of helping their children with ADHD...

...because of the stigma against stimulants. I asked ADHD twitter to share their own experience with stigma,

their own pharmacist said taking their  medication was bad for them.   

They've had to hide them. One person's dad used to make them hide the  pills around other people.  

One person's mom avoided getting her diagnosed at all because they didn't  want her to become an addict.

Even though my mom did choose to treat my ADHD, my dad was opposed to  it and it created a lot of tension between them. 

I had a boyfriend once who warned me about  the side effects of stimulant medication,  

even though mine were really mild, he made me feel  like my ADHD wasn't that big a deal,   

so I went off of my meds. And over the course of the next two  years I discovered my ADHD very much is a big deal.

and there are more serious side effects to  not treating my ADHD but everyone is different.   

My personal experience is my personal experience, and  I'm not a doctor. But Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells is.

She also has ADHD herself and is a pediatrician  who treats ADHD.

So I asked her to come share what she shares with her patients about stimulant medication.   

Hi everyone, as Jessica said I'm Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells.  

I'm a board certified pediatrician here with girls to women and young men's health and wellness in fort worth Texas.

So let's address some of the misconceptions, fears, and shame surrounding medication.

I'm well aware of these not only as a physician, 

but because to be honest I had some of these myself when I was first  diagnosed.

I refused medication initially.  

A lot of us feel like we should be able to function without  medication, learn all of our skills and use all of our skills

and do the behavioral interventions. And all of that first before we turn to medication. 

And in some circumstances that may be the right  choice but that's not always the right choice.  

And whether it's for ourselves or whether it's for  our children, medication can be a critical piece of the treatment plan. 

So why do we use medication  as part of the treatment plan for ADHD?   

Well we're still learning about ADHD, but from what we know  so far we know that dopamine and norepinephrine   

two of the neurotransmitters in our brain play a pretty  large role in the challenges we face with ADHD.  

And while pills don't build skills, and we  still need to be building those skills,  

skills don't change the dopamine in our brain and  the way our brains work,  

the difficulty we have with impulsivity, inattention, focus make it not  only a little more difficult to learn those skills  

but it makes it a lot more difficult to access  those skills when we need to.  

So the medication helps increase the dopamine levels in our  brain so that our brain can function better,  

our neurons can communicate with each other better,   we can decrease the impulsivity, decrease the inattention, focus,

stay on task better, so that  we can better access and utilize those skills. 

They're our gifts to the way our brains work.  We see details that other people don't see.  

We see solutions to problems other people  don't see. it shouldn't take those gifts away. 

It shouldn't change who you are, it shouldn't  change your personality, it should help you to have control 

over those gifts so that you can utilize  when you use them and when you don't.

One of the  other misconceptions I hear a lot is that these  medicines are addictive or habit-forming.  

To be clear, "when stimulant medications are used properly  and under the guidance of a medical professional  

the risk of addiction and habit formation is very low." 

On the other hand, people with ADHD do have a higher risk of addiction.

The research shows us that people with ADHD, whose ADHD goes untreated, or sub-optimally treated are at significantly higher risk  

for drug use, drug abuse, and drug dependence.

What I see in my own clinic is young people coming  to me vaping nicotine, smoking weed or vaping THC in particular.

To self-medicate for their ADHD but  also to self-medicate for the depression  

and the anxiety that is developed from their ADHD either  going untreated or not being ideally treated.  

And I've got to tell you, trying to help them trying  to get them off of those substances,  

so that we can best manage their ADHD is really hard. We now  have reams of data and research that show us  

that optimal treatment of ADHD includes medication.  And medication along with behavioral interventions,  

coaching, accommodations in school, leads to:  improved performance at work, relationships,  

decreased accidents, decreased rates of depression,  anxiety, and other mental health issues   

and now we even have research that shows that optimal  treatment of our ADHD improves our physical health,  

not just our mental health. Treating our ADHD  helps us to then take better care of ourselves  

keep up with our doctor's appointments, take our  medicines, do those things that keep us healthy.  

Of course we want what's best for our kids  there's the fear of if i do give them medicine  

is it gonna harm them in the long run? Is it the  right choice for them? Am I making that choice  

for them or am I making that choice for me? Is it  because I can't handle it?  

Or is it because I'm not a good enough parent? If I could just parent them  better, because let's be honest that's what we hear.  

The other thing that I think a lot of people  don't understand about ADHD is parenting a  

child with ADHD is different than parenting a  neurotypical child. 

But there's this sense that we shouldn't need medication or that medication is  failure there are always going to be those voices  

that judge whatever decisions we make those voices  aren't going away, but it is not failure! 

Asking for what you need, asking for what your child needs,   advocating for yourself or your child or your client or your patient is never failure.

It's taking care of ourselves and it's taking care of them. 

And you should never be ashamed for that. 

I personally believe that people should do what makes sense for them and their situation.

A lot of people in the ADHD community don't use medication  

some take non-stimulant medication but before  making treatment decisions for yourself or others  

or adding to the stigma. I encourage you to educate  yourself on what ADHD treatment actually entails  

I'm grateful that my mom made the decision to  put me on stimulant medication.  

It made a huge difference and I'm grateful to Dr. Carolyn Lentzsch-Parcells for coming to talk with everyone.  

I lost my mom recently and I'm making this video in the  hope that it will reduce some of the stigma  

that she had to face. If you want to help break the  stigma of not treating ADHD however you treat it,  

please share this video or your own story  on social media using the hashtag I treat my ADHD because

because I think it's important that we  hear those stories too.

If you want to learn more about parenting complex kids next week we'll be  doing a live stream with an expert who literally wrote the book on it. 

Thank you to my brain  advocates and all my patreon brains for helping this channel grow

we've been able to bring on  more people because of you and will be able to  

produce more content and do more advocacy work  because of you.  

If you found this video helpful like subscribe click all the things and  I will see you next video bye brains

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