The ADHD Medication Shortage: What I’d Like You to Know

Right now, across the UK, thousands of people can’t access the medication they rely on to function day to day. Think about that for a moment.

It might sound dramatic, but it’s no exaggeration — this shortage is hitting people hard. Chances are, you know someone affected by it, whether you realize it or not. This isn’t a minor inconvenience; it’s a serious issue that’s been dragging on for well over a year, and it’s simply not getting the attention it deserves.

ADHD medication isn’t a "nice-to-have": for many of us, it’s essential. Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine help regulate focus, executive function, and emotions. They allow us to manage our symptoms and hold on to some sense of control. And without them? Everything — from emptying the dishwasher to meeting deadlines at work, to navigating relationships — becomes a struggle. It’s far from just being about productivity; it’s about surviving each day with our mental health intact. Individuals with untreated ADHD face a 60% higher risk of anxiety and depression [1], and they’re 60% more likely to lose their job due to struggles managing their symptoms [2].

These medications are lifelines in a world that expects or even demands we perform like neurotypical people, even though our brains are wired fundamentally differently. ADHD medications are among the most effective treatments in all of psychiatry for any neurological or psychiatric condition, with response rates as high as 70-85% — a level of effectiveness rarely seen for other neurological conditions [3] [4].

But since September 2023, the UK has faced a major shortage of these vital medications [5]. There’s not just one simple cause; a combination of supply chain disruptions and rising demand has left 85% of ADHD patients struggling to access their medication [6]. And while supply chain issues are a key part of the problem, the cause of this shortage runs deeper — it’s tied to layers of political, economic, and bureaucratic challenges that make it even harder to resolve — but that’s a conversation for another time.

My Personal Struggle

For some time now, I’ve been navigating this mess firsthand. Each month, I’ve had to call countless pharmacies (it was twelve this month!), hoping to find one that has my prescription in stock. Even when I do eventually find one, I often only get a partial prescription, meaning I’ll have to repeat the search again in a week or two. It’s a never-ending cycle of stress and uncertainty.

And then there’s the brand switching. Most months, I’m given a different brand of the same medication. On paper, it’s the same drug, but in reality, the effects vary. Adjusting to new side effects every few weeks? Exhausting.

And I’m one of the “lucky” ones! I’ve managed to get … something, but many others haven’t. People have gone to pick up their prescriptions only to find that it wasn’t in stock. At all. No sign of when it might be available again. Or, worse yet, their doctor might refuse to issue a prescription due to the shortage. For many, these medications have been a staple for years, sometimes even decades — only to have them abruptly taken away. Not only are they battling potential withdrawal symptoms, but now they’re left to deal with the full force of their untreated ADHD.

It’s not just frustrating — it’s life-altering.

The Daily Struggle

Living with ADHD, especially unmedicated, can often feel like you're constantly tripping on invisible obstacles — barriers that no one else seems to notice. Neurodivergent people frequently feel as if their struggles are personal failings — like they’re somehow inferior, inadequate, undisciplined, or hopelessly disorganized. Watching others around you function "normally" while you're barely getting through the day can be soul-crushing. And when your medication is taken away? It can feel like trying to climb a mountain made of sand.

Maybe we seem extra fidgety in meetings, miss a deadline, or seem a bit antisocial. But what people may not have realized is that the very tool we rely on has been ripped away. We’re trying twice as hard just to keep up.

On top of that? The feeling of shame. Relying on a drug to feel normal — to be able to function — can leave you feeling like there’s something inherently wrong with you. And without the medication, that sense of shame only deepens.

This isn’t just about work performance (though without medication, this can become a challenge). It’s also about mental health — the stress and anxiety that builds up when you don’t know if or when you’ll be able to access your medication again. It feels like a ticking time bomb.

A Community Lifeline

One of the unexpected bright spots in this situation has been the ADHD community itself. In a world where ADHD is often misunderstood, these communities have stepped up to become a lifeline for so many — creating a space where people share resources, offer support, and remind each other they’re not alone. The r/ADHDUK subreddit, for instance, has grown into a powerful support network with over 24,000 members! Every month, a “megathread” is posted where people share advice, talk about where they’ve found medication in stock, and offer emotional support to those who are struggling [7].

Communities like this have become a pillar of strength. It’s incredible and heartwarming to see people come together in times of hardship, but it’s also frustrating to realize that we have to rely on forums rather than official communication from authorities. Why should we be left to guess when we’ll be able to access the medical treatment we need? It highlights a much bigger issue: why are we left to crowdsource solutions when official systems should be stepping in? While it’s inspiring to see communities come together, the responsibility shouldn’t rest solely on those already facing these struggles.

What We Can All Do to Help

The unfortunate reality of drug shortages becoming a new norm is hard to accept, and while it may take time to resolve, something must be done to support ADHD patients through this challenging period. For many, medication is essential, but it’s not the only tool. There are other well-trodden paths for managing ADHD — such as training, resources, digital tools, and support networks — that, while not replacements, can offer invaluable help. Communities like Reddit show us that even in difficult times, people come together to support each other.

But while direct help like this for those with ADHD is invaluable, the indirect help and support from others can make a real difference.

Empathy is key. Acknowledgement that for some, the lack of medication can feel debilitating. If you notice a coworkers’ or employee's performance slipping, or if their usual energy is dimmed... remember, they’re likely doing their best in a really difficult situation. And this understanding should be mirrored in the actions of organisations, departments and teams.

Now is the time for companies and workplaces to step up — because who wouldn’t want to be part of the solution? Supporting your colleagues and employees isn’t just about recognition; it’s about proactive action. Flexible deadlines, adjusted work environments, and open communication can make a huge difference. If you notice someone’s performance slipping, don’t automatically assume it’s due to a lack of effort — trust me, they’re trying harder than you might realize. Instead, consider how you can better support them to help ensure their success.

A helpful step that organisations can take is in providing access to counselling services or ADHD Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Equip your employees with resources and professional support that offer practical strategies to manage their symptoms, maintain mental health, and prevent burnout.

Even when medication is available, traditional help isn’t always ADHD-friendly. That’s why it’s so important to have accessible frameworks for ADHD management — ones that are practical, easy to use, and don’t add unnecessary hurdles. It’s vital that employees know where to find resources, and for the love of all things, please make it simple to access! Let’s be honest: ADHD folk are notoriously bad at navigating paperwork-heavy or multi-step processes that require remembering specific details and deadlines, so don’t add another layer of difficulty!

Where Do We Go From Here?

As I’ve tried to explain, this isn’t just about the medication shortage — it’s about real people, real struggles, and a system that needs to step up. Companies are spending over £230 billion a year on burnout-related support, and the impact on ADHD and mental health can’t be ignored [8]. We’re not asking for special treatment – we don’t want lower targets or a free pass — just an understanding and the right tools to succeed. We need to advocate for better support systems, open communication, and a real commitment to making workplaces inclusive for everyone.

Remember our brain’s aren’t badly wired – they’re differently wired, and if we’re given the right environment to thrive, everyone wins!

Thanks for being here — it makes a difference.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). "ADHD and Mental Health."
2. Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA). (2023). "The Impact of ADHD on Job Retention and Performance."
3. UC Davis Health. (n.d.). "ADHD Medications: Success Rates and Treatment Options."
4. Frontiers in Psychiatry. (n.d.). "The Effectiveness of ADHD Medications in Treating Symptoms."
5. BMJ Best Practice. (2022). "ADHD Medication Shortages: A Global Issue."
6. ADHD UK. (2023). "Survey Results: ADHD Medication Shortages."
7. r/ADHDUK subreddit.
8. Pharmaphorum. (2024). "Burnout and Mental Health in the Workplace: The Costs of Ignoring ADHD."