Navigating ADHD Medications: A Clinical Psychologist's Insights on Mood Stabilizers and Stimulants
- Dr. Ashley Houchin
- Jul 15
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 16
As a clinical psychologist, I have seen how effective medications can reshape the lives of individuals with ADHD. These treatments can dramatically improve emotional and behavioral regulation, allowing people to navigate daily challenges with more confidence and ease. While my expertise lies in psychology rather than medicine, my clinical experience has provided me with meaningful insights into the impact of medications on quality of life.
Understanding Emotional Dysregulation
Emotional dysregulation is one of the most challenging symptoms of ADHD. Many individuals react intensely to minor events, which can hinder their social interactions and day-to-day activities. For example, one patient shared that they would feel overwhelmed by a friend canceling plans, leading to a spiral of anxiety and frustration. Many such patients have found that mood stabilizers help diminish these harsh emotional reactions, allowing them to achieve a more balanced emotional state.
Through my observations, it is clear that when patients take mood stabilizers, they often become less reactive and are better able to utilize coping strategies. One specific example is a teenager who, after starting a mood stabilizer, reported feeling more in control when faced with stressful situations at school. This improvement allowed them to engage more positively with peers and significantly enhanced their overall well-being.
The Role of Stimulants in ADHD Treatment
The symptom clusters of hyperactivity and inattention in ADHD can create major obstacles, particularly in structured settings like schools. Stimulant medications are often effective in addressing these specific symptoms. Patients often express relief when they find that stimulants help them with focus, attention, and even impulse control.
In my practice, I’ve witnessed students improve their concentration in class after starting stimulant medication. For instance, one patient, previously unable to complete a 20-minute reading assignment, was able to improve their attention span allowing homework time to feel less stressful for everyone involved. This leap, while small, led to much greater participation in class and a noticeable improvement in academic performance.
Recently, a school-aged male client reported that after starting stimulant medication he could "hear better." This was very interesting and upon further questioning of his experience, it was revealed that the stimulant medication had helped to quiet his busy mind. His mother reported that she was able to get his attention with one or two calls of his name, rather than repeating herself endlessly. Additionally, this client reported feeling more "in control" of his actions implying that his impulsivity had reduced while on the medication.
The Synergy of Medication and Therapy
While mood stabilizers and stimulants are crucial in managing ADHD symptoms, they achieve the best results alongside therapeutic interventions. Behavioral therapy can reinforce the advantages of medication by providing individuals with coping skills and strategies to better manage their symptoms.
In my experience, patients who participate in therapy often report feeling a greater sense of empowerment. For example, one client was able to establish a weekly routine and set specific goals, which led to improved organization and productivity. This combination helps individuals not only to navigate daily difficulties but also to develop skills to improve the quality of their lives.
Final Thoughts
The role of medication in managing ADHD is significant and deserves thoughtful consideration. Mood stabilizers and stimulants can have profound effects on emotional regulation and attention span. Still, the most beneficial outcomes arise from integrating medication with therapeutic support.
Click the button below to subscribe. You'll receive email updates about our latest blog posts and a quarterly newsletter with practice information. I promise we won't spam you with loads of emails. Just a friendly hello, every once in a while.