Starting ADHD medication can be a big decision. For many people, it comes with hope, uncertainty, and a lot of questions, especially around what medication will actually feel like and whether it might change who you are. As a psychologist working with ADHD in Australia, I often support clients before and after they start medication, helping them make sense of the changes and integrate medication into a broader treatment plan.

This article aims to give you a clear, balanced picture of what to expect from ADHD medication, grounded in evidence, clinical experience, and real-world observations.

First, an important clarification

In Australia, primarily psychiatrists and paediatricians can prescribe ADHD medication. Medication can also be prescribed by GPs depending on the state. Psychologists do not prescribe medication, but we play an important role in assessment, education, treatment and helping people understand how medication fits into their overall ADHD management. Medication is usually most effective when combined with psychological strategies, skills training, and lifestyle support.

What does ADHD medication actually do?

Most ADHD medications used in Australia are stimulant medications (such as dexamphetamine or lisdexamfetamine), with some non-stimulant options also available. While the exact mechanisms are complex, these medications generally improve the efficiency of brain systems involved in attention, impulse control, and executive functioning.

In practical terms, many people notice:

• Improved ability to focus and sustain attention
• Less mental “noise” or distractibility
• Reduced impulsivity
• Greater ability to start and finish tasks
• Improved emotional regulation
• Greater ease in task switching and decision making

Medication doesn’t give you new skills but it can make existing skills more accessible.

---

What does it feel like to start ADHD medication?

Experiences vary, but common early effects include:

• Feeling calmer or more mentally organised
• Being able to pause before reacting
• Increased awareness of thoughts and behaviour

Some people describe it as “putting on glasses for my brain.” Others notice subtle changes rather than a dramatic shift. Importantly, medication should not feel like you’re being sedated or emotionally flattened. If it does, the dose or medication type may need review.

Side effects such as appetite changes, sleep disruption, or mild anxiety can occur, especially early on. This is why careful titration and monitoring by a psychiatristor your GP is essential.

Will ADHD medication change my personality?

This is one of the most common concerns I hear, and it’s an understandable one.

Short answer: ADHD medication should not change your personality.

Many people worry they’ll become “less creative,” “less fun,” or “not themselves.” In practice, what often changes is how much ADHD interferes with expressing who you already are. People frequently report feeling more like themselves, not less, because they’re better able to follow through on intentions, listen fully, and regulate emotions.

That said, if someone feels emotionally blunted, overly serious, or disconnected, that’s a sign something isn’t quite right. These effects are not the goal of treatment and should be discussed with the prescribing psychiatrist.

---

What medication doesn’t do

It’s important to be realistic about what medication can and can’t help with.

Medication does not:

• Teach time management or organisation skills
• Resolve long-standing habits or patterns
• Automatically improve self-esteem
• Fix relationship or work difficulties on its own

This is where psychological treatment is crucial. Therapy helps people build systems, strategies, and self-understanding that medication alone can’t provide.

This is where I created Procrastinot, to assist with all of these types of task that require behaviour change and effort in order to shift the old habits that ADHD can reinforce.

How psychologists support people on ADHD medication

From a psychologist’s perspective, medication is best viewed as a support, not a solution.

Psychologists can help you:

• Understand how medication affects your attention and emotions
• Adjust expectations around productivity and performance
• Build practical strategies while focus is improved
• Address anxiety, burnout, or self-criticism that often coexist with ADHD
• Reflect on identity changes that may come with long-awaited clarity

Many adults experience a mix of relief and grief after starting medication—relief at things feeling easier, and grief for years of unnecessary struggle. Therapy provides space to process both.

A balanced, informed approach

ADHD medication can be life-changing for some people, moderately helpful for others, and not the right fit for everyone. A thoughtful, evidence-based approach guided by a psychiatrist and supported by psychological care gives you the best chance of meaningful, sustainable improvement.

If you’re considering ADHD medication, or have recently started it and want support making sense of the changes, working with a psychologist experienced in ADHD can help you integrate treatment in a way that aligns with your values, goals, and sense of self.

At Insite Psychology, I support adults and adolescents across the Gold Coast with ADHD assessment, therapy, and psychological support alongside medical treatment. Medication is one piece of the picture, therapy and apps like Procrastinot may form another piece of that picture.