How to manage when there’s a medication shortage.
Disclaimer
This guide is not medical advice or a substitute for professional help. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.
1. Talking to Your Doctor
Start the Conversation:
Tell your doctor about the shortage and ask if there’s anything they can do to help. For example:
“I know there’s a medication shortage right now, and I’d like to talk about my options.”
Ask About Adjusting Your Dose:
If you have medication left, ask if it’s safe to take smaller doses to make it last longer.
Explore Alternatives:
Ask about switching to a different medication, even temporarily. Some options might work for you while you wait for your usual prescription.
Advocate for Yourself:
If your doctor doesn’t seem helpful, say:
“This is really affecting my daily life. Can we look at all the options together?”
2. How to Cope Without Medication
If you can’t get medication, here are some tips to help:
Set Up a Simple Routine:
Focus on what’s most important each day.
Write things down to help you stay on track. Everything counts as a win, including eating, hydrating and resting.
Use Tools That Can Work With ADHD:
Set timers to remind you when to take breaks or switch tasks. Break big tasks into smaller steps to make them feel less overwhelming.
Work With Your Natural Energy Levels:
Notice when you feel most awake and focused. Use that time for harder tasks.
Save easier or more relaxing tasks for when you’re feeling low-energy where possible.
Try Body Doubling:
Work alongside someone else, either in person or virtually. Just having another person nearby can help you stay focused.
Body doubling doesn’t just have to be a live person, recordings, podcasts that have someone working alongside you somehow can work too.
Create a Supportive Space:
Keep your workspace tidy and free of distractions. Use the usual tools like sticky notes, whiteboards, or other visual reminders to stay on track.
Give Yourself Credit:
Celebrate even small accomplishments. It’s okay if you’re not getting everything done.
3. Get Support From Others
Find Peer Support Groups:
Join ADHD groups online or in your area to connect with people who understand what you’re going through.
Support workers and similar organisations:
Often free invaluable resources to get anything done. It’s OK to ask for more support resources, your ADHD qualifies you to deserve help when you ask.
Look for Free Resources:
Download ADHD-friendly apps or tools for organizing and planning.
Use printable resources to help you stay on track.
4. Self-Care That Works for You
Do what makes you feel good and grounded. This could be listening to music, going for a walk, or spending time in nature. Have a good stim.
Spend time with people who make you feel supported and understood.
Rest is important. Taking breaks isn’t being lazy—it’s part of taking care of yourself. Rest is one of the most productive actions you can do.
Latest update on funding and supply for Aotearoa, New Zealand
https://pharmac.govt.nz/medicine-funding-and-supply/medicine-notices/methylphenidate
Jenn has ADHD 