The MIND is Complex?

There’s a storm brewing in the mental health world, and it’s one we can no longer ignore. An NBC News article recently highlighted research suggesting that high doses of ADHD medications might be linked to an increased risk of psychosis. Let me say that again—psychosis, a state where reality unravels at the seams, leaving the individual adrift in a world that’s both heart-breaking and terrifying.

I’ve seen drug-induced psychosis firsthand. It’s like watching someone trapped in a house of mirrors, each reflection more distorted than the last. Their reality becomes a cacophony of fear, confusion, and disconnection, and all you can do is stand on the shore, powerless, as they’re pulled further out to sea. It’s a sight that stays with you, a haunting reminder of how fragile the mind can be.

The article states, “Psychosis is a rare but well-documented potential side effect of stimulant medications, which are commonly prescribed for ADHD.” It’s crucial to understand that this isn’t a condemnation of these medications. For many, they’re a lifeline, a key that unlocks focus, calm, and functionality in a world that often feels like it’s moving at warp speed. But as with any powerful tool, there’s a responsibility to use it wisely.

Here’s where the conversation needs to shift. Medication-assisted therapy can be a game-changer, a beacon of hope for those navigating the labyrinth of mental health challenges. But it’s not a silver bullet. It must be approached with care, supervision, and a deep respect for its power. Over-medicating—treating symptoms with a heavier hand than necessary—is like trying to put out a candle with a fire hose. You might extinguish the flame, but you’ll also leave destruction in your wake.

This research is a groundbreaker, a wake-up call for all of us—patients, caregivers, and medical professionals alike. It reminds us that even the best intentions can have unintended consequences. It challenges us to strike a delicate balance, to walk the tightrope between treatment and overreach. It’s a reminder that while medication can quiet the storm within, too much of it can stir up a hurricane.

In my upcoming fifth novel, Tina (coming this summer), drug-induced psychosis plays a significant role. Writing about it was both cathartic and sobering. It’s a topic that demands attention, not just in fiction but in real life. We need to talk about it, understand it, and address it with the seriousness it deserves. Because behind every statistic is a person—a mother, a brother, a friend—fighting battles we can’t always see.

So where do we go from here? We start by having honest conversations. We advocate for thorough assessments, regular follow-ups, and open dialogue between patients and providers. We champion a holistic approach to mental health, one that includes therapy, lifestyle changes, and, when appropriate, medication. And above all, we listen—to the science, to the experts, and most importantly, to the people whose lives are most affected.

Medication isn’t the enemy. Irresponsibility is. By treating these tools with the care and respect they deserve, we can harness their potential without falling victim to their pitfalls. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about choosing sides. It’s about choosing humanity.

For more details, you can read the full article here: High doses of ADHD drugs linked to greater risk of psychosis.