Can job loss and financial stress cause ADHD to worsen despite medication?

Based on your question, It sounds like you may be dealing with significant financial stress. What are some of the ways in which you can manage the financial stress that you have been facing? Would you be willing to make a step by step action plan as you prepare to apply for and start a new job?

I want to encourage you to take a step back and contemplate how your career goals may have changed and what you need to do to attain your employment objectives. It is true that stress of any kind, including financial stress, can exacerbate a multitude of mental health symptoms. I hope that you are doing what you can to practice self care skills. I will forward you this link which outlines a list of coping skills that you can try.

It sounds like you lost your coach, your mental health provider as well as your primary care provider all at one time. How are you managing things in your life now that this has happened? Having this occur all at one time would be over whelming for any one. I hope that you can make a plan to figure out what the next steps will be for you to begin the process of connecting with some new providers and rebuild your support system.

Lastly, I want to address your concerns about ADHD. What have your symptoms of ADHD been like in the past? How can you tell if these symptoms are getting worse? I know that you mentioned that you are taking medication to help manage your ADHD.

Would you be willing to meet with your prescribing clinician for a follow up appointment? If you are looking for psychiatric support, BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through UpLift, where a licensed psychiatric provider can evaluate whether medication management or other treatment options may be appropriate for your needs. Getting started information is available here.

Medication availability and coverage may vary by member location, clinical appropriateness, and individual pharmacy/insurance benefits. Prescribing decisions are made by the treating clinicians. We do not guarantee that any specific medication will be prescribed or covered by a member’s insurance plan.

In the meantime, I would like to share with you an art therapy directive that you can try out in order to manage your symptoms of ADHD. Using art materials of your choice, create a drawing or painting that is an expression of how you are feeling. Take minute to title your art work and then use scissors, or just your hands, to rip and cut the paper into smaller pieces. After you have done that, use tape or glue to create a secondary image of something that brings you peace of mind, happiness and joy. Title your final product. This collage activity may be worth a try in order to assist you in managing your feelings.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is online psychiatry and medication management?

Online psychiatry and medication management provide virtual access to licensed psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners who evaluate mental health symptoms, create treatment plans, and prescribe medication when clinically appropriate. Care is delivered through secure video appointments, making it easier to access support without long wait times or travel.

Does BetterHelp offer psychiatry and medication management services?

Yes. BetterHelp offers psychiatry and medication management services through its partnership with UpLift, providing virtual access to licensed psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners. These services are available to adults (18+) and may include psychiatric evaluations, treatment planning, and medication management when clinically appropriate. Psychiatry is designed to complement therapy as part of a holistic mental health care approach, with all treatment decisions made by licensed providers based on individual needs.

How does medication management work online?

Medication management typically begins with a psychiatric evaluation, where a provider reviews your symptoms, history, and goals. If appropriate, they may prescribe medication and schedule follow-up visits to monitor effectiveness, adjust dosage, and address side effects. Treatment is personalized and based on your clinical needs.

Can an online psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Yes, licensed psychiatric providers can prescribe many commonly used mental health medications online, including treatments for anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. However, prescribing decisions are based on a clinical evaluation, and not all medications are appropriate or guaranteed. Controlled substances are not prescribed.

Is online psychiatry effective for mental health treatment?

Research shows that online psychiatry can be an effective form of treatment for many conditions, including anxiety and depression. Virtual care allows for faster access to providers, ongoing monitoring, and consistent support, which can improve outcomes when combined with therapy or other treatments.

What conditions can be treated with online psychiatry?

Online psychiatry and medication management can support a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Providers create individualized treatment plans based on your symptoms, which may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

Do I need therapy if I’m using medication management?

Medication management and therapy often work best together. While psychiatry focuses on diagnosis and medication, therapy helps address thoughts, behaviors, and emotional patterns. Many people benefit from a combined approach, but your provider will recommend care based on your specific needs.