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Shedding Light on the Risks
& Benefits of Medications
Shedding Light on the Risks
& Benefits of Medications
Have We Been Thinking of ADHD All Wrong?
With diagnoses at a record high, some experts have begun to question our assumptions about the condition — and how to treat it
May 20, 2025
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ADHD diagnoses and the medications used to treat the symptoms have become a widespread part of modern life. According to 2022 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), roughly 7 million children in the U.S. between the ages of 3 and 17 — about 11.4% of that age group — have been diagnosed with ADHD at some point in their lives. And while percentages vary by state, the CDC also estimates that 38% to 81% of kids who have been diagnosed with ADHD are being treated with medication, compared to the 39% to 62% of kids who are being treated with therapy.
But is medicating with stimulants like Adderall long-term truly the best solution?
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An article published by The New York Times on April 25, 2025, takes a deeper look at the complexities behind that question. Through his reporting, author Paul Tough raises the question of whether managing ADHD requires a more nuanced approach — one that looks beyond medication alone.
Paul Tough is a journalist and the author of four books, including The Inequality Machine: How College Divides Us, and How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character, which spent more than a year on the New York Times bestseller lists. He speaks on topics such as education, parenting, equity, and student success, and his writing has appeared in the New Yorker, the Atlantic, GQ, and Esquire.
2583988DISCLAIMER: MedShadow provides information and resources related to medications, their effects, and potential side effects. However, it is important to note that we are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content on our site is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Individuals dealing with medical conditions or symptoms should seek guidance from a licensed healthcare professional, such as a physician or pharmacist, who can provide personalized medical advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
While we strive to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented on MedShadow, we cannot guarantee its completeness or suitability for any particular individual’s medical needs. Therefore, we strongly encourage users to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any health-related concerns or decisions. By accessing and using MedShadow, you acknowledge and agree that the information provided on the site is not a substitute for professional medical advice and that you should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns.
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<p>ADHD diagnoses and the medications used to treat the symptoms have become a widespread part of modern life. According to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/data/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2022 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)</a>, roughly 7 million children in the U.S. between the ages of 3 and 17 — about 11.4% of that age group — have been diagnosed with ADHD at some point in their lives. And while percentages vary by state, the CDC also estimates that 38% to 81% of kids who have been diagnosed with ADHD are being treated with medication, compared to the 39% to 62% of kids who are being treated with therapy.</p>
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<p>But is medicating with stimulants like <a href="https://medshadow.org/high-doses-of-adderall-raise-risk-of-psychosis-study-shows/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Adderall</a> long-term truly the best solution?</p>
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<p>An article published by <em>The New York Times</em> on April 25, 2025, takes a deeper look at the complexities behind that question. Through his reporting, author Paul Tough raises the question of whether managing ADHD requires a more nuanced approach — one that looks beyond medication alone.</p>
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<p><a href="https://paultough.com/about-paul/bio/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paul Tough</a> is a journalist and the author of four books, including <em>The Inequality Machine: How College Divides Us,</em> and <em>How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character</em>, which spent more than a year on the New York Times bestseller lists. He speaks on topics such as education, parenting, equity, and student success, and his writing has appeared in the New Yorker, the Atlantic, GQ, and Esquire.</p>
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