ADHD Medication Tracking Part 2: Reflection-Based Tracker

Not a fan of daily tracking? You’re not alone.

Often one of the reasons many ADHDers consider trying medication is because they’re having trouble remembering things or are struggling to follow through on tasks and intentions. So it makes total sense that the idea of filling out a table every day might feel like just another thing that won’t get done.

That being said, taking some time to reflect on your experience can be especially useful when you’re starting a new medication, adjusting your dose, or just trying to learn more about how a medication is working for you.

Here are a couple of ways you can use the reflection questions in this handout as part of your medication tracking:

OPTION 1: If you like to have some structure but don’t want the pressure of a daily routine, this approach may be a good fit for you. Once you’ve chosen a medication and dose you want to evaluate, set a reminder to check in with these reflection questions after a week.

Since you won’t be writing notes down everyday, try not to wait more than a week before thinking about these questions. Otherwise it may be hard to remember how things actually went. Some people find it helpful to look. back on their calendar, photo album, or even their texts as a way to cue their memory about what happened during the week.

OPTION 2: If you find it hard to put words to your experience (especially in the moment with your prescriber or therapist) filling out these reflection questions can be a great way to help you prepare for an appointment. Write down a few notes in point form in advance, and don’t hesitate to bring those notes with you in your appointment.

If you give this approach a try, but find it’s still hard to recall your week, or think you might benefit from having a few more prompts to track what’s changing, check out Part 1 of this series. It includes a printable table tracker with visual cues that might work better for your brain.