Table 2.

Descriptions and Frequencies of Key Themes and Recurring Codes.

Theme	Description of theme	Recurring codes
Access to medication (n = 20)	Focuses on the direct challenge’s individuals face in accessing ADHD medications and the logistical hurdles of obtaining prescriptions.	• Pharmacies out of stocks (n = 20) • Calling multiple pharmacies (n = 16) • Driving long distances (n = 9) • Partial prescription fulfillment (n = 6) • Being switched to alternate medication (n = 5)
Treatment barriers (n = 16)	Examines systemic barriers within the healthcare system that exacerbate access difficulties.	• Lack of medication stock information (n = 14) • Restrictive prescription refill policies (n = 10) • Stigma from healthcare workers (n = 8)
Impact on life (n = 20)	Highlights the extensive impact of the medication shortage across multiple domains of individuals lives.	• Relapse of ADHD symptoms (n = 17) • Reduced occupational performance (n = 13) • Emotional instability and dysregulation (n = 11) • Relationship problems (n = 8) • Withdrawal from social activities (n = 4)
Coping strategies (n = 12)	Highlights the methods individuals employed to help overcome the impact of their lack of ADHD medication.	• Exercise (n = 4) • Energy drinks and alcohol as self-medication (n = 4) • Seeking ADHD medications via non-medical routes (n = 4) • Meditation (n = 3)