Question

May someone who usually takes ADHD medication on a daily basis continue to take their medication on Yom Kippur?

Answer

This matter depends on the severity of the individual’s condition. In cases where the medication is essential to prevent severe instability, it is permitted. Thus, ADHD medication may be taken on Yom Kippur if not taking it would lead to a drastic imbalance or severe disruption in behavior causing the individual to become “off the wall.” However, when the medication is not essential for preventing significant instability and is used primarily for improving focus or general well-being, it should not be taken on Yom Kippur.

Sources: Shut Besod Siach 38; See regarding the general allowance for taking pills on Yom Kippur for one who is ill or to prevent an illness: Sdei Chemed Yom Kippur 3:8; Yeshuos Yaakov 612; Kesav Sofer 111; Pischeiy Teshuvah Y.D. 155:6; Shoel Umeishiv Mahdura Daled 1:55; Orchos Chaim 618:1; Eretz Tzevi 88; Kaf Hachaim 554:34 in name of in name of Kesonos Yosef 4, Ikarei Hadaat 29:36, Pischei Olam 554:6 regarding regular fast days; Meishiv Shalom 179; Igros Moshe 3:91; Tzitz Eliezer 10:25; Shevet Halevi 10:89; SSH”K 39:8; Nishmas Avraham 612:7; Toras Hayoledes 52:9 footnote 27; Piskeiy Teshuvos 612:2; Nitei Gavriel 37:23; 39:12-15; Encyclopedia Hilchatit Refuit Erech Yom Kippur Volume 3 p. 794; See regarding the status of a psychological illness and psychiatric disorder that it can be viewed as a matter of Pikuach Nefesh: Michaber 288:10; Shabbos 20b; Rashi Taanis 22b; Ran Taanis 8b; Shut Rashba Meyuchas Leramban 281; Admas Kodesh Y.D. 1:6;  Levushei Mordecha C.M. 39; Chavalim Benimim 4:13; Igros Moshe E.H. 1:63, 65, 67; 3:22, 65 [regarding anxiety]; Shevet Halevi 4:34; Yabia Omer O.C. 37:4, E.H. 24; Beis Avi 3:152; Yaskil Avdi E.H. 5:15; Minchas Yitzchak 1:115-5;  Chashukei Chemed Yuma p. 488 in name of Rav Elyashiv; Shabbos Shabbason p. 83 and 99; Tzitz Eliezer 4:13; Binyan Dovid 2:68-3;