Ask Ursula: I’m 99.9% sure a co-worker stole my Adderall. Should I file a police report?

I’m Ursula Reutin, one of the co-hosts of “The Gee and Ursula Show” on KIRO Newsradio.

Welcome to today’s edition of Ask Ursula, my advice column on MyNorthwest.

Dear Ursula.

Two days ago, I noticed I only had one Adderall pill left in the little pillbox that I sometimes keep on my desk at work. When I went home to refill it, I discovered I didn’t have any pills left. I was completely out 15 days before my prescription is due for a refill. It dawned on me that someone must have taken the pills out of the box on my desk at work!

When I asked my doctor for an early refill, he told me that because it’s a controlled substance, they need a police report. So now I can either file a police report — and deal with that whole fiasco — or go without my medication … which would be brutal.

While I don’t have proof that they were stolen, I am 99.9% sure that’s the case because I know I didn’t double up on my daily dose. That would be an awful experience. We do have cameras at work, but if someone took them, I also worry about the consequences for that person.

What should I do?

Signed,

Add a Loss without my Adderall

Here’s my answer:

Dear Add A Loss,

I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. It’s a serious bummer to think someone you work with COULD be stealing medication that’s vital to your well-being.

As you know, Adderall is a controlled substance with a high potential for abuse and addiction. Stealing someone’s prescription medication is a crime. BUT it’s also a serious accusation to make without proof.

So my first question for you … is there another plausible explanation for those 15 missing pills? Did you put them in another container? Is it possible the pharmacy shorted you?

If you’re convinced someone took them, I’d report your suspicions to management. You mentioned there are security cameras at work. If you can narrow down when the pills disappeared, ask to have that footage reviewed.

And if your doctor requires a police report, file one. Be honest about what you know and what you suspect.

I appreciate that you’re worried about the consequences for whoever may have taken your medication. But if someone stole money from your desk, wouldn’t you want them caught?

Stealing prescription medication is even worse. They’re not just taking something that’s yours. They’re putting your health at risk.

You shouldn’t have to jeopardize your own health because you’re worried about someone else facing the consequences of their actions.

Maybe they have an addiction that needs to be addressed. You can be compassionate toward someone without protecting them from accountability.

And a gentle reminder for you: please keep your medication somewhere safe. I’d hate for you to have to go through this again.

With love,

Ursula

If you have a family or work dilemma, or you need advice after going through a major change, I’m here to help you! Send your question to me on MyNorthwest or email me directly at askursula@bonneville.com.

Listen to Gee and Ursula on “The Gee and Ursula Show” weekday mornings from 9 am to 12 pm on KIRO Newsradio.

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