Adderall, also known as the “study drug,” has become quite popular over the years. In fact, this stimulant is misused by people from all walks of life, from younger students to those well into their careers. Ohio is no exception. Ohio State News reports that “colleges students state that Adderall is easy to find on campus.” A shocking 25% of students report misusing some kind of prescription pill with the lion’s share (18%) reporting misuse of Adderall or other stimulants.
What many don’t realize is that Adderall misuse can result in addiction and pose health risks. In some cases, they may need to address Adderall misuse and addiction with professional treatment. For some, one of the first steps in that process is a medically supervised withdrawal.
Do you need Adderall addiction treatment? If so, please call us today at 850.374.5331.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is a stimulant drug that doctors prescribe for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (uncontrollable episodes of deep sleep). Furthermore, dextroamphetamine and amphetamine (Adderall) can also treat narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep) in adults and children 12 years of age and older.
The combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine is in a class of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain. Adderall increases the activity of two brain chemicals: dopamine (a feel-good chemical) and norepinephrine (works with adrenaline to give the body sudden energy in times of stress).
By consuming Adderall, people may feel more energized and have a sense of euphoria (great happiness). Adderall is currently only prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, which means consuming it for other purposes, without a prescription, or at a higher dosage than prescribed is considered misuse.
As previously mentioned, some younger folks may misuse Adderall to try to achieve better grades (hence the name “study drug”), while older people may misuse it with the intention of enhancing their work performance. Just as people can become addicted to many drugs, those who consume Adderall may become dependent on its effects.
Adderall Withdrawal: The Problem and Solution
Prescription stimulants, like other drugs, can cause withdrawal if you have misused the drug and suddenly stop. Sometimes, withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable for the person battling the addiction. While Adderall may not be physically addictive in itself, the brain may end up relying on the drug to regulate dopamine and norepinephrine. Consequently, the brain has trouble doing so on its own. This can lead to things like cravings. Adderall withdrawal symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Depression
Adderall withdrawal is treatable, and the process can be made more comfortable for the person with the addiction at a professional detox facility. Detox is typically the first step on one’s road to recovery. Medically supervised detoxes are the safest way to halt a substance use disorder.
Am I Addicted to Adderall?
A key step in addressing your addiction is realizing you actually have one. While this can be a stressful or difficult thing to accept, it is indeed a major leap on your road to recovery. As is the case with most stimulant substance use disorders, people typically take Adderall for one or two reasons: to feel a sense of euphoria, or to feel more energized and focused.
When you become too reliant on Adderall, developing an addiction is possible. Since Adderall comes in tablet form, sometimes those who misuse it will crush it and either snort or smoke the powder. You may be dealing with an addiction if you are:
- Having financial troubles due to buying Adderall
- Taking Adderall without a prescription
- Needing Adderall to complete work
- Having difficulties with relationships due to Adderall
- Taking on more projects than you can manage
Not everyone reacts to Adderall the same way, which is why it’s crucial that you only consume it under a doctor’s supervision. Adderall can cause:
- Increased body temperature
- Seizures
- Anger
- Muscle pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Reduced blood flow
- Paranoia (fear someone wants to hurt you)
What Is a Treatment Center Like?
One of the most important aspects of the detox process is finding a treatment center that has your best interest in mind. There are many treatment centers throughout Ohio. Some offer mainly medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder, while others offer full on residential or intensive outpatient programs for those struggling any substance, stimulants included. Treatment centers with evidence-based practices tend to help ensure each individual receives the proper care they need.
Examples of evidence-based treatment include dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Inpatient treatment, also known as residential treatment, will use various treatment methods and therapies, such as those mentioned above, to improve quality of life. Furthermore, the right treatment facility will understand that each individual is different, meaning a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for everyone.
If you’re seeking addiction treatment for something such as Adderall, you can expect a variety of healthcare professionals to help you along the way. Inpatient addiction treatment programs typically last around a month. However, some programs can run longer. With inpatient treatment, you can expect:
- Focusing on your needs
- Connecting with others in recovery
- Healthy lifestyles
- No drugs or alcohol
- Structure
- Safe environment
- Focusing on individual needs and the self
- Learn recovery tools
- Around the clock care and supervision
An Adderall Addiction Treatment Program in Ohio Can Help You
At The Bluffs, we understand your situation is unique, which is why we create treatment plans just for you. Therefore, we provide the perfect retreat to get you on the road to recovery. Moreover, our inpatient rehab program will address symptoms of your addiction as well as any unique factors that may affect it.
At all times, we make use of evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. These reliable therapies help change thoughts and behavior that lead to unwanted or unhealthy habits.
Don’t allow an Adderall addiction to take over your life. Instead, call us today at 850.374.5331.
