Millions of young people and adults in the U.S. live with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They may have trouble paying attention and often face other challenges in their daily lives. Doctors often try to help them find relief through medication. One of the most popular prescriptions for ADHD is Adderall. The stimulant drug can help people focus and complete tasks. Unfortunately, like many prescription drugs, there is potential for Adderall abuse and addiction. Recognizing the signs of Adderall addiction can help you get help when you need it.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Adderall use, there is no better time to find help than now. Even though you may have started taking it according to a prescription, the addiction cycle can quickly sneak up on you. At Right Step Hill Country, we know finding an individualized substance abuse treatment program can help you build the foundation for lifelong recovery. Learn more about our treatment center in Texas by calling 1.844.675.1628 today.
How Are Stimulants Effective for ADHD?
While often described as overstimulated and hyperactive, one of the characteristics of ADHD is the disruption of the frontal lobe. The frontal lobe helps control focus and organization within the brain.
Stimulant drugs like Adderall directly influence the frontal lobe, which results in increased focus and reduced hyperactivity. This helps to restore balance and enables people with ADHD to work, study, or engage in everyday tasks without distractions.
Why Is Adderall Addictive?
Adderall is an amphetamine, which means it speeds up the messages between the brain and the body. It’s a central nervous system stimulant that helps treat ADHD and narcolepsy. The drug increases wakefulness, attention, and focus while also decreasing fatigue.
For people with ADHD, Adderall can be life-changing. It can help them focus on tasks and complete them efficiently. For people who don’t have ADHD, the effects of the drug can be intoxicating. The euphoric high that comes with Adderall use is one of the main reasons people abuse it.
The other reason that people abuse Adderall is that it’s a study drug. It can help people who need to stay up all night studying for an exam or working on a project. The increased focus and energy that comes with Adderall use can appeal to students who feel like they need an edge.
Signs of Adderall Addiction
If you’re concerned that you or a loved one may be addicted to Adderall, there are some signs you may notice. These signs of Adderall addiction include:
- Taking Adderall without a prescription
- Taking more Adderall than prescribed
- Seeking multiple prescriptions for Adderall
- Selling or giving away Adderall
- Taking Adderall to get high rather than treating ADHD
- Continuing to use Adderall despite negative consequences
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking Adderall
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, you must reach out for help. Addiction is a serious disease that can have devastating consequences.
Risks of Adderall Addiction
There are more risks than ever facing people with addiction. Illicit and counterfeit versions of medications like Adderall are increasingly popular.
These unregulated versions of prescription drugs mean that you can’t know what’s actually in them. Often, counterfeit Adderall is laced with fentanyl or other dangerous substances. This creates additional risks when taking the drug, including overdose and death.
Adderall addiction can also have long-term consequences on your health and well-being. This includes potential damage to the heart, liver, and kidneys, as well as mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Finding dual diagnosis treatment can help you manage your ADHD and overcome addiction.
Treating a Dual Diagnosis: ADHD and Addiction
One of the challenges of treating Adderall addiction is that many people who abuse the drug also have another mental health disorder. This occurrence is known as a dual diagnosis.
For example, someone with ADHD may turn to Adderall as a way to self-medicate. They may feel like they need the drug to function and live a normal life. When they can’t get their hands on Adderall, they may experience withdrawal symptoms.
Treating a dual diagnosis is critical because it addresses both disorders simultaneously. Without treating both conditions, it’s challenging to manage addiction and achieve long-term sobriety.
Adderall Addiction Treatment at Right Step Hill Country
If you’re ready to take the first step in your recovery journey, we’re here to help. At Right Step Hill Country, we offer a comprehensive treatment program that takes a whole-person approach to care. We treat the mind, body, and spirit to address addiction from all angles.
Some of the services we offer include:
- Detox
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Experiential therapies
- Recovery support services
- Aftercare planning
We know that addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all process. That’s why we offer various levels of care to meet each person where they are in their journey. If you recognize the signs of Adderall addiction, take the right step today by contacting us at 1.844.675.1628.