Doctors prescribe Adderall to people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This drug, a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, helps individuals with ADHD stay focused. It helps them manage impulsive behavior.
Adderall can be a good drug when used as prescribed and in conjunction with other forms of therapy. It can be harmful when misused or used without a prescription.
What Happens When You Take Adderall?
The active ingredients in Adderall stimulate the central nervous system. This speeds up mental activity and provides a burst of energy. Adderall also increases the level of dopamine in the brain. This provides pleasurable changes in mood and feeling.
Adderall changes how the brain regulates norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is a hormone and neurotransmitter that accelerates heartbeat, raises blood pressure, and provides focus and energy.
Why Do People Abuse Adderall?
There are many reasons people misuse or abuse Adderall. Individuals with prescriptions may adjust medication dosage or frequency without doctor approval. Individuals without prescriptions may take the drug to self-medicate ADHD symptoms.
They may take the drug in an attempt to keep up or get ahead in school, at work, or at home. They may abuse the drug as a diet aid. Others may take the drug to feel a euphoric or energetic high.
Is Adderall Addictive?
Adderall is a stimulant. Like cocaine, methamphetamine, and other stimulants, it is addictive. Drug and Alcohol Dependence shares, “About 13% of past-year stimulant misusers met the survey criteria for dependence or abuse, as did about 10% of persons aged 12-25 who misused only non-methamphetamine stimulants.”1
One out of ten individuals taking prescription medications like Adderall may face dependence and addiction. When you are dependent on Adderall, you feel as though you need the drug to think clearly, function normally, or simply not feel bad. When you are addicted, you continue to use the drug even in the face of serious personal, social, physical, and mental health consequences.
What Is Adderall Withdrawal?
Dependent and addicted individuals will experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug. Withdrawal symptoms can even appear if you are still taking the drug but are using less than usual. These symptoms may include the following:
- Cardiac arrhythmia
Withdrawal symptoms are physically and mentally taxing. They make it difficult to quit using a drug on your own. They can put your health at risk. The safest and most successful withdrawal experiences involve medically supervised detox services. The change in environment makes it more difficult to return to drug use. Professional care ensures safety and increases comfort.
What Happens After Withdrawal?
Withdrawal and detox are not recovery. They are the first steps towards health and healing, but without follow-up, relapse typically follows. Detox should be followed by further treatment. Professional addiction treatment gives you the skills, strengths, and confidence you need to build a drug-free life. It creates the foundation for a long and successful recovery.
What Does Adderall Addiction Treatment Look Like?
Adderall addiction treatment begins with an in-depth assessment. Medical and mental health professionals work with you to determine where you are mentally, physically, and emotionally. They work with you to determine where you’d like to be. You work with your team to create a personalized recovery plan. This plan typically includes the following:
- Individual counseling
- Group counseling and peer support meetings
- Family counseling
- Holistic, supplemental, and complementary therapies
- Aftercare services
Specific timelines and forms of therapy vary from person to person. They vary for each person, as recovery progresses and recovery needs change. If you have underlying mental health concerns such as ADHD, depression, or anxiety, your recovery may involve careful management with medication. It may involve developing alternative, drug-free coping methods and life skills. All recovery programs should help you develop a sense of self and self-worth. They help you discover passion and joy in life. They teach you how to avoid relapse and balance mental and physical health.
Where Do You Find Adderall Addiction Treatment?
At Black Bear Lodge, we offer personalized Adderall addiction treatment plans. Our full range of therapeutic services gives you effective options for long-term recovery. Our secluded, peaceful location provides the time and space you need to heal. Rediscover health, joy, and balance. Talk with us today at 706-914-2327. Begin your journey towards a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
1Kroutil, Larry, Van Brunt, David, et.al. “Nonmedical Use of Prescription Stimulants in the United States.” Drug and Alcohol Dependence. 15 Sep. 2006. Accessed 21 Jun. 2017.