The Adderall Epidemic: Is Adderall Abuse on the Rise?
Adderall abuse is common across the country. This drug is becoming increasingly more commonly abused, leading to dangerous impacts on the individual’s lifestyle. Overcome Adderall misuse and addiction is possible, with the right care and support. Learning to live without using this drug can cause a positive shift in the person’s life, making them increasingly more productive and successful.
What Makes Adderall So Addictive?
The effects of Adderall on dopamine and norepinephrine contribute to the addictive nature of the substance. This is a stimulant drug that, when introduced to the body, can enhance focus, energy, and alertness. However, the surge of dopamine that occurs due to Adderall misuse can also affect the brain’s reward system, leading to a sense of euphoria. Over time, continued misuse of this substance can result in tolerance, resulting in the individual needing higher and higher doses to achieve the desired results, contributing to addiction to the substance.
The Physical and Psychological Effects of Adderall Use
Physically, the effects of Adderall can include high blood pressure and increased heart rate. This can cause strain on this vital organ, resulting in cardiac problems later on down the road. Appetite suppression can also occur, contributing to dramatic weight loss and malnutrition. Insomnia, dry mouth, as well as tremors, and muscle tension can also be physical effects of abusing Adderall. Psychologically, the effects of Adderall misuse can include increased focus alertness, and euphoria. However, less pleasant effects can include increased anxiety, irritability, and mood swings, as well as paranoia and psychosis.
Why Do People Abuse Adderall?
The effects of Adderall on the brain contribute to the abuse of the substance. Adderall acts on the reward system within the brain, leading to a pleasant sensation and continued misuse to feel that sensation. It is also commonly abused by students or those with high-demand jobs. It is a stimulant that can increase focus and energy, and individuals feel a sense of increased productivity while under the influence of Adderall. However, over time it can be extremely detrimental to work and school performance.
How is Adderall Abused?
Common ways of abusing Adderall include taking higher-than-prescribed doses and using it without a prescription. However, this drug is commonly crushed and snorted as a means of introducing the effects of the drug more quickly. It is also commonly mixed with other substances, contributing to the adverse effects of misusing Adderall.
Adderall Abuse Statistics
It is estimated that approximately 20% of college students reported abusing Adderall, or similar stimulants, without a prescription. The students cited improving their academic performance as the reason for misusing the drug. It is estimated that in 2020 5.3 million Americans aged 18-25 misused this drug, and of those about 56% obtained the substance from family and friends.
Exploring the Rise in Misuse, Especially Among Young Adults
According to an article by Johns Hopkins, despite the number of prescriptions for Adderall remaining unchanged, the number of young adults misusing Adderall and hospital visits due to the misuse has dramatically increased among this age group. People aged 18-25 more commonly abuse or misuse this drug, and it is often due to educational and job stress. These young adults often feel as though this substance helps increase their performance, and they don’t realize that over time it can contribute to a decline in work and school performance.
Balancing Therapeutic Adderall Use vs. Risk of Dependence
It is crucial to understand that Adderall is meant to be used under the supervision of a medical professional. However, even when used as prescribed, this drug can hold a risk of dependence and addiction. Addiction to Adderall can be extremely detrimental, leading to changes in mood and personality that can be dramatic and affect the individual’s relationships. In these cases, individual and group therapies can help the individuals begin on a healthier path free from substance abuse and addiction.
The Dangers of Long-Term Adderall Abuse
Abusing Adderall long-term can be extremely dangerous. The effects this drug has on the brain can be severe and can contribute to permanent alterations to mood and personality without intervention. Adderall addiction is on the rise across the country, and without the right support from an addiction professional, the risk of relapse increases. The health risks associated with Adderall misuse are great, contributing to cardiac issues, insomnia, weight loss, malnutrition, and severe dehydration.
Mental and Physical Health Risks Associated with Abuse
Prolonged Adderall misuse can lead to heart problems as a result of high blood pressure and increased heart rate caused by the use of this drug. There is an increased risk of heart attack or stroke in those who misuse this drug. Insomnia, appetite, and weight loss can contribute to malnutrition as well as a suppressed immune system without proper care. Mentally, abusing Adderall can lead to addiction. With addiction comes an array of associated risks. Overdose can occur, leading to life-threatening consequences. Withdrawal symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable, leading to continued misuse of this substance.
Recognizing the Signs of Adderall Addiction
Understanding and recognizing the signs of Adderall addiction can help lead to healing and recovery. Signs of addiction to Adderall can include continued use despite negative consequences, loss of control, and doctor shopping. Adderall cravings are also an indication that someone is struggling with this drug. Prolonged use can lead to dependence, and when the substance is not introduced into the body, the individual can begin to crave it, and until it is used they may feel uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
Symptoms and Behavioral Changes to Watch For
Behaviorally, the individual may prioritize using Adderall above daily responsibilities. They may exhibit extreme mood changes which could be exacerbated if the drug is unavailable. They could begin isolating themselves from social functions or friendships, particularly if family and friends show concern over their use of this substance. Restlessness and agitation, changes in sleep patterns, and tolerance could also indicate addiction to Adderall.
Seeking treatment for Adderall Addiction
Adderall addiction treatment can help these individuals to learn a new way of life. Through detoxification, therapy, and support the person can begin living a normal lifestyle without using this substance. Through therapies like CBT and DBT, these individuals can identify how their thoughts and behavioral patterns can contribute to the abuse of substances like Adderall. They can learn healthy and positive coping skills to overcome substance abuse and addiction and become more productive in everyday life.
Preventing Adderall Abuse: What Can Be Done?
Education is essential to preventing the abuse of Adderall. Understanding the repercussions, as well as physical and psychological impacts of this drug can help at-risk individuals prevent themselves from going down this path. For those who have been prescribed this drug, having proper professional support and guidance can help them avoid misuse and prevent addiction.
Policies, Education, and Support Systems to Address the Epidemic
The Adderall epidemic is very real. Countless individuals across the country are struggling with this substance. Without getting the care they need, the cycle can continue, leading to detrimental impacts on their health and well-being. Having a support system, both professional and peer, can help these individuals to maintain recovery from Adderall addiction. Education on the effects and long-term impacts can help prevent abuse of this drug, leading to smaller numbers of individuals being impacted.
Get the Support You Need for Your Well-Being
Adderall abuse can lead to life-changing consequences. It can be devastating to someone’s social and family life. Without proper care and support to overcome Adderall addiction, the individual can continue down a road of self-destruction. If you or a loved one are struggling with this drug, there is help available. At Virginia Recovery Centers we strive to provide a safe, healing, and supportive environment where individuals can begin their healing process. Call us today and start a journey of recovery.
