Abuse of prescription stimulants, such as Adderall, is a common issue among young Americans. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 4.3 million people misused Adderall and other prescription stimulants, with approximately 41% of them developing addiction issues in 2022 alone. Drug addiction impacts every aspect of your life and can make recovery seem like an impossibility. Thankfully, recovery is possible through 12-step Adderall Anonymous-type programs and treatment centers. By calling the National Rehab Hotline today, you can learn about treatment options in your area and start living an Adderall-free life.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is a stimulant drug commonly prescribed for conditions such as ADHD/ADD and sleeping disorders, including narcolepsy. As a central nervous system stimulant, Adderall is primarily composed of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. The drug works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain to improve focus, attention and impulse control.
For those with narcolepsy, Adderall can promote wakefulness. The drug is available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Its effects can last for up to 12 hours.
In the United States, Adderall is classed as a Schedule II controlled substance because of its high potential for dependency and misuse. Over the years, Adderall has gained an illicit reputation as a cognitive enhancer or study aid. College students often start misusing it to stay awake and study more during exam periods.
Dangers of Adderall Abuse
When used under medical supervision, the drug is an effective treatment option. However, illicit use comes with many risks, including addiction and potentially life-threatening side effects.
Short-Term Risks
Adderall is a potent stimulant you should only use under medical supervision. Taking it without a prescription can lead to various adverse effects, including:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure. One immediate risk is the potential for cardiovascular complications, including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure and irregular heartbeat.
- Anxiety and agitation. Like most stimulants, Adderall can cause or exacerbate mental health issues, such as anxiety, panic and paranoia. In some extreme cases, it can induce psychosis.
- Appetite suppression. Prolonged appetite suppression can result in malnutrition, dehydration and other nutritional deficiencies.
- Risk of accidents and injury. Adderall can impair your judgment and coordination, especially when operating vehicles or heavy machinery.
Long-Term Risks
Continued misuse of prescription stimulants can have serious consequences for your physical and mental health.
- Cardiovascular complications. Chronic abuse may increase your risk of heart attacks, strokes and other types of heart disease.
- Neurological effects. Long-term use of stimulants such as Adderall could cause cognitive deficits, memory impairment and changes in brain function.
- Addiction. Continuously relying on Adderall and other stimulants may cause psychological dependence. You might feel unable to function without the drug and experience intense cravings when trying to stop using it.
- Impact on quality of life. Addiction to Adderall can affect many aspects of your life, including relationships, academic performance and work productivity. It can also lead to legal problems and strained relationships with friends and family members.
Getting Through Adderall Withdrawal
Like with any drug addiction, withdrawal from Adderall can be an uncomfortable experience, and it can take several weeks before the drug is fully out of your system. Symptoms of prescription stimulant withdrawal may include:
- Low energy levels. You may feel unusually tired and lethargic.
- Depression and mood swings. You might experience sadness, irritability and anxiety.
- Increased appetite. After you stop taking the drug, you may find your appetite returning.
- Sleep issues. Withdrawal can disrupt sleep patterns and cause insomnia, vivid dreams or excessive sleepiness.
- Difficulty concentrating. Some people may struggle with cognitive function during withdrawal as the brain gets used to completing tasks without the drug.
Adderall withdrawal is far from pleasant. You may be tempted to use it again to relieve the discomfort. When deciding to stop taking Adderall, having a plan in place can increase your chances of success. Some tips to help get you through the worst of the withdrawal symptoms include:
- Seek professional advice. Addiction specialists can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.
- Practice self-care. Discontinuing drug use is challenging. Prioritize taking care of yourself by taking regular walks, eating nutritious food and getting adequate sleep. You can try relaxing activities, such as taking long baths and guided meditations.
- Stay connected. Reach out to supportive friends, family members or peers who can offer encouragement and accountability. You may find support in 12-step programs, where you can connect to others going through similar struggles.
- Try self-compassion. Be patient with yourself, celebrate small victories and remain committed. Recovery from drug addiction takes time, and the first few weeks are often the hardest.
Are There Adderall Anonymous Meetings?
While there are no exclusive Adderall Anonymous meetings, 12-step programs, such as Narcotics Anonymous, can offer you peer support and a structured framework for recovery. NA meetings usually focus on recovery from all types of substance use disorders, including stimulant addiction. Some meetings may address Adderall misuse and its unique challenges.
Treatment Options
Rehab programs across the country offer structured environments where you can receive the support you need to move past your addiction. Depending on your individual needs, you may opt for inpatient or outpatient addiction treatment.
Inpatient rehabilitation centers offer intensive treatment in a residential setting. These programs involve medical supervision, individual and group therapy and holistic interventions. After you leave rehab, the center may have follow-up appointments available to help continue your recovery journey. While in rehab, you can expect to participate in a combination of evidence-based interventions and 12-step meetings. Interventions could include cognitive behavioral therapy and family counseling.
Outpatient programs are more flexible and suited for people who may not need round-the-clock care. Patients receiving outpatient care can generally sleep at home while attending treatment for several hours a day at the rehab center. You can expect an outpatient program to include therapy, medication management and support services.
Various therapy modalities can effectively treat Adderall addiction, including cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. A trained therapist can help you identify and change unhealthy thought patterns, develop coping skills and address the underlying issues that may have caused your addiction issues.
Combining professional treatment and peer support group attendance can provide you with the tools you need to overcome your prescription stimulant addiction.
Finding Adderall Addiction Help
Finding the right help when you’re struggling with Adderall addiction is essential to achieving long-term sobriety. Online searches for “Adderall rehab near me” may not always yield helpful results. Reading through numerous search engine results can become a frustrating experience.
The National Rehab Hotline is a confidential helpline available 24-7. Our compassionate staff can help you find the best addiction treatment matching your needs. The free hotline connects you to a caring counselor who can assess your situation, offer crisis intervention and provide personalized recommendations. Take the first step toward recovery by getting in touch today.