There are all sorts of misconceptions about the prescription drug Adderall and the people who use it. It is a stimulant commonly prescribed to children who suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which leads many people to believe that these are the only individuals who use it. However, Adderall use is becoming increasingly prevalent on college campuses as well as in adults who desire extra energy or focus. Because it is a legal prescription drug, it is frequently misunderstood to be completely safe and not addictive. However, Adderall addiction is real and can have severe consequences.
Why Do People Use Adderall?
Adderall can increase blood pressure and raise heart and breathing rates. This in turn causes feelings of increased alertness and energy, which can allow you to focus for an increased period of time. These effects make Adderall a popular study aid among college students. Adderall also leads to a decreased appetite and subsequent weight loss, making it an increasingly popular weight-loss aid, especially in a culture where obesity is a growing epidemic. Adderall is also sometimes used as a mood enhancer by those attempting to self-medicate feelings of depression or anxiety. It creates feelings of well-being and confidence, but after the effects wear off, the resultant crash includes rebound depression and exhaustion. This, in turn, will cause users to desire more Adderall, further perpetuating drug abuse.
Misconceptions about Adderall Addiction
Because Adderall is a prescription drug, many people underestimate or ignore its dangers. Among some college students, Adderall abuse is considered socially acceptable. Many see it as the moral equivalent of drinking a lot of coffee to stay up long hours to study. Students may excuse abusing it as long as they only do so in moderation, during finals or midterms. They tell themselves that it is ok because they use it to study and not to get high. Many students also believe that they probably have some degree of ADHD that is undiagnosed, so they take the medication they would need. Adults who use it can see it as a good way to lose weight or have the energy to succeed. Unfortunately, un-regulated Adderall use can have serious negative consequences, so you should never use it outside a doctor’s prescription and supervision.
Why Is Adderall Abuse a Problem?
When Adderall is taken regularly it can have some serious side effects, such as tremors, high blood pressure, irregular or increased heart rate, seizures, and hallucinations. Most people who use the drug don’t do so with the intention of abusing it; however, addiction is a legitimate threat. Addiction often happens accidentally and because of this people can be reluctant to seek help. However, quality rehab treatment will likely be necessary in order to achieve a full and lasting recovery. If left untreated, Adderall addiction can quickly become an obsession, wreaking havoc on both a user’s health and personal life. It can damage relationships and affect your school or work performance. Adderall addiction is a serious problem that requires professional treatment.
Adderall Abuse Help
Have you or someone you love developed a problem with Adderall use? Let us help you. We are here 24 hours a day at our toll-free helpline to answer your questions, provide a caring listener and connect you to recovery resources.
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