College. What is portrayed in the movies as a fun, carefree time in someone’s life, it ultimately can end up being very stressful. College is often the first time in someone’s life where they create their own schedule. No parents are around to make sure they get up on time and attend class. The freedom of coming and going whenever you please can be overwhelming. One way college students stay organized and focused is by using Adderall. Today we’ll discuss the dangers of abusing Adderall, what an addiction looks like, and how we can help you. 

Why Do College Students Use Adderall?

There is a growing problem in college students where they are using prescription stimulants in a nonmedical way. College students usually abuse Adderall for the benefit of academics. Students believe that taking this drug helps them to focus when they have to stay up late completing assignments and studying. College students also believe that taking Adderall can help with scoring high on exams. Ultimately, Adderall is viewed as a tool to succeed in college.

Some Adderall users also say that they experience an improved attention span and find it easier to concentrate for long periods of time. Afterall, it can be fairly difficult to ‘pull an all nighter’ without the aid of a stimulant.

Adderall Addiction Symptoms

Adderall is a very well-known drug of abuse and is legally prescribed for certain medical diagnoses. These diagnoses/conditions include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy. Adderall abuse occurs when an individual uses adderall and they don’t have a prescription for the medication. Adderall abuse happens because it contains amphetamine which is a potent stimulant. 

People who abuse Adderall are subdivided into two groups.  The first group are those who are prescribed due to a medical condition. These people will not usually develop a substance abuse disorder or develop an addiction as long as they follow the doctor’s instructions on how to use the substance safely. However, this doesn’t mean they can’t abuse the drug ever. If you know someone who is prescribed Adderall and begins to take it more than prescribed, they may need help.   

The second group are people who buy Adderall illegally. This could be purchasing Adderall on the street or through a friend who has a prescription. The main motive for someone abstaining Adderall illegally is usually to get high or stimulated. This type of user has a greater chance of developing a substance use disorder. 

Signs of an Adderall Addiction

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Anxiety, panic, and nervousness
  • Actively seeking out the drug
  • Manipulating the drug’s format
  • Being fearful of not having Adderall
  • Sleeping difficulties (this could be falling asleep or staying asleep)
  • Being hyperactive or having sensations of excitement
  • Weight loss/malnutrition
  • Shrinking important responsibilities that are related to the core spheres of life to use Adderall. These core spheres of life include family, work, school, etc.
  • Taking higher doses of Adderall/taking Adderall frequently due to the tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms even when using the usual amount of Adderall consumption.
  • Continuing to use Adderall even though this drug abuse is causing physical and psychological issues/problems.

College students are also notorious for partying.  When using Adderall at parties and combining the drug with alcohol, there can be serious consequences. If you or someone you know is abusing adderall, don’t wait to seek help as it can be a dangerous addiction. 

Atlanta Recovery Place Works With You to Overcome Addiction

Here at Atlanta Recovery Place, we realize that stress comes in all shapes and sizes for college students. Our goal is to provide our clients with safe ways to manage stress that is occurring in their lives, without the aid of drugs. We offer many different types of addiction treatment including intensive outpatient and outpatient programs. Contact us today to start your journey to recovery! 

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