Adderall addiction recovery, like all substance use disorder recovery, is a lifelong process. It involves breaking the physical and psychological dependence on Adderall, learning healthy coping mechanisms for ADHD or narcolepsy, and making necessary lifestyle changes to maintain sobriety. How do you get started with Adderall addiction recovery? What does long-term recovery look like? Here are some steps into the recovery process for Adderall.
What is Adderall Addiction?
Adderall is a prescription medication typically used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It contains amphetamine, which is a stimulant that increases the release of dopamine in the brain. This release of dopamine plays a big role in helping reduce the need for outside stimulation in people with ADHD.
But when taken in high doses or without a prescription, Adderall can also produce feelings of euphoria and increased energy. These effects make it popular among people looking for a quick boost in productivity or performance.
Adderall and stimulant misuse is increasingly common in younger, college-aged individuals. Studies show that almost 17% of college students sampled reported having engaged in prescription stimulant misuse behavior.
Signs and Symptoms of Adderall Addiction
While misuse of Adderall might seem normalized, especially for college students looking to power through studying and exams, it can quickly lead to addiction. It’s important to understand the slight difference between misusing and Adderall addiction.
Misusing Adderall can mean taking a different dose or using it for another therapeutic reason. However, using Adderall for a non-therapeutic reason can be a sign of substance use disorder. Other signs of Adderall addiction include:
- Using Adderall to achieve a desired (not therapeutic) psychological or physiological effect.
- Strong desire to take Adderall
- Difficulty controlling drug use
- Continuing to take Adderall despite harmful consequences
- Prioritizing drug use instead of work, school, or home obligations
- Physical tolerance and dependence
If you notice any signs or symptoms of physical dependence or Adderall addiction, it’s time to start exploring Adderall addiction recovery. The sooner treatment is sought, the better the chances of successful recovery.
Adderall Addiction Recovery and Treatment
Treatment for Adderall addiction typically involves a combination of medication and therapy. The goal of treatment is to help individuals overcome their physical dependence on Adderall and address any underlying psychological issues that may be contributing to their addiction. Here is what the Adderall Addiction process looks like.
Adderall Detox
Adderall, like other stimulants and amphetamines, can lead to a severe withdrawal lasting up to three weeks. This period is known as the “Crash,” and it can be difficult for individuals to handle on their own. That’s why it’s essential to seek medical supervision during the detox process – especially if you have been using high doses of Adderall or using it for an extended period.
During detox, medical professionals will monitor your symptoms and provide appropriate medication and support to help ease withdrawal symptoms. Unfortunately, there currently are no medications that can assist with amphetamine withdrawal. However, support from mental health and addiction treatment staff can be invaluable in Adderall addiction recovery to prevent relapse.
Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders
Some people living with Adderall addiction also live with ADHD. In fact, an estimated 50% of adults and adolescents living with substance use disorder have a lifetime diagnosis of ADHD.
If you began using Adderall as a way to self-medicate undiagnosed ADHD, it’s essential to have an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. There are several different treatment options for people with both ADHD and addiction, including:
- Behavioral therapy to learn how to manage ADHD symptoms without using Adderall
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy to reframe negative thinking about ADHD and addiction
- Family therapy to address underlying family dynamics that may contribute to addiction and ADHD symptoms
- Alternative therapies like art and yoga therapy
Using these treatment options and other therapies can help you stay sober and learn to manage symptoms of ADHD without relying on Adderall. While only treating the ADHD or addiction alone leaves a gap in treatment, treating them simultaneously can help improve overall outcomes and reduce the risk of relapse.
Life After Adderall Addiction Recovery
After completing detox and receiving treatment for co-occurring disorders, it’s essential to continue with ongoing support to maintain sobriety. This may include:
- Attending outpatient therapy sessions
- Joining support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous or ADHD support groups
- Participating in aftercare programs like sober living specifically designed for individuals recovering from Adderall addiction
- Creating a relapse prevention plan to recognize the signs of stimulant relapse
All of these are doable with the help of a comprehensive treatment plan, support from loved ones, and personal dedication to recovery. With the right tools in place, you can successfully navigate life after Adderall addiction recovery.
Atlanta Recovery Place Can Help With Georgia Adderall Addiction Recovery
It’s crucial to seek proper diagnosis and treatment for both ADHD and substance use disorder to achieve lasting recovery. At Atlanta Recovery Place, we’re proud to offer dual diagnosis treatment in Atlanta for Adderall addiction recovery, co-occurring disorders like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. Our goal is to design the perfect outpatient treatment program that fosters long-term success for our clients. From art therapy to yoga, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient treatment, and more, we’ll find a program that works for you. Contact us today so you can get started on your path toward sobriety.
