What Is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription medication that contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These ingredients are stimulants that are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Adderall works by influencing the nerves in the brain that affect hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Adderall helps people with ADHD improve focus and impulsivity, however, it is a controlled substance and has a risk of dependence.
Get started with Adderall addiction therapy, online or in-person.
What Causes Adderall Addiction?
Some risk factors for Adderall addiction include:
- Recreational use of Adderall
- Past traumatic experiences
- Co-occurring disorders
- Peer pressure
- Lack of education
Addressing the causes of Adderall addiction is crucial to preventing addiction and achieving long-term recovery. The key to working with Adderall addiction is treating underlying trauma.
In my personal and professional experience, substance use is a coping mechanism for traumatic experiences and negative emotions before the individual has access to healthy coping skills.
Signs and Symptoms of Adderall Addiction
Signs and symptoms of Adderall addiction include:
- Increased tolerance
- Craving
- Neglect of responsibilities
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Mood swings
- Impaired cognitive functioning
- Social isolation
Not everyone who experiences an Adderall addiction will exhibit these signs and symptoms. If you or someone you know is living with an addiction to prescription medications it is important to seek professional help to treat the underlying causes of the addiction with trauma counseling.
Short and Long-Term Effects of Adderall Addiction
Short-term effects of Adderall addiction include:
- Euphoria
- Increased alertness
- Increased focus
- Decreased appetite
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Long-term effects of Adderall addiction include:
- Dependence
- Cardiovascular issues
- Mental health issues
- Cognitive impairment
- Weight loss
- Social and relational problems
- Legal and financial issues
The severity of symptoms depends on the dosage, duration of use, and overall physical and mental health. Trauma therapy and support groups play a vital role in recovery.
How to Know When It’s Time for Treatment
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s a good sign that it is time to seek treatment for Adderall addiction:
- Increased tolerance
- Failed attempts to quit
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Psychological distress
- Cravings
- Legal issues
- Health concerns
- Relationship problems
If you feel you cannot discontinue using Adderall on your own, it is a good time to seek professional help to gain your freedom from addiction.
Types of Treatment Available for Adderall Addiction
Types of treatment for Adderall addiction include:
- Detoxification: Medically supervised detoxification can help you safely discontinue the use of Adderall while managing withdrawal symptoms.
- Inpatient rehabilitation: This form of treatment involves the patient living at a residential facility for a pre-determined amount of time, which provides a high level of around-the-clock professional support.
- Outpatient treatment: This form of treatment involves the patient attending trauma therapy sessions weekly while residing at home.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This therapy can be done in an inpatient or outpatient setting. CBT helps you reframe the negative thoughts that lead to Adderall use.
- Motivational interviewing (MI): MI helps clients assess their goals and their motivation to achieve these goals.
- Psychoeducation: This involves the therapist educating clients on addiction and important aspects of recovery that can help clients achieve long-term sobriety.
The type of treatment an individual needs depends on the severity of addiction as well as trauma history. Talk to your counselor about which form of treatment is right for you.
The Benefits of Adderall Addiction Treatment
Benefits of Adderall addiction treatment include:
- Long term sobriety
- Improved physical and mental health
- Increased coping skills
- Rebuilding relationships
- Community and support
- Improved work performance
- Legal and financial stability
- Improved self-esteem
The benefits of Adderall addiction therapy extend beyond you. Your relationships, work, and overall life satisfaction will improve. Seeking help and participating in a comprehensive treatment program is a positive step toward achieving these benefits and overcoming addiction.
Our dedicated team stands ready to guide you through the path of Adderall addiction therapy. With a focus on education and evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and EMDR, we offer a trusted and effective approach to recovery. Don’t wait any longer; take the first step toward a healthier, addiction-free life by reaching out to us for personalized support and treatment.