The pressure is real. Twelve units per semester, sixteen, over twenty? That’s more than a full-time job. College students feel the financial stress, the pressure of the unknown, and even the pressure of success. It all comes together in a violent atmospheric condition called finals at least four times a year. How do they cope? For some, the answer is stimulants. Adderall abuse with college students is an issue.
Studies show that up to 20% of college students abuse prescription stimulants like Adderall. But what is it intended for, and how do we know if someone we know has an issue with Adderall use?
What Is Adderall? Understanding the Basics
It’s typically prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy. It does it by targeting neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, and getting more. The result is better focus and energy. People with ADHD typically have trouble focusing, and someone with narcolepsy generally is sleepy or “out of it” throughout the day.
Adderall is great. It can minimize the symptoms of both of these with incredible results. When used as prescribed, it can feel like focus is finally unlocked. Something that was behind an inaccessible door. This makes you feel like a new life is available to you.
This makes it an incredible temptation for college students to get ahold of some Adderall to help give them the extra edge. Maybe it comes from a responsible place, but the long-term fruit can be disastrous.
Adderall Abuse with College Students and the Consequences
When you start changing how your brain works, especially outside the directions of a doctor, it will cause issues. In the case of Adderall, the medication that seems so helpful initially becomes something your body depends on. What was once passed to you by a friend in class becomes something you start trying to get any way you can. But there are risks.
Health Risks Associated with Adderall Misuse:
Cardiovascular Issues:
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- Misuse can lead to increased blood pressure, heart rate, and, in severe cases, cardiovascular complications such as heart attacks and strokes.
Mental Health Concerns:
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- High doses are linked to heightened risks of psychosis and mania. Individuals taking 40 mg of Adderall daily were found to be 5.3 times more likely to develop psychosis than non-users.
Dependence and Addiction:
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- Regular misuse can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction, with withdrawal symptoms including fatigue, depression, and sleep disturbances.
Neurological Effects:
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- Potential for seizures, paranoia, and, in extreme cases, irreversible neurological damage.
Other Physical Health Risks:
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- Misuse may result in weight loss, malnutrition, and gastrointestinal issues.
Warning Signs of Adderall Abuse With College Students
Do you wonder if there is Adderall abuse or addiction in your life? Maybe a loved one or you? It can start as a whisper for many of us, one or two to get us through finals, and it can turn into a shout. Soon, you find yourself at the doctor trying to get prescriptions or worse.
Here are some signs that you or someone you love might have an addiction:
- Frequent All-Nighters: Staying awake for long hours, often to study or complete assignments.
- Rapid Weight Loss: Noticeable changes in appetite and body weight without dieting.
- Mood Swings: Unexplained irritability, anxiety, or aggression, especially under stress.
- Social Withdrawal: Avoiding friends or activities previously enjoyed.
- Over-focus or Restlessness: Extreme focus on tasks or inability to sit still during downtime.
- Excessive Energy: Uncharacteristic levels of activity or hyper-productivity.
- Borrowing or Buying Pills: Frequently asking for or purchasing Adderall from peers.
Breaking Free From the Grips
Whenever you are in a shadow, the key is to recognize it. Look around and begin to take steps. You might not get to sunlight with the first step, but that’s the step that matters most. If you have an addiction to Adderall, addiction treatment in Benton County can help.
Addiction is never a simple situation, and treating it is never simple, either. Getting help means you have professional and medical support from trained clinicians who will guide you through each step. It goes way beyond “quitting.” Your brain has been rewired, and it needs to get wired again.
This happens through counseling, group therapies, holistic treatments (like working with horses), and even other medications.
With any addiction, Adderall abuse with college students comes with deeper issues. Underlying concerns like mental health or time management are part of the recovery program.
Getting Help for Adderall Abuse with College Students
If Adderall abuse is affecting you or a loved one, Eaglecrest Recovery in Benton County, Arkansas, can help. Our compassionate team understands college students’ unique challenges and offers evidence-based care to support lasting recovery. Call us today at 800-662-2873 to start your journey toward a healthier, balanced life. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here for you.
