Adderall is a prescription medication often given for conditions like ADHD. It works by releasing several neurotransmitters, including dopamine, in the brain. Whether or not an individual is prescribed Adderall for a medical condition, it can still be abused, leading to Adderall dependence. Adderall misuse has been found to be highest among adults aged 18-25.
Adderall is a stimulant, and it contains amphetamine. This gives it the potential to become addictive and increases the risk of abuse for those who use it legally or illegally. Understanding the common signs of Adderall dependence and knowing what the options are for treatment can help you better manage these situations.
Common Signs of Adderall Dependence
Adderall dependence can manifest in several signs.
Behavioral Signs
The first signs are often behavioral. You might notice in yourself or others significant mood changes, irritability, and moments of hyperactivity compared to moments of low activity.
Someone who is struggling with Adderall dependence might become particularly irritable when they are going through withdrawal and are unable to get their hands on more Adderall. This might lead to other behavioral signs, including theft or lying about activities and behaviors.
It’s not uncommon for someone abusing Adderall to pull away from friends and family or avoid activities and hobbies they once enjoyed.
Physical and Psychological Signs
Physical signs of Adderall dependence can include:
- Being very talkative
- High energy
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Changes in sexual interest
- Shaking in the extremities
- Headaches
- Trouble sleeping
While on Adderall, an individual might display psychological signs that include feeling particularly social, hyperactive, and talkative. They might also struggle with feelings of nervousness or anxiety.
Treatment for Adderall Dependence
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s important to get help immediately. Amphetamine addiction comes with several risks, but getting help can diminish these risks.
Detox
The first step in any treatment is detox. Detox is a chance for your body to remove any residual toxins or remaining compounds from the Adderall. This process can take several days, and the symptoms experienced are highly individualized based on personal history of substance abuse.
You should not try to detox at home. This is a process best done with the help of professionals who can monitor your symptoms and keep you as comfortable as possible.
Therapy
After you complete that process, the next step is to learn how to overcome triggers and establish healthy coping mechanisms so that you don’t turn to Adderall again in the future. This comes in the form of individual and group therapy. The right combination of therapy and holistic care can offer the skills you need to overcome your addiction long-term.
Ideally, the care you receive for Adderall dependents will include detox and ongoing residential treatment complete with different therapies at the same location. This makes for a much easier transition from one service to the next.
Overcome Adderall Dependence with Ava Recovery
If you are struggling with Adderall dependence or someone in your family is showing signs that they are dependent, Ava Recovery is a world-class drug rehab in Austin, Texas, that can help. We offer detox and residential inpatient programs, as well as an array of addiction therapy programs.
At our drug and alcohol detox center, we understand that every client needs to better connect with themselves. Everything someone does when they are addicted is an attempt to meet personal needs, and that’s why our treatment is focused on helping clients meet their needs without Adderall or other substances.
To that end, our facility works with each client to offer several therapies, including:
- Trauma-focused
- Combining DBT and IFS Group Therapy
- Individualized Treatment
- On-Site Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy
During your stay, you can take advantage of access to our rec room and volleyball court and meals from our professional chef, all designed to help you focus on your mind and body.
After you leave our treatment center, we continue to track your quality of life so that you have support as you make your transition.
Overall, Adderall dependence comes with significant risks and is something that should be addressed before the addiction gets worse. With the right type of treatment plan and the right recovery center, you can start your detox and quickly transition away from Adderall dependence toward healthier coping mechanisms.
Reach out to our team today to learn more about our residential programs.
