Adderall addiction can be one of the more subtle, but still devastating, addiction issues to plague both young adults and adults alike. As a prescription medication, it can be easy to rationalize its use and downplay the potential risks of addiction. However, recognizing the signs of Adderall addiction is crucial in order to seek proper treatment and begin the road to recovery.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant that contains a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It is primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. When taken as prescribed, Adderall can increase focus, alertness, and energy levels. However, the combination of both amphetamine and dextroamphetamine can pose a risk to its users.
Adderall can quickly lead to addiction, especially if taken over recommended dosages. Some of the many negative side-effects of Adderall can include:
- Heart palpitations, including fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
- Sweating
- Dilated pupils
- Abnormally excited mood
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Insomnia, or difficulty falling sleeping or staying asleep
- Hostility and aggression
- Anxiety
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of coordination
- Tremors
Any of these symptoms can be warning signs of Adderall misuse. Even if your Adderall is prescribed, it’s a good idea to be aware of the potential for addiction and to be mindful of any changes in your behavior or physical symptoms.
What are the Signs of Adderall addiction?
While the above signs can be negative side effects of this medication, this doesn’t necessarily mean you have an addiction. Signs of Adderall addiction can include those listed above plus the following.
Physical Dependence
Physical dependence to amphetamines like Adderall can be extremely difficult to treat. Physical dependence means that your body has developed a tolerance to the drug and now needs it in order to feel normal, or needs more of it for it to have the same effect.
While signs of Adderall addiction may vary, one of the most common signs of dependence is when an individual experiences physical withdrawal symptoms. These withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Social Disability
- Psychosis
If you feel you need to take Adderall to get through the day, need to take more than prescribed, or to avoid any of these symptoms listed above, you may have a dependence on it. Often this is accompanied by an overwhelming urge to use the drug, known as cravings.
Social Problems Related to Use
Another major criterion for any substance use disorder, including Adderall addiction, is social and interpersonal problems stemming from drug use. Signs of this include:
- Failed relationships
- Trouble at school or work due to drug use
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities that used to be enjoyable
- Issues with family members related to drug use behaviors
These are just a few examples of how Adderall addiction can negatively affect your social life. If you feel like your relationships, work, or other areas of your life are suffering because of your Adderall use, it may be time to seek help.
Psychological Issues From Use – Signs to Look For
Withdrawal to stimulants can often be accompanied by psychological issues. While no two people will have the same withdrawal symptoms, many people report that the comedown from using stimulants like Adderall often lead to psychological issues. These include:
- Agitation
- Profound sadness, known as dysphoria
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Hypersomnia
- Paranoia
These signs of Adderall addiction can mimic real mental health conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, and even more serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia. Unfortunately, without talking to a mental health professional or substance abuse counselor, it can be impossible to tell if someone who is going through a comedown from Adderall addiction is actually suffering from a mental health disorder.
Seek Help for Adderall Addiction Now
Nothing is too big to handle, including Adderall addiction. These signs above are just some of the many scary, debilitating, and life-changing ways that Adderall addiction can manifest and cause problems. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to start seeking help.
At Rebuilt Treatment and Recovery, we provide Adderall addiction treatment in Spokane, WA through our comprehensive programs. We offer a continuum of services, from partial hospitalization to intensive and regular outpatient programs, to help individuals overcome addiction and achieve long-term recovery. We also provide sober living arrangements for men. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today and take the first step towards a healthier, sober life.
