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If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you might be familiar with a drug called Adderall. Belonging to a class of medications known as stimulants, Adderall is often used to treat ADHD and improve concentration and attention abilities.
Because Adderall is commonly prescribed by doctors for children and adolescents, many people don’t view it as dangerous. However, in reality, Adderall has the capacity to become very addictive. Keep reading to learn more about the severity of this addiction, available treatments and how to find the right rehab for Adderall addiction.
The Issue of Adderall Addiction
As mentioned above, Adderall is a stimulant. This refers to drugs that stimulate, or increase activity in, the central nervous system (CNS). Once Adderall enters the system, it boosts levels of neurotransmitters called dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps improve focus, attention span and productivity, which lessens symptoms of ADHD. Adderall may also be used to treat narcolepsy.
In addition to improving focus, these neurotransmitters can provide a sense of pleasure. To heighten feelings of pleasure, people may begin taking more Adderall than advised. Over time, the brain can start developing a dependency on Adderall, leading to addiction. The person might need higher doses and feel a strong compulsion to use the drug. And, if they stop taking it, they may experience the following symptoms:
- Mental fog and concentration problems
- Reduced physical activity
- Difficulty sleeping
- Increased fatigue
Despite the potentially dangerous effects, Adderall is a widely accepted treatment. According to 2017 data, approximately 16 million American adults used prescription stimulants like Adderall. Of this amount, about 5 million adults misused the drug. While the symptoms of Adderall addiction can be debilitating, there is a silver lining: Treatment is available.
What Happens During Adderall Rehab?
Those experiencing Adderall addiction can benefit from rehab. Put simply, rehab is a type of inpatient treatment that involves professional, 24-hour care and supervision. During a typical day, patients attend various therapy and support groups designed to address underlying mental health problems that may have encouraged addiction in the first place. Here are a few common types of therapy.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): During CBT, patients analyze negative emotions and thought patterns that have influenced their behavior. Then, they work to transform these negative feelings into positive ones.
- Motivational interviewing (MI): This form of therapy uses motivation to encourage change. Through positive encouragement, clients are inspired to create a comprehensive plan of action surrounding their addiction.
- Family therapy: Addiction doesn’t just impact the person — it also affects their loved ones. From anger and frustration to fear and resentment, family members experience a wide range of emotions. During family therapy, mental health professionals work with clients and their families to address these emotions and build a strong support network.
- Support groups: Rehab for Adderall addiction gives clients an opportunity to connect with other individuals who are experiencing the same issues. Many rehab centers host support sessions where clients can share their stories and listen to others talk about their experiences.
- Specialized sessions: Depending on their unique needs, clients may engage in specialized sessions centered around their personal mental health. For example, clients who became addicted to Adderall after losing a loved one may take grief counseling. Or clients who experienced intense anger after Adderall withdrawal might begin anger management classes.
The safe, sober environment, coupled with regular therapy and support groups, can help those struggling with Adderall dependency overcome the addiction.
For the best results, it’s important that clients receive a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the addiction and any underlying mental health concerns. This is because, in many cases, addiction is connected to poor mental health. Almost 40% of people with substance use disorders also suffer from mental illness. Thus, treating mental health issues helps reduce the risk of relapse.
What Are the Benefits of Residential Rehab for Adderall Addiction?
Although rehab can be very helpful in overcoming an Adderall addiction, many people are hesitant to pursue inpatient treatment. The prospect of living in a facility for a few months can be overwhelming. While there are forms of outpatient treatment available, residential Adderall rehab is generally more effective. Here are a few key benefits:
- Improved safety
- Medical and mental health support
- Socialization
- Continuous support
First, residential rehab provides a safe environment in which patients can safely detox or withdraw from Adderall. It’s an entirely sober atmosphere, and all patients have access to 24/7 medical support if needed. Furthermore, patients can connect with a network of mental health professionals, which may help manage the negative emotions that often accompany addiction.
Along with improved safety and care, residential rehab provides a network of like-minded people for patients to connect with. Patients can form friendships with people who understand their struggles and motivate each other to achieve recovery.
It’s important to note that care doesn’t end with the conclusion of the program. Many residential rehab programs recognize that recovering from Adderall addiction is an ongoing process. Thus, they take steps to help ensure patients receive continuous support. This may involve anything from follow-up phone calls to connecting patients with therapists and support groups.
Ultimately, the purpose of residential rehab is to give patients the skills they need to maintain sobriety. Throughout the process, patients learn how to manage their emotions, function without Adderall and achieve a healthy lifestyle.
How to Find the Right Adderall Rehab Program
Battling a substance use disorder isn’t easy. For those addicted to Adderall, it can be extremely difficult to stop taking the drug. However, with the right Adderall rehab program, it’s possible to conquer an addiction and move toward recovery. To determine which program is right for you, consider your unique needs.
In other words, what mental health treatment are you looking for? Perhaps you need cognitive behavioral therapy to assist with negative thought patterns, or maybe you’re interested in anger management courses. Whatever it is you’re looking for, it’s important to choose a program that provides those services.
At FHE Health, we offer an expansive list of drug treatments and mental health services, including various therapies. By creating individualized treatment plans, we can help patients struggling with Adderall addictions achieve a better, sober lifestyle. To learn more, contact us.
