Did you know that 16% of college students have taken Ritalin or similar drugs for recreational purposes? While Ritalin can be an extremely helpful prescription drug for treating ADHD, both recreational and prescription users can quickly develop a Ritalan addiction.
Addiction to this prescription stimulant is becoming increasingly common among individuals who suffer from ADHD or other attentional disorders— putting their relationships, jobs, and overall well-being at risk.
While the situation can seem overwhelming, there are steps that those addicted to Ritalin can take to reclaim their lives back from substance abuse. It starts by understanding the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for a Ritalin addiction.
What Is Ritalin?
Ritalin is a brand name of the drug known as methylphenidate. It’s a central nervous system stimulant commonly prescribed to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
How does it work? It increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, enabling better focus and concentration. However, Ritalin can have potential side effects that include:
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
- Mood changes
It’s important to note that these side effects are present even if you’re not abusing Ritalin. Accordingly, you should only take Ritalin as instructed by a healthcare provider to ensure its safe use. For those who use Ritalin correctly, however, it can dramatically affect an individual’s ability to focus and complete tasks effectively.
The Effects of Ritalin Abuse
If those are standard side effects of using Ritalin, what are the effects of Ritalin abuse? Ritalin abuse has a wide range of effects on the body and mind. This is due to its role as a stimulant.
Side effects can be immediate and include the following:
- Irritability
- Confusion
- Sleep problems
- Appetite loss
- Increased heart rate
Long-term Ritalin addiction symptoms are even more damaging and may include more intense changes in brain chemistry. This includes:
- Depression
- Heightened levels of aggression and anxiety
- Extreme mood swings
- Addiction
Ritalin abuse significantly impacts physical health. Increased risk for stroke or cardiovascular events is possible due to long-term usage of the drug. You can also develop issues like seizures, paranoia, and hallucinations.
The bottom line? Considering these risks before taking this medication is important, especially if using it recreationally.
Signs of Ritalin Addiction
There’s a fine line between abusing Ritalin and being addicted to it. It’s not just a matter of occasional misuse of Ritalin but rather a substance use disorder. For an expert to make this diagnosis, the person must present at least two of the 11 possible symptoms of Ritalin addiction in one year.
These symptoms can range from intense cravings for Ritalin to continually using Ritalin even though it significantly impairs daily functioning or causes painful withdrawal symptoms when stopping. Here is a complete list to help you identify substance use disorders (whether you’re looking for Ritalin addiction signs or other substance abuse signs):
- Taking more than you were prescribed or need
- Wanting to cut back on usage but unable to
- Spending a lot of time finding, using, or recovering from using the substance
- Intense cravings and urges
- Neglecting daily responsibilities due to substance use
- Continual use, even when it’s harming personal relationships
- Neglecting social obligations to use the substance
- Using the substance despite being in danger
- Continual use, even when you know the substance is harming you
- Increased tolerance
- Withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit
Unfortunately, Ritalin addiction is often underestimated and overlooked, so it’s important to seek an experienced mental health professional if you think you might be struggling with Ritalin addiction.
What Is the Treatment for Ritalin Addiction?
Luckily, there are various Ritalin addiction treatment options available.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common form of Ritalin addiction treatment. It basically works by teaching individuals how to recognize and adjust unhealthy thought patterns. The idea is that, eventually, they become Ritalin-free.
Another approach to Ritalin addiction treatment is motivational interviewing. This encourages individuals to take ownership of their actions and outcomes by exploring underlying motivations and identifying goals. You can use this along with CBT therapy to increase effectiveness.
Lastly, 12-step fellowship programs offer individuals struggling with Ritalin addiction access to the following:
- Support groups
- Resources for relapse prevention
- Strategies for long-term recovery
All three approaches can be incredibly effective. They’re crucial in helping those with Ritalin addiction gain control of their lives.
What if none of the treatment options above work? If you cannot get clean out in the “real world,” residential treatment might be a better option.
Resident Treatment for Ritalin Addiction
What can you expect during residential treatment? It depends on the facility you go to. Living Stones Recovery offers a luxury live-in treatment center in Riverside, California. This means you can enjoy comfortable accommodation and complete round-the-clock care.
As a guest, you’ll have access to a private bedroom with a closet, storage drawers, and more. Aside from providing for basic needs, we offer meals and restorative treatments to enhance physical and mental well-being. What kinds of activities can you look forward to during your treatment?
- Outings
- Yoga sessions
- Meditation courses
- Artistic expression
For those looking to gain insight into themselves or find new coping mechanisms, there is also:
- Group learning
- Individual therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Peer support
Regardless of your needs, we’re here to help you on your journey. Whether you’re struggling with Ritalin addiction or another substance abuse disorder, we can help. This includes programs for both aftercare and detox.
Explore Ritalin Addiction Rehab
Are you struggling with Ritalin addiction? Ritalin recovery is possible. We believe in community reinforcement and have worked hard to create an environment that supports your emotional, physical, and mental well-being.
Please get in touch if you’re ready to start your journey. Contact us today to explore your treatment options.