Stimulant Abuse

Home » Stimulant Abuse

Stimulants are a category of substances that includes both illicit and prescription drugs. For teens, stimulants can be attractive because they typically increase energy, enhance feelings of confidence and sociability, and heighten the senses. Teens may also believe that stimulant substances help them study better because they feel more alert and better able to pay attention. However, studies have found that stimulants do not increase learning or thinking ability when taken by people who have not been diagnosed with a medical condition like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Furthermore, stimulants have dangerous physical and psychological effects.

What Is Stimulant Abuse?

Stimulant abuse is the improper use of prescription or illegal drugs that act as stimulants. Such substances include amphetamines, cocaine, crack, ecstasy (MDMA), and methamphetamines (meth). Additionally, many prescription medications for ADHD, including Ritalin and Adderall, contain stimulants. Close to 1.6 million people aged 12 or older reporting current nonmedical use of stimulant drugs. Teens are more likely to abuse stimulants by misusing prescription stimulant medications.

Abuse of stimulants has both psychological and physical effects. The physical effects of stimulants include raised blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate. Stimulant abuse may also lead to unsafely elevated body temperature, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, seizures, stroke, and death. Moreover, psychological effects can include hostility, paranoia, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and psychotic symptoms, such as delusions and hallucinations.

Stimulant abuse does not technically include caffeine addiction. While caffeine does produce a small rise in dopamine, it does not cause the large dopamine surge that unbalances the reward circuits in the brain and thus can lead to addiction. Rather, regular use of caffeine to avoid withdrawal symptoms is known as caffeine dependence.

Sources: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, National Institute on Drug Abuse

It's Time to Make a Change

We Can Help You on Your Path to Mental Wellness

Blog

Clinical

Different Types of Family Therapy and How To Choose the Right One

Navigate family therapy options: Find your fit. Discover different types of family therapy to identify the best approach for your unique needs.

April 25, 2024

12 Mental Health Tips for Teens To Improve Their Health

April 23, 2024

Navigating the teenage years can be challenging, with teens facing various pressures and changes that can impact their mental health. The journey through these formative years is pivotal, shaping their self-identity, resilience, and overall well-being. Here I offer 12 mental

Why Are Teens More At Risk for Addiction Than Adults?

April 22, 2024

Unraveling the adolescent brain’s susceptibility to addiction. Explore the unique factors that make teenage brains vulnerable to substance abuse.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Family Therapy

April 21, 2024

Delve into Family Therapy: Pros & Cons. Explore its benefits in fostering communication & resolving conflicts, balanced with potential challenges.