Millions of people use stimulants every single day. As an example, the nicotine in cigarettes and the caffeine in coffee are both stimulants. There are also some stimulants that are prescribed by a doctor like Adderall or Ritalin and are used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The last kind of stimulant is the kind that is illegal no matter what and includes amphetamines, cocaine, and methamphetamines. Since the last two kinds all cause feelings of focus, excessive energy, and euphoria, they are very tempting to abuse. They are also very easy to become physically dependent and addicted to.
Risk Factors and Causes of Stimulant Addiction
Many different addiction specialists and mental health professionals believe one specific cocktail can result in stimulant addiction. It is a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors all working together to create the perfect storm. While we may not ever know the exact cause of addiction, there are some theories. Once a person starts using stimulants, inherited genetic factors may partly cause the development of addictions. In addition, people who have family members with substance abuse problems may have an increased risk of developing an addiction themselves. In addition to genetic factors, a person’s environment can play a huge role in developing a stimulant addiction. For example, both family attitudes and beliefs toward drug abuse or hanging around other people who use drugs can both increase the chances of addiction.
The Signs and Symptoms of Stimulant Abuse
When a person is abusing or addicted to stimulants, there are many different signs and symptoms that will develop. People who abuse stimulants will exhibit psychological, behavioral, and physical changes. Behavioral symptoms include:
- Erratic behavior
- Increased energy
- Violence and aggression
- Dropping activities they once enjoyed
- Engaging in risky behavior
- Manic behavior
- Restlessness
- Borrowing or stealing money
Physical signs and symptoms include:
- Dilated pupils
- Decreased appetite
- Loss of coordination
- Dizziness
- Chest palpitations and pains
- Vomiting
- Excessive sweating
- Collapsing
Psychological signs and symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Delusions
- Panic
- Suicidal or homicidal tendencies
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
- Psychosis
Effects of Stimulant Addiction
If a stimulant addiction goes untreated, you steadily increase the risk of developing many adverse effects that will interfere with all areas of your life. Some are even life-threatening. It is common to develop dental problems, which can lead to several diseases, long-term heart problems, brain damage, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, psychosis, legal troubles, unemployment, heart attacks, strokes, and eventually death. One of the most common effects of stimulant addiction is the risk of an overdose. This occurs when a person takes more than their body can handle at once within a short period. If medical help is not provided, it can result in death.
Stimulant Addiction Treatment at Evoke Waltham
The first step in the road to recovery from addiction is a medically assisted detox where doctors and trained staff can monitor your safety in a controlled environment. At the same time, you rid your body of the drugs. After that comes the real work. Inpatient treatment is always recommended after detox so that you can get to the root of your addiction and have the tools to prevent relapse in the real world. Addiction isn’t an easy thing to face. Luckily you do not have to face it on your own. We are available to help you find the right treatment for you. We are ready to help you or a loved one overcome the disease of addiction. Now is the time to change your life. Let us help you do it.
