When taken as prescribed by a doctor to treat attention deficit disorder, Ritalin can be a safe and effective drug. But when Ritalin is used recreationally, it’s easy to end up somewhere you never wanted to be—battling addiction.
And we’re not talking about just using Ritalin to get high (which certainly happens). Ritalin can lead to addiction even when it’s used with good intent, such as to study better or focus longer at work. It can certainly also lead addiction when it’s used to help lose weight.
Just like speed, Ritalin increases alertness and concentration. For those who think it’s not that dangerous because it comes in a pill bottle, consider that it’s a Schedule II federally controlled substance because of its high potential for abuse.
Just because you can get it from someone who has a prescription, doesn’t mean it’s not a dangerous drug that can destroy your life.
Ritalin Abuse: The Signs of Addiction
Like all drugs, addiction is marked by a loss of control over your use. You need to use more and more to get the same effect you once did. Even when there are negative consequences, you keep using Ritalin.
By this point, you’ll need stimulants just to function normally. They’ll no longer give you the boost or perceived mental edge that they used to and, without them, you’ll find it difficult to concentrate at all.
Ritalin no longer helps you in any way. In fact, it is hurting you. You may be loosing too much weight, experiencing paranoia, anxiety, abdominal pain, rapid resting heart rate or even hair loss. Nonetheless, you still feel a compulsion to use it.
Once you reach this point, many people find it extremely difficult—or even impossible—to stop using Ritalin on their own.
That’s why so addiction is so often referred to as a disease. And, just like any disease, you’ll need professional help to get better.
Ritalin Addiction Rehab Near Denver
At The Raleigh House, we believe in a comprehensive approach to recovery that includes the physical, psychological, mental, emotional and social aspects of addiction. Breaking free from Ritalin is not just about giving something up. It’s about building hope for a new and vastly better life. Fill out our form or call today to learn more about our stimulant addiction treatment programs.
