If you or someone you love is struggling with stimulant use disorder, you’re not alone, and effective recovery programs are available.
At The Raleigh House, we offer comprehensive treatment in Colorado that addresses both the physical and psychological effects of stimulant use.
Whether you’re navigating Adderall or Ritalin misuse or seeking help for stimulant use disorder, our compassionate team can help you break the cycle and start healing.
To learn more about treatment for stimulant use disorder, contact our team or continue reading.
What are Stimulants?
Stimulants are drugs that increase activity in the central nervous system.
They can improve focus, alertness, and energy levels, which is why they’re often prescribed to treat conditions like ADHD, narcolepsy, and treatment-resistant depression.
When misused, stimulants can lead to dependence and addiction.
Common types of stimulants
- Amphetamines (e.g., Adderall, Dexedrine)
- Methylphenidates (e.g., Ritalin, Concerta)
- Illicit stimulants like methamphetamine or cocaine
How stimulants affect the brain and body
Stimulants work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain.
While this boosts focus and energy temporarily, repeated use can alter brain chemistry, impact mood regulation, and strain the cardiovascular system.
Over time, the body builds tolerance, leading to increased doses and a higher risk of misuse.
Are Stimulants Addictive?
Yes, stimulants are highly addictive, especially when misused or taken without a prescription.
Why stimulant dependence develops
People may begin taking stimulants for legitimate reasons, but over time, the brain becomes dependent on the drug to feel “normal.”
This dependence can develop quickly and is often reinforced by the short-term benefits stimulants provide, like increased productivity or appetite suppression.
A 2020 study published by the National Library of Medicine estimated that 5.1 million Americans (approximately 1.8 percent of individuals aged 12 and older) misused prescription stimulants within a single year.
Risks of stimulant misuse
Misusing stimulants, whether prescription or illicit, can lead to serious and sometimes irreversible harm.
Understanding the potential risks can help you or a loved one make safer, more informed choices before things escalate.
Common risks of misuse include:
- Taking larger doses than prescribed
- Using without a prescription
- Snorting or injecting pills
Combining stimulants with other substances
Signs and symptoms of stimulant use disorder
Recognizing the signs of stimulant use disorder early can lead to better outcomes.
Common stimulant addiction symptoms include:
- Increased tolerance and needing more of the drug
- Cravings or obsessive thoughts about using
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia)
- Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability
- Loss of appetite and weight changes
- Risky or compulsive behavior
- Doctor shopping or seeking multiple prescriptions
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using
Long-term consequences of stimulant addiction
Chronic stimulant use can result in:
- Heart problems (e.g., hypertension, arrhythmias)
- Anxiety, paranoia, or psychosis
- Insomnia and appetite loss
- Cognitive decline or memory issues
- Mood instability and depression
What to expect from stimulant use disorder withdrawal
Stimulant withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable but manageable with the right support.
The importance of medically supervised stimulant detox
At The Raleigh House, we offer medically supervised detox to help manage:
- Fatigue or extreme exhaustion
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Increased appetite
- Sleep issues
- Cravings and mental fog
- Anxiety and irritability
Withdrawal typically lasts a few days to several weeks, depending on the individual.
Our expert team provides the medical care, safety, and support needed to stabilize your health before starting long-term recovery.
Personalized treatment
No two individuals experience stimulant use disorder the same way. That’s why we offer customized treatment plans that address your physical, mental, and emotional needs.
Stimulant addiction therapy options
Our stimulant use disorder therapy approach includes:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Trauma-informed care
- Dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions
- Family counseling and education
Therapeutic activities
You’ll work closely with your master’s-level therapist and participate in daily individual and group sessions. These help you:
- Build coping skills
- Address root causes of misuse
- Strengthen emotional regulation
- Reinforce healthy behaviors
Nutrition and exercise
Stimulants can wreak havoc on the body, leading to malnutrition and organ damage. Our team includes registered dietitians and fitness professionals who focus on nutrition and fitness to:
- Replenish essential nutrients
- Reduce cravings through balanced meals
- Support cardiovascular and neurological repair
- Restore energy through personalized fitness plans
Recreation
Recovery should also include joy, community, and meaningful activity. Our recreation program includes:
- Nature walks and outdoor adventures
- Experiential therapies
- Sports and physical movement
- Yoga and meditation
- Rock climbing therapy
These experiences help you rediscover purpose and create new, healthy routines.
Why choose The Raleigh House for stimulant use disorder recovery
We go beyond short-term symptom management.
At The Raleigh House, we take a whole-person approach that promotes long-lasting recovery.
What sets us apart:
- High staff-to-client ratio
- Individualized care plans
- Holistic integration of nutrition, fitness, and therapy
- Treatment for both prescription and illicit stimulant abuse
- On-site and outpatient options
Break free from stimulants at The Raleigh House
Stimulant use disorder doesn’t have to control your life.
Whether you’re struggling with Adderall, Ritalin, or another stimulant, The Raleigh House offers evidence-based solutions for a full range of addiction and mental health conditions that help you heal from the inside out.
We offer treatment in two Colorado locations designed to meet you where you are:
- The Raleigh House Ranch: Nestled in the peaceful Colorado countryside, The Ranch offers a serene space for those looking to recover from trauma, mental health conditions, and addiction. With nature-inspired therapies and a nurturing community, the ranch is an ideal place to find peace and heal.
- The Center for Integrative Behavioral Health: Located in the Denver Tech Center, our newest facility offers the same clinical excellence and unique healing experiences for trauma, mental health, and addiction. It’s an excellent setting as well for those individuals needing physical accessibility support in a beautiful and nurturing environment.
Let our compassionate team guide you toward a healthier future with personalized care, therapeutic support, and a community that believes in you.
Contact our admissions team to begin your journey today.
FAQs about stimulant addiction treatment
Navigating recovery from stimulant use disorder can bring up a lot of questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from clients and their families.
Can stimulant addiction be cured?
Stimulant addiction isn’t “cured” in the traditional sense, but it can be successfully managed through comprehensive treatment and long-term support.
How long does stimulant withdrawal last?
Acute symptoms usually last one to two weeks, but psychological effects like cravings and mood swings can last several weeks or longer.
Is stimulant addiction treatment different for prescription vs illicit drugs?
Yes. While core treatment methods are similar, plans are tailored based on the substance, reasons for use, and any co-occurring mental health needs.