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Maryland Stimulant Addiction Treatment

Understanding Stimulant Addiction

Stimulants are a class of drugs that accelerate the activity of the central nervous system, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and feelings of euphoria or heightened alertness. Commonly used stimulants include prescription medications like Adderall and Ritalin, as well as illicit substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, and ecstasy. These substances can cause both short-term and long-term effects on the brain and body, which may range from increased energy to more dangerous side effects like heart problems, paranoia, and aggression.

Stimulant addiction often begins when someone uses the drug in an attempt to enhance mood, concentration, or performance. For example, individuals may take prescription stimulants to help with focus or to manage attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, recreational use or abuse of these substances can quickly lead to dependency. The intense euphoria or energy boost initially experienced can lead individuals to repeatedly seek out the substance, ultimately resulting in a cycle of addiction.

Common Street Names for Stimulants:

  • Cocaine: Coke, Blow, Snow, Crack
  • Methamphetamine: Meth, Crystal, Ice, Crank
  • Ecstasy: Molly, MDMA, E, X
  • Prescription Stimulants: Speed, Uppers, Addy (Adderall), Ritalin

What Is A Stimulant?

Stimulants are a category of drugs that primarily affect the central nervous system, resulting in increased physical and mental activity. These substances increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain, leading to the stimulating effects that characterize their use. Prescription stimulants are commonly used to treat conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy, but non-medical use can lead to a range of negative physical and psychological effects. In contrast, illicit stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine are associated with an elevated risk of overdose and long-term health problems.

What to Expect From Stimulant Addiction Treatment

At Ashley Addiction Treatment, we understand that overcoming stimulant addiction requires personalized and comprehensive care. Our approach includes a combination of medical, psychological, and holistic therapies to address all aspects of addiction. We provide both inpatient and outpatient treatment options to cater to the varying needs of our patients.

Our team of dedicated professionals includes medical doctors, therapists, and addiction specialists who work together to create a customized treatment plan for each patient. We focus on providing the tools necessary to achieve long-term recovery, with an emphasis on building a solid foundation for a drug-free life.

Are Stimulants Addictive?

Yes, stimulants are highly addictive. When used repeatedly, they can lead to physical and psychological dependence. The drug’s effects on the brain, especially the release of dopamine, can reinforce the behavior of drug use, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to stop. Over time, users may develop a tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect, which increases the risk of addiction.

  • Approximately 2 million people in the United States suffer from stimulant use disorders, including cocaine and methamphetamine addiction.
  • According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 1 in 10 people who use stimulants will develop a substance use disorder.
  • Stimulant overdoses, particularly those involving methamphetamine and cocaine, have seen a significant increase in recent years, contributing to thousands of deaths annually.

Dangers of a Stimulant Addiction

Stimulants, when abused, can lead to a variety of harmful effects on both physical and mental health. These include:

  • Increased risk of mental health disorders such as anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations.
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure, raising the risk of heart attack or stroke.
  • Long-term use can cause severe dental problems (especially with methamphetamine use), known as “meth mouth.”
  • Neurotoxicity, which can damage brain cells, leading to cognitive and emotional difficulties.

Dangers of Addiction

Addiction to stimulants has a profound impact on the individual’s life:

  • Heightened likelihood of mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.
  • Strained relationships with family and friends.
  • Impaired decision-making abilities, which may lead to risky behaviors.
  • Decline in overall health, with the possibility of long-term organ damage.
  • Increased risk of engaging in illegal activities to obtain the drugs.

Symptoms of Stimulant Withdrawal

Withdrawal from stimulants can be uncomfortable and even dangerous without professional help. Symptoms of withdrawal may include:

    Fatigue or Excessive Sleepiness

    One of the most common symptoms of stimulant withdrawal is overwhelming fatigue. Stimulants increase energy levels and alertness, so when a person stops using them, their body often experiences a significant drop in energy. This can lead to excessive sleepiness and an inability to stay awake or motivated during the day. This fatigue can be so intense that it interferes with daily activities, making it difficult for individuals to function normally. People may find themselves sleeping for long periods or feeling constantly exhausted, which can be distressing as they attempt to regain normal energy levels.

    Intense Cravings

    Cravings are a hallmark of stimulant withdrawal and can be incredibly difficult to manage. The brain’s reliance on the drug for feelings of pleasure or heightened energy makes it crave the substance as a way to restore the pleasurable effects once experienced. These cravings can be physical and mental, often overwhelming the individual and leading them to seek out the substance again in order to avoid discomfort. Overcoming these cravings often requires specialized treatment to help patients manage their addiction and reestablish a sense of well-being without the use of stimulants.

    Depression and Anxiety

    Withdrawal from stimulants frequently results in mood disturbances, particularly depression and anxiety. Stimulants temporarily elevate levels of dopamine in the brain, which is linked to feelings of pleasure and reward. When the drug is removed, the brain experiences a “crash,” leading to a dramatic drop in dopamine levels. This can result in symptoms of depression, such as feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or a lack of motivation. Anxiety can also emerge, with individuals feeling restless, fearful, or constantly on edge. These mood changes can make the withdrawal process feel even more challenging and distressing.

    Difficulty Concentrating

    Stimulants enhance focus and concentration, so when a person stops using them, their ability to concentrate may be significantly impaired. Withdrawal can make it hard for individuals to focus on tasks, follow conversations, or retain information. This cognitive difficulty can affect work, school, and daily life. People may experience mental fog, forgetfulness, or an inability to complete simple tasks. These challenges can lead to frustration and contribute to feelings of helplessness or low self-esteem.

    Increased Appetite

    Stimulants, particularly methamphetamine and cocaine, can suppress appetite. As the body withdraws from these substances, many people experience an increase in hunger. The body may crave food, especially carbohydrates and sugary foods, as it seeks to compensate for the absence of the stimulant. This surge in appetite is not only a physical response but also a way for the body to try to regulate dopamine levels by seeking pleasure from food. This can lead to overeating and may contribute to weight gain during the withdrawal period.

    Irritability or Agitation

    During stimulant withdrawal, individuals may experience heightened irritability and agitation. The lack of the drug’s stimulating effects on the brain can leave a person feeling easily frustrated, upset, or anxious. This heightened irritability can lead to emotional outbursts or difficulty interacting with others. Small triggers may feel overwhelming, and it can be challenging to maintain a sense of calm or patience. Agitation may also stem from the body’s struggle to regulate itself without the stimulant’s influence, leading to feelings of restlessness or discomfort.

    Slowed Movement and Speech

    As stimulant use increases dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, withdrawal can cause noticeable physical symptoms, such as slowed movement and speech. These symptoms are sometimes referred to as “psychomotor retardation.” Individuals may feel physically sluggish, with movements becoming slower and more deliberate. Speech may also become slower, more drawn-out, or less energetic. These physical manifestations of withdrawal can contribute to the overall sense of distress and discomfort that people experience during recovery.

    Signs of a Stimulant Addiction

    Recognizing the signs of stimulant addiction is the first step toward getting help. Some common signs and symptoms include:

    • Taking larger amounts of the substance than intended or using it more frequently.
    • Preoccupation with obtaining and using the stimulant.
    • Engaging in risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence.
    • Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home.
    • Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, or dilated pupils.
    • Withdrawal from social or recreational activities in favor of drug use.
    • Mood swings, paranoia, or erratic behavior.

    Counseling for Stimulant Addictions

    At Ashley Addiction Treatment, our counseling approaches are tailored to address the unique needs of individuals struggling with stimulant addiction. We offer:

    Family Therapy: Addiction affects the entire family, so we work with loved ones to strengthen relationships and create a supportive environment for recovery.

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This evidence-based therapy helps individuals recognize and change harmful thought patterns associated with addiction.

    Group Therapy: Connecting with others in recovery can be empowering and provide a sense of community and shared understanding.

    Trauma-Informed Care: For those whose addiction is rooted in past trauma, our therapists use trauma-sensitive approaches to promote healing.

    Inpatient Stimulant Rehab in Maryland

    Inpatient treatment at Ashley Addiction Treatment provides a structured and supportive environment where individuals can focus entirely on their recovery. Our inpatient program includes 24/7 medical supervision, detoxification support, individual and group therapy, and holistic treatment options like yoga and meditation. This intensive approach helps individuals address both the physical and emotional aspects of addiction in a safe and controlled environment.

    Outpatient Stimulant Rehab in Maryland

    For those who may not require 24-hour care, Ashley Addiction Treatment also offers outpatient services. Our outpatient programs allow patients to receive treatment while living at home and attending work or school. This program includes regular therapy sessions, educational support, and access to a network of recovery resources. Outpatient rehab can be ideal for individuals who have completed inpatient treatment or those with less severe addiction symptoms.

    Supporting Your Entire Recovery

    At Ashley Addiction Treatment, our goal is to provide comprehensive, personalized care to support individuals through every stage of their recovery from a stimulant addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with a stimulant addiction, contact us today to learn more about our treatment options and begin the journey to a healthier, drug-free life. Please reach out to our helpline, available 7 days a week, at 1-800-799-HOPE (4673), or contact us here for more information on how we can help.