Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, also known as ADHD, is a chronic neurological condition that most commonly begins during childhood and progresses into adulthood when left untreated. ADHD affects the ability to focus or pay attention for any significant length of time, and sometimes affects decision making, energy levels, and impulsivity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is estimated that around 6.1 million children are diagnosed with ADHD on an annual basis. This number includes 3.3. Million children between the ages of 12 and 17, 2.4 million children between the ages of 6 and 11, and 388,000 children between the ages of 2 and 5. Boys are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with this disorder than girls are – 12.9 percent compared to 5.6 percent of the overall demographics, respectively. Most children who are diagnosed with ADHD simultaneously suffer from a co-occurring disorder, such as a diagnosable anxiety disorder or a behavioral/conduct problem.
Dependence on ADHD Stimulants is Common
However, it is important to note that adults can be diagnosed with ADHD as well (although it is far less common). Men and women who are diagnosed with this chronic condition have a wide array of treatment options at their disposal, and they will work closely with specialists who will determine the best course of action for each unique case. The condition must be medicated – if symptoms are not adequately addressed, the person who has been diagnosed as likely to experience a range of associated consequences including poor performance at school or work, difficulties in interpersonal relationships, and low self-esteem. 
More On ADHD Drugs and The Risk of Addiction
The issue with stimulant drugs like Adderall and Ritalin is that they can be habit-forming, especially when they are taken other than as prescribed by a medical professional. You can easily become dependent on ADHD medication if you take more than the recommended dose, or if you take the medication without having received a professional diagnosis.
ADHD Prescription Stimulants Can Be Abused
If you have been using an ADHD medication to increase your performance (without a prescription), Evoke Wellness is available to help. We have extensive experience treating prescription stimulant abuse disorders of all severities. Call us today for more information on our programs that are aimed at helping men and women that are dependent on prescription stimulants and want to safely get off them. Some of the medications that are more commonly used for the treatment of ADHD include:
- Stimulant drugs. Stimulants are most frequently prescribed to treat the symptoms associated with ADHD. These medications work by increasing the amounts of norepinephrine and dopamine present within the brain and include amphetamines like Adderall and Vyvanse.
- Methylphenidate is also a stimulant medication very commonly used to treat ADHD and all related symptoms. Some brand name medications that include methylphenidate as the active ingredient include Ritalin, Concerta, Methylin, and Aptensio.
- Several non-stimulant drugs can be utilized, most commonly if the patient has a history of stimulant abuse and an addictive medication is not an ideal option. Some examples of non-stimulant ADHD medications include Strattera, Intuniv, and Kapvay.
Evoke Wellness and Prescription Drug Addiction Recovery
Because many ADHD medications have such a high potential for abuse and because drugs like Ritalin and Adderall are so easily accessible, prescription stimulant abuse has become a serious issue nationwide. The good news is that no matter how severe a substance abuse disorder has become, recovery is always possible. However, because ADHD medications are so physically and psychologically addictive, a comprehensive program of recovery will always be necessary. At Evoke Wellness our team of experienced and dedicated therapists, clinicians and addiction specialists have worked together to develop a program of recovery geared towards tackling all symptoms of substance abuse as well as underlying causes. We have witnessed men and women who feel nothing short of helpless overcome addiction long-term, going on to lead the healthy, happy, and fulfilling lives they deserve. If you are ready to begin on your journey of prescription stimulant recovery, simply call us today.
