Wise Path Recovery Centers ™
STIMULANT ABUSE
What is Stimulant Use Disorder?
More than 10 million people aged 12 or older misused central nervous system (CNS) stimulants in the past year, according to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Stimulant use disorder is a type of substance use disorder that involves the compulsive use of stimulant drugs, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription stimulants or amphetamines, like Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse, as well as methylphenidate also known as Ritalin, Concerta, and Daytrana. Stimulant abuse is characterized by a persistent pattern of stimulant use, even when it causes significant harm to a person’s physical, mental, or social health.
Stimulant drugs work by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, a neurotransmitter that is involved in pleasure and reward. When a person uses a stimulant drug, it causes a surge of dopamine to flood the brain, leading to feelings of euphoria and heightened alertness. However, with repeated use, the brain can become less sensitive to dopamine, leading the person to seek out higher and higher doses of the drug to achieve the same effects.
People with stimulant use disorder may engage in drug-seeking behavior, such as spending large amounts of time and money obtaining and using the drug, neglecting important responsibilities, or continuing to use the drug despite negative consequences. Over time, regular stimulant abuse can lead to changes in the brain and body, causing both physical and psychological dependence.
It is important to note that recovery from stimulant use disorder is a long-term process that requires ongoing support and care. With the help of trained professionals at Wise Path Recovery Centers™ and a strong support network, individuals with stimulant use disorder can successfully recover and achieve long-term sobriety.
What is Stimulant Use Disorder?
More than 10 million people aged 12 or older misused central nervous system (CNS) stimulants in the past year, according to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Stimulant use disorder is a type of substance use disorder that involves the compulsive use of stimulant drugs, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription stimulants or amphetamines, like Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse, as well as methylphenidate also known as Ritalin, Concerta, and Daytrana. Stimulant abuse is characterized by a persistent pattern of stimulant use, even when it causes significant harm to a person’s physical, mental, or social health.
Stimulant drugs work by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, a neurotransmitter that is involved in pleasure and reward. When a person uses a stimulant drug, it causes a surge of dopamine to flood the brain, leading to feelings of euphoria and heightened alertness. However, with repeated use, the brain can become less sensitive to dopamine, leading the person to seek out higher and higher doses of the drug to achieve the same effects.
People with stimulant use disorder may engage in drug-seeking behavior, such as spending large amounts of time and money obtaining and using the drug, neglecting important responsibilities, or continuing to use the drug despite negative consequences. Over time, regular stimulant abuse can lead to changes in the brain and body, causing both physical and psychological dependence.
It is important to note that recovery from stimulant use disorder is a long-term process that requires ongoing support and care. With the help of trained professionals at Wise Path Recovery Centers and a strong support network, individuals with stimulant use disorder can successfully recover and achieve long-term sobriety.
How Do We Diagnose Stimulant Abuse?
When diagnosing stimulant addiction, healthcare professionals may use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) to determine the presence of symptoms. The symptoms of stimulant addiction can vary depending on the specific drug being used, the severity of the addiction, and the individual’s unique circumstances. However, the DSM highlights some common symptoms of stimulant abuse that may be used for diagnosis.
These symptoms may include:
Cravings for the drug
Continued use despite negative consequences, such as deteriorating health and relationships
Withdrawal symptoms, such as fatigue, depression, anxiety, and strong drug cravings.
Tolerance/feeling the need to increase usage and dosage for an effect
Difficulty controlling drug use
Neglecting responsibilities, such as work and school obligations
Financial problems
Social isolation
Health problems that can arise from use, such as heart disease, respiratory problems, anxiety, and depression.
It’s important to note that the presence of one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean a person has a stimulant addiction. A professional evaluation by the clinicians at Wise Path Recovery Centers™ allows us to diagnose stimulant abuse.
How Do We Treat Stimulant Abuse?
Wise Path Recovery Centers ™ specializes in providing assistance to individuals struggling with stimulant abuse. Our team of clinicians understands that each client’s journey towards recovery is unique and requires a personalized approach.
We start by conducting a holistic assessment of each client, considering their medical history, personal circumstances, and any co-occurring mental health disorders. Based on this evaluation, our clinicians develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to the specific needs of the individual.
Our treatment services include detox and residential treatment, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient programs. For clients who have completed treatment but still need support, we also offer sober living housing.
At Wise Path Recovery Centers™, we are committed to providing our clients with the tools and support they need to overcome stimulant addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Our personalized approach to treatment ensures that each client receives the care and attention they need to succeed.
How Do We Treat Stimulant Abuse?
Wise Path Recovery Centers ™ specializes in providing assistance to individuals struggling with stimulant abuse. Our team of clinicians understands that each client’s journey towards recovery is unique and requires a personalized approach.
We start by conducting a holistic assessment of each client, considering their medical history, personal circumstances, and any co-occurring mental health disorders. Based on this evaluation, our clinicians develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to the specific needs of the individual.
Our treatment services include detox and residential treatment, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient programs. For clients who have completed treatment but still need support, we also offer sober living housing.
At Wise Path Recovery Centers™, we are committed to providing our clients with the tools and support they need to overcome stimulant addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Our personalized approach to treatment ensures that each client receives the care and attention they need to succeed.
View our locations.
Currently, we offer inpatient treatment programs in Morgantown, WV, as well as outpatient programs in Charleston and Morgantown, WV. We also have Sober Living Homes in Columbus, IN. Give us a call at 866-860-9772 to get prescreened and assessed for the treatment program that will best meet your needs.