Stimulants are a class of drugs that are commonly used to improve concentrations, alertness, and performance, as well as treat disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, while they do have their benefits, misusing these substances triggers the negative effects of stimulants, culminating in addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with the negatives of stimulant use, reach out at Northpoint Recovery for our personalized and highly effective stimulant treatment program.
If left unchecked or undiagnosed, the negatives of stimulant use can lead to severe health issues and co-occurring mental health disorders. Fortunately, by seeking professional treatment and therapeutic support, it is possible to make a full recovery from the harsh side effects of stimulants. To learn more about the negative effects of stimulants and our flexible outpatient treatment options, call us at 888.483.6031.
What Are the Negative Effects of Stimulant Use?
Stimulants act on the central nervous system, stimulating the body to be more alert and energetic. However, be it prescription medication such as Ritalin or Adderall, or street drugs like cocaine and meth, people often misuse these substances to feel euphoric, unwittingly developing an addiction. While stimulants do increase our feelings of happiness and pleasure for a short period, they lead to unpleasant side effects at higher doses.
Some negative effects of stimulants include the following:
- Panic attacks
- Anger issues
- Anxiety
- Mania
- Insomnia
- Hallucinations
- Clenching of the jaw (bruxism)
- Irregular heartbeat
- Seizures
- Impaired cognition
- Excessive sweating
- High blood pressure
- Jitteriness
Thus, while high on stimulants, a person is more prone to impulsive, aggressive, or dangerous behavior. At the same time, they are also putting immense stress on their internal organs.
In some situations, prolonged dehydration and hyperthermia can lead to life-threatening complications, and the person must be hospitalized at the earliest.
Other Long-term Side Effects of Stimulants
The negatives of stimulant use also lead to long-term health issues, such as:
- Heart disease
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Anxiety and sleep disorders
- Kidney failure
- Vertigo
- Muscle spasms
- Respiratory issues
- Liver and stomach problems
- Coma
Moreover, stimulants alter one’s brain chemistry, making it difficult for one to make the right decisions. As they regularly consume the substance, the body develops a tolerance and chemical dependency on it—craving the drug to function normally. Even if they wish to quit, they may be unable to because of the extremely painful withdrawal symptoms and intense cravings. Thus, they remain trapped in a vicious, self-destructive cycle until they get outside help and begin detox.
So, if someone you know is struggling with the negative effects of stimulants, urge them to seek professional treatment immediately. In fact, the earlier one begins treatment, the faster and easier it is to undo the damage and return to normalcy.
Get Help and Fight Stimulant Abuse with Northpoint Recovery
At Northpoint Recovery, we believe that anyone can fully recover from the negative effects of stimulants and live a productive and fulfilling life.
From relapse prevention to medical intervention and one-on-one counseling sessions, we offer the full spectrum of addiction care services as part of our flexible outpatient programs. Whether you opt for partial hospitalization or intensive outpatient care, you can rest assured that you will receive the highest levels of medication attention, therapeutic care, and empathetic support from our world-class staff. Not only will you be able to overcome the negative effects of stimulants, but you will also learn healthy coping mechanisms, improve inner calm and develop a self-motivated and optimistic outlook on life.
It is never too late to ask for help. Call us at 888.483.6031 or fill out our online form and schedule a life-changing appointment today.