5 Signs Your Teen Is Using Study Drugs
It's no secret that study drugs are becoming more and more popular among high school and college students. But what are study drugs, exactly? And why do teens use them? In this blog post, we will discuss the signs that your teen may be using study drugs, as well as what to do if you think your child is using these dangerous substances.
What Are Study Drugs?
Study drugs are any type of stimulant medication that is used to boost study performance, focus, and alertness. These substances have become increasingly popular among high school and college students who are looking to improve their study habits or get a last-minute boost for an important project or exam.
Common study drugs include prescription medications such as Adderall, Ritalin, and Vyvanse. These medications are typically prescribed to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). While study drugs can be helpful for people with ADHD, they can have dangerous side effects when used recreationally.
Why Do Teens Use Study Drugs?
Teens often use study drugs due to the pressure they feel from peers and parents to perform well in school. They typically believe that study drugs will help them stay awake for longer hours so that they can study more or cram for tests.
However, studies have shown that study drugs do not produce better grades or a greater understanding of the material; instead, they can lead to long-term health problems and addiction.
How Do Students Access Study Drugs?
Students are often able to access study drugs because they know someone who has a prescription or can easily buy them on the internet or the black market.
5 Signs Your Teen Is Using Study Drugs
If you suspect that your teen is using study drugs, there are certain signs to look for in their daily behaviors and habits.
- Changes in mood or behavior – Watch for sudden changes in your teen's attitude and behavior, such as increased aggression or irritability.
- Sudden increases in energy – If your teen is suddenly more active than usual, it could be a sign of study drug use.
- Increased social isolation – Teens on study drugs may withdraw from friends and family and stay isolated in their room for long periods of time.
- Poor sleeping habits - Study drug users often experience sleeplessness or difficulty falling asleep even when they're tired, which can lead to exhaustion during the day.
- Unexplained weight loss – Study drug use can cause rapid weight loss due to its appetite-suppressing effects.
Physical Side Effects of Using Study Drugs
In addition to behavioral signs, you may notice that your teen is experiencing side effects from stimulant use. The most common side effects of study drugs include:
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Insomnia
- Increase in blood pressure and heart rate
- Loss of appetite
- Paranoia or delusions
- Nausea, headaches, and dizziness
Are Study Drugs Addictive?
Yes, study drugs are addictive. The use of stimulants like study drugs triggers the release of neurotransmitters in the brain. This increases alertness and focus, as well as levels of dopamine, which is a naturally occurring chemical that plays an important role in pleasure, motivation, and reward.
The study drug user then begins to associate study drugs with feeling pleasure or relief from stress or anxiety, which can lead to an addiction. Over time, study drug users develop a tolerance for study drugs and may need to take higher doses in order to get the same effects. Regular study drug use can lead to psychological and physical dependence, which can cause serious health complications.
What to Do If You Think Your Child Is Using Study Drugs
If you suspect that your teen is using study drugs, it's important to talk to them about the risks involved and seek professional help if necessary. If there is a physical or behavioral addiction, they may require the support of rehab services or mental health therapy.
Steps for Parents
If you think your teen is using study drugs, these steps will help approach the issue with knowledge and sensitivity.
- Take the time to learn about study drugs and their effects on the body.
- Speak to your child in a supportive, non-judgmental way. Explain your concerns and how you want to help them overcome this habit.
- Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider for more information or advice on physical recovery from study drug usage.
- Reach out to local organizations that can provide counseling services or support groups in your area.
- Sometimes, your teen may not admit they have a problem. Utilize Countrywide's convenient and discreet at-home drug test kits to determine if there is substance abuse in your home and ensure your child doesn't relapse.
More Resources
For anyone dealing with drug abuse, there are a number of online resources available to help.
- The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) provides information and resources on drug addiction and withdrawal.
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides a directory of treatment facilities in the United States.
- Partnership to End Addiction provides up-to-date and comprehensive information on drug abuse, addiction, and treatment options in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment.
Get the Answers You Need with Countrywide Testing
Even the best, most responsible students may buckle under the pressure of a rigorous academic program. If you believe that your teen is using study drugs inappropriately, Countrywide Testing can help. Our tests provide confirmation so you can start addressing their behavior and get them the support they need.
Countrywide Testing is an online retailer providing you with easy access to drug tests and pharmacogenetic testing. We offer an array of products for testing at home, individuals staying clean after rehab, workplace testing, healthcare emergencies, and law enforcement purposes. Our test kits are convenient, affordable, and ship to you quickly. Plus, our lab is accredited by SAMHSA, so you can rest assured your test results are handled in accordance with the highest industry standards.
Want more information on how Countrywide can support a journey toward full rehabilitation from study drug abuse? Just contact our team today.