Addiction among high school and college students is higher than any other age group. Students take drugs for many reasons. One of the main reasons is that they are subjected to constant peer pressure.
Also, adolescents and young adults go through a phase of experimentation. Plus, the brain’s frontal lobe is still in the development phase, affecting a young person’s ability to control impulses and make good decisions. As a result, student drug abuse is an ongoing problem in the U.S.
Not all students take drugs recreationally. Many students turn to prescription medication to deal with insomnia, stress, anxiety, or depression. Others use study drugs to stay awake in class or while doing homework. Addiction treatment centers provide substance abuse treatment programs targeted to teenagers and young adults. With the right treatment, a student can get back on track and excel in school.
Why Is Student Drug Abuse a Problem?
There are several reasons why students abuse drugs, which include:
Peer Pressure
Whether in high school or college, students desperately want to fit in. A student looking for a connection in school may take drugs to gain social acceptance. Teenagers also pressure other teenagers to take drugs to justify their use.
School Pressure
Students are not yet equipped to deal with the same level of stress that adults do. However, they are often subjected to the same types of stressful situations. The pressure to excel in school combined with heavy workloads can cause a student to turn to drugs to function or cope with the pressure.
Experimentation
Teenagers and young adults are naturally curious about the world around them. They are likely to experiment with different things to test the boundaries or experience something for the first time. Student drug abuse is often a consequence of experimentation. Substance abuse treatment programs teach students to direct their curiosity in positive ways instead of turning to drugs.
Underdeveloped Minds
On average, the human mind does not fully develop until age 25. This means that teenagers and college students are not mentally equipped to handle prescription medication or illicit drugs. Student drug abuse can lead to altered brain function that continues into adulthood. Addiction therapy programs are designed to rewire a student’s brain after being altered by heavy drug use.
What Are Study Drugs?
Study drugs is a street term for stimulants that improve boost energy or alertness in the mind. Stimulants can be illicit drugs or prescription medications given by a doctor. Examples of study drugs include:
- Adderall
- Ritalin
- Dexedrine
- Vyvanse
- Concerta
While these drugs increase alertness, blood pressure, breathing, heart rate, or energy, they do not increase thinking or learning ability. Although most students intend to take these drugs only when they are necessary, their euphoric effects on the brain make them addictive. Adderall abuse is one of the most common types of prescription drug addictions.
Treatment for Student Drug Abuse
To combat Adderall abuse or other addictions, drug addiction treatment programs offer therapy and other programs specifically for stimulants. Treatment may include full residential or inpatient rehab as well as ongoing support through aftercare programs.
Students with severe cases may choose to join a residential program that offers on-site treatment and 24/7 supervision and support. Students who need counseling but can manage their addiction may prefer outpatient treatment. Outpatient services allow students to get therapy while maintaining their class schedule.
Get Help for Drug Abuse Now at Sunflower Wellness Retreat
If you are a student who is struggling with drug abuse, now is the time to get help. We provide complete treatment for student drug abuse. Our programs promote long-term recovery so that you can refocus on your studies. Contact Sunflower Wellness Retreat by calling 855.730.8825 or completing our secure online form to get started with your treatment program today.
