Stimulant Withdrawal

Although the short-term effects of stimulants are desired, continuous use of any drug in the stimulant drug class, over time, can lead to severe long-term consequences. These negative side-effects after prolonged use are both physical and psychological. Long-term effects of stimulants are:

Stimulant Addiction

Stimulants initially make the individual feel as if they are invincible. They will feel euphoric, productive, and generally happy; but, this is short-lived. Stimulants take a toll on the brain and the body rather slowly but it does happen and the effects aren’t as pleasurable as they initially seem to be. This can be extremely dangerous because the individual may be in denial or not realize their addiction is taking a serious turn for the worse on the body as well as the brain.

Stimulants affect the central nervous system of the brain. It affects the brain’s pleasure receptors by producing an overabundance of dopamine. With extended use of stimulants and the constant influx of “feel-good chemicals” the brain eventually stops producing them on its own, leading to intense psychological withdrawal symptoms as well as a continuation of using these types of drugs to avoid the lows brought on by a lack of the drug. At this point, the brain’s natural functioning begins to shut down.

When this immediate feeling of pleasure enters the brain, addiction is bound to set in. Becoming addicted to stimulants relies greatly on the individual and their pre-exposure to addiction, however, anyone can become addicted. The effects of stimulants on the brain and body can be alarming, especially when the disease of addiction is present. Tolerance, withdrawal, and dependence are all factors of addiction and the intensity of these factors while using stimulants can hinder an individual’s ability to recover.

Although it is commonly thought to be unnecessary, stimulant detox plays a crucial role in the overall recovery process as a whole. Stimulant withdrawal symptoms commonly set in as soon as cessation occurs and may last from a few days to a few months, so professional help is the most consistent way to ensure that relapse is prevented.

While in the detoxification stage, antidepressants may be prescribed to patients who suffer from significant mental health conditions. However, use of medications such as these is reserved until the severe withdrawal phase is over. Anti-anxiety medications are used in short-term to help ease anxiety from withdrawal, and antipsychotic medications may also be used if the patient shows significant signs of psychosis.

Common Stimulants

Tips for Coping with Stimulant Withdrawal

• It is important to remember that your anxiety, agitation, and irritability are just symptoms of your stimulant withdrawal. If you find yourself constantly losing your temper with people, ask that they understand what you are going through. While it takes self-control, explaining why you are irritable can be very useful and effective in ensuring that you are not misunderstood.
• Sleep and diet are essential in helping treat your withdrawal symptoms. Because of stimulant withdrawal symptoms (insomnia, change in eating habits, etc.), it should be a priority to capitalize on the chances you may have to counter the symptoms. For example, if you suddenly feel tired after an extended period of insomnia, you should take advantage of it and sleep when you can.
• Do not spend too much time alone. While it may seem to make you feel better, isolation exponentially increases the chance and severity of depression as a withdrawal symptom. Going for a walk with a friend or having a conversation on the phone can very much help your withdrawal phase go as cleanly and comfortably as possible.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction to stimulants or other mind or mood altering substances, do not hesitate to ask for help. At Maryland House Detox, our trained professionals can help you or a loved one with questions or concerns about getting the help you need. It’s never too late to start over, so why wait?