The use of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) prescription drugs for young adults is on the rise. Commonly prescribed medications, like Adderall and Dexedrine, fall into the class of drugs known as amphetamine stimulants. When taken as prescribed for an accurate diagnosis of ADHD, these psychiatric medications increase dopamine levels and stimulate the front part of the brain, whose functions allow us to reason and control our behavior. ADHD medications can be a wonderful resource for people who really need the medication. However, as a new report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) exposes, a significantly high number of emergency room visits involving ADHD medication, it is clear that people are misusing and abusing these psychiatric drugs. Before young adults begin taking ADHD medication, parents should consult a physician qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD, most likely either a psychiatrist or pediatrician, and should think deeply to determine if ADHD medication is the right therapeutic choice for their children.
Consider this
Before seeking a medical evaluation for ADHD, people should consider the following questions.
Pay attention
If you are a parent of a young adult taking psychiatric prescriptions for ADHD, it can be useful to monitor medication use, especially if your son or daughter has an history of substance abuse. Be aware of the signs that point toward prescription drug misuse.
Yellowbrick collaborates with adolescents and emerging adults, ages 16-30's, their families and participating professionals toward the development and implementation of a strategic “Life Plan.” An integrative, multi-specialty consultation clarifies strengths, limitations, and risks, and defines motivations, goals and choices.
A mental health condition that’s characterized by intense shifts in mood including both manic and depressive episodes.
People living with Major Depressive Disorder, or MDD, experience episodes of depression and sadness that are debilitating to daily life.
Those living with anxiety disorders experience high levels of anxiety and stress that interfere negatively with daily life.
A mental health issue in which a person’s cognitive function is impaired, resulting in symptoms like experiencing challenges with conducting speech, reading and writing, and behavior.
Mental health disorders that negatively affect a person’s behaviors, thought patterns, and function. People diagnosed with these disorders experience challenges with managing relationships and understanding various situations.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition that people can develop as a result of experiencing traumatic situations, characterized by symptoms including flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and more.
A mental health condition that is characterized by specific symptoms of forgetfulness and lack of concentration, which makes it challenging to complete necessary tasks.
Mental health conditions that interfere with a person’s eating habits, thought patterns, and behaviors in negative ways.
A mental health disorder diagnosable with the DSM-5 that is characterized by both obsessions and compulsive behaviors.