Adderall is a powerful drug that helps people with ADHD stay focused. When taken by ADHD patients, the drug can help them reduce their inattentiveness and hyperactivity. It is also approved by the FDA as a treatment for narcolepsy or daytime sleepiness.
This drug has become increasingly popular with young people for nonmedical reasons. It’s on the rise in college students, who use it as a study aid or energy booster when they need to stay up for exams. The drug is also being used as a performance enhancing drug by professionals who want to get ahead in their careers.
Usually, people using Adderall for legitimate medical reasons can manage their doses as per the advice of their doctors. As long as they are following their doctors’ advice, getting an Adderall crash or withdrawal can be avoided.
The problem is, it’s hard for people who are using Adderall for nonmedical reasons to quit. A lot of times, these users take increasingly high doses depending on their drug tolerance levels so when they decide to stop or quit cold turkey, they experience severe withdrawal symptoms usually one day after the final dose. This is often referred to as the Adderall crash or comedown where users experience physical and even psychological symptoms like cravings, pain, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and more.
If you are in the same situation and you’re wondering how to avoid withdrawal symptoms, here are 5 tips to help you avoid an Adderall crash.
1. Seek Professional Help
You’re probably wondering: “How do I safely lower my Adderall dosage?” While you can probably find some online articles that will specifically tell you how to incrementally lower your dose of Adderall to safely wean off the drug, this is something that we do not really recommend.
To safely stop taking Adderall or any drug for that matter, the best course of action is to seek professional help. When weaning off Adderall, a doctor can help you get through this process safely and effectively for your specific needs. The doctor will carefully assess your situation and provide you with guidance so you can manage your withdrawal symptoms.
If you are already having substance abuse issues and you believe that you are already addicted to Adderall, consulting with a professional residential treatment facility can help. Unlike outpatient treatment, going to a residential addiction treatment center will be able to provide you a comprehensive treatment plan that will not only help you stop taking Adderall, but also address the root of Adderall use. This way, you can start anew without using substances as a crutch for these issues.
2. Nourish Your Body with Healthy Food
If you’re suffering from Adderall withdrawal symptoms, it might seem impossible to get through the day without taking more of this drug. And because of the withdrawal symptoms, it can be difficult to have the energy to do anything and even eat anything.
It is important, however, to eat healthy during this period. Giving your body the right nutrients will help you feel much better.
Make sure to focus on fresh and whole foods like proteins, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and dairy. Avoid junk food and processed foods especially those that are high in sugar. So yes, no candy or ice cream! While sugary foods can provide a temporary sugar rush and relief, these foods can actually worsen what you’re feeling.
3. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated can help lessen the symptoms that happen as a result of coming down from Adderall. It’ll also make it easier for your system to flush out all those toxins and get you feeling better. Try to drink 2 to 3 liters a day to avoid dehydration. You can also drink herbal teas like chamomile tea to help you relax.
However, try to avoid beverages that are also stimulants such as coffee, energy drinks, and alcohol. Some people who experience withdrawal symptoms try to substitute these drinks when they are trying to quit Adderall. The problem, however, is that drinking these stimulant drinks in excess can worsen your situation.
4. Get Quality Sleep
Taking Adderall for a long time can negatively affect your sleep patterns. And when you finally decide to quit the drug, you might realize that you’re already suffering from sleep disorders like insomnia. This can make it difficult for you to get quality sleep.
To help you get better sleep, here are some quick tips that you can try:
- Remove all electronics like mobile phones, tablets, e-readers, and TV in your bedroom.
- Take a bath or shower to refresh yourself before sleeping.
- Use fresh and comfortable sheets and linens on your bed.
- Regulate the temperature in your bedroom so it’s not too warm or too cold.
- Don’t eat a heavy meal before sleeping, but at the same time don’t go to bed feeling hungry.
5. Practice Self-Care Activities
Practicing self-care like exercise, yoga, meditation, and other relaxation activities can help ease your withdrawal symptoms. If you are suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, and other mental symptoms, trying to stay calm and relaxed will be good for you.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available.
Contact Lighthouse Treatment Center today.
