Stimulant Abuse on College Campuses

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Prescription stimulant abuse is a frequent issue on many college campuses today. Prescription drugs like Adderall are abused widely for their side effects and ability to keep a person alert and focused to stay awake for long periods of time. Illegal stimulants like cocaine are also abused in the same way. Both instances of abuse are very dangerous, but prescription stimulant abuse is often more rampant in the college setting.

The Myths of Stimulant Use

There are several myths that perpetuate the nonmedical use of stimulants by young adults and teenagers on college campuses. Students abuse stimulants mainly for two reasons: for the high they cause and as a “performance enhancement” when they need to stay up all night cramming for exams. According to one study, here are some college myths regarding stimulant abuse:

• Stimulants can be used as “study aids.”
• After exams are over, it’s easy to just stop abusing the drug.
• It’s harmless.
• You won’t feel any consequences
• It’s a “shortcut” to compensate for partying or skipping class

Due to these myths, many students who abuse stimulants believe they don’t have any real concerns. They often think that they can use the drug for its desired effects and then stop when they want to. Many students also believe stimulants make them smarter or get them better grades, but one study actually shows that nonmedical prescription stimulant users generally have lower GPAs than non-users. In addition, there are many risks brought on by stimulant abuse.

Stimulant Addiction

Stimulants like Adderall are abused all too often by college students.

In the initial stages of stimulant abuse, there may be few to no side effects, making it seem safe. Stimulants tend to suppress appetite, increase wakefulness, and increase focus and attention, which all seem like favorable results for college students.

But prescription stimulants are addictive. They share many of the same traits as cocaine, and, according to the National Library of Medicine, combining dextroamphetamine and amphetamine can be habit-forming. This is the mixture found in Adderall, a widely abused drug. Lisdexamfetamine, which is in Vyvanse, is also habit-forming. Students who don’t realize the seriousness of their actions can often find themselves addicted to prescription stimulants when using them nonmedically.

Dangers of Stimulant Abuse

One 2019 study has shown a correlation between teenage drug use and drug dealing with carrying firearms. The study noted that gun violence is often linked to other crimes, such as:

• Homicide
• Theft
• Gang involvement
• Witnessing fights
• Peer delinquency

Users of stimulants can lead to other risks because of the nature of addiction. Young people with limited incomes may initiate other crimes to pay for or steal drugs, which correlates with other criminal activities. Students who use stimulants are also putting themselves at risk for cardiovascular problems, seizures, and intense mood swings and hallucinations.

Stimulant abuse can lead to health risks, addiction, and delinquent behaviors. Prescription stimulants are not smart drugs, nor are they meant to be study aids. Their abuse on college campuses can be very dangerous for students who don’t know their full effects.

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