Why Adderall Abuse in Women Is on the Rise

Some women are abusing Adderall to have more energy, lose weight, and improve their concentration and focus. They are stealing it from their kids, faking symptoms to their health-care providers, or are given prescriptions in the absence of the correct diagnosis by their providers.

Here’s the bottom line: Adult ADD/ADHD is a brain disorder that can be treated effectively. If you are frazzled or stressed-out, fight the temptation to just “take a pill” by asking yourself these questions:

• How often do I have trouble with the final details of a project?
• How often do I have difficulty organizing?
• How often do I have trouble remembering appointments?
• How often do I delay or avoid challenging tasks?
• How often do I fidget?
• How often do I feel like a motor is driving me?

If the answer to one or more of these is extremely often, take an inventory of your symptoms and talk to your health care provider.

The pressures of everyday life are very real and should be managed in a healthy, safe and productive way. Here are a few strategies to help you cope:

Regular Exercise

By exercising 30 minutes a day, mental clarity, focus and well-being are enhanced. A good workout releases dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.