like this likely do worse,” Warnock adds.
Students who use stimulants are more likely to have the following side effects:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sleep problems
- Nausea
- Agressiveness
- Increased breathing
Additonally, stimulants can cause the following long-term side effects:
- Cardiovascular complications
- Stunted growth in children and teens
- Hypertension
- Manic states
- Stroke
- Seizures
Those who take high doses of stimulants over a short period of time can also experience feelings high temperatures, sweating and irregular heartbeats.
Depsite stimulant drugs being most common among teens and young adults, the addiction that often comes with taking stimulants can last for years. Students may become dependent on stimulants to help them manage heavy workloads, family responsibilities, and busy social calendars.
Before you take stimulants
Before you think about taking stimulants, remember:
- Know the law: Taking stimulants without a valid prescription or using them in any way other than they are prescribed to you is illegal.
- Know the risks: When stimulants are taken in ways that they aren’t prescribed, they can lead to dangerous health complications. They can also be potentially deadly, whether prescribed or not. So, talk with your parents, doctor, counselers, teacher, etc. if you have questions.
- Don’t give in to peer pressure: Refrain from using stimulants just because those around you may be using them.