It is that time of year – it’s warm and beautiful, the trees are blooming, and Foss Hill is the only place you want to be. But your work just keeps piling up, you cram paper after paper in and can feel your final exams looming closer every day. Although the stress may be overwhelming, remember to take care of your body and make smart choices.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the non-medical use or abuse of prescription drugs is a serious health concern, and, as many of us know, is a relevent concern to our campus. Prescription stimulants, such as Adderall, Dexedrine, and Ritalin are highly addictive and alter your brain’s activity, increasing blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. If the wrong amount is taken, or if it is taken un-prescribed, serious problems may occur. People who abuse prescription stimulants may develop a variety of dangerous conditions, including distorted thinking, paranoia, delirium, hostility, irregular heartbeat, high body temperatures, heart failure, insomnia, loss of appetite, seizures, or depression; some of these conditions also have the potential to be fatal.
According to Professor Karl Scheibe of the Psychology Department, what may start as a momentary whim on a stressful day produces greater suffering in the long run when prescription stimulants are involved.
“Its not wise. It’s not smart. And its not doing you any favors,” Scheibe said in a recent interview.“ Once you start with prescription drugs you’re starting a mad game. You’re trying to outwit the body. But the body is wise and for the most part self-regulates very well on its own.”
It is essential for anyone considering the use of prescription stimulants to learn about the drug’s potential interactions with alcohol, other prescription medicines, and over-the-counter medicines. Read the labels, learn about the variety of dangerous side effects, be aware of drug interactions, avoid self-medicating, never take anyone else’s prescription medications and never share your own.
There are better ways to get your work done without the drugs, such as power napping and quality sleep at night, exercise breaks, WEShop coffee, or studying with friends. Practice good time management, and seek out help from your professor when you need it. Taking the occasional hit on your grade is better than putting both your immediate and long-term health in jeopardy.
You will feel better and healthier without involving prescription stimulants.
If you are concerned for your health or anyone else’s, Health Services, WesWELL, and the Office of Behavioral Health are available for help and consultation. Enjoy the spring and be sure to take care of yourself in safe and healthy ways.
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