SOMEONE’S PILLS ARE NOT YOUR STUDY BUDDY

Prescription stimulants continue to be misused on college campuses. Medications such as Adderall®, Ritalin®, and Dexedrine® help manage symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). Using someone else’s stimulants to help study or to avoid boredom is very dangerous.

These drugs are unsafe for misuse; although they have been cleared by The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they can have serious side effects when used incorrectly. Taking stimulants with other substances, especially alcohol, can be harmful and deadly.

SIGNS OF STIMULANT MISUSE CAN INCLUDE:

  • Changes in appetite 
  • Changes in weight 
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Very talkative
  • Lying about their whereabouts 
  • Memory problems 
  • Needing new prescriptions frequently 
  • Changes in financial stability 
  • Seeming overworked or hyper-focused 
  • Changes in social involvement

FIND HEALTHY WAYS TO MANAGE LIFE'S PRESSURES

SPOILER ALERT

Prescription stimulants are not the shortcut you may think they are. Studies show GPAs are actually lower in students who have taken stimulants not prescribed for them. It can be overwhelming to balance everything you have going on, but you have what it takes to get it all done!

HERE ARE SOME EASY TIPS:

Have a routine and stick to it: 

Break up the day into small tasks to avoid cramming and make your day more manageable.

Stay hydrated:

Drink lots of water. Staying hydrated is a natural way to help stay focused and feel less tired.

Eat healthy foods: 

Boost brain power by eating foods like nuts, berries, avocado, eggs, and even dark chocolate can help fuel your next study session.

Sleep for success:

Make it a habit to get at least 8 hours of sleep. Getting quality sleep each night is linked to better mental health and academic success.

Move, exercise, get outside:

Physical activity reduces stress levels and increases endorphins – the brain’s feel-good chemical. Take your mind off the stress – Go for a walk, stretch, do jumping jacks, push-ups, or squats.

STUDY HACKS:

  • Make a study schedule  
  • Create a to-do list with small tasks
  • Study with a friend or join a study group
  • Take a power nap
  • Take short breaks (Try the Pomodoro® Technique)

IT’S NEVER SAFE TO SHARE MEDS

  • It’s against the law to share meds with family and friends.
  • Misusing prescription stimulants can harm your health.

STORE YOUR MEDS SAFELY

  • Keep meds out of sight, especially during parties and in college dorms
  • Keep meds locked and in original containers
  • Use a lockable medication box or pouch to store medication containers