## How to Spot if Your Child is Using Study Drugs
Thousands of students and schoolkids are reportedly using study drugs like Ritalin and Adderall to get through exam seasons. However, parents are often unaware of their children’s use of these powerful “smart drugs” as there are no obvious clues. These drugs can have dangerous side effects like increased heart rate, anxiety, and weight loss, and can cost as little as £2. But Dr Samantha Miller, an NHS doctor based in Scotland, has shared some tips on how parents can spot if their child is taking these addictive medications.
### Warning Signs to Look Out For
– A change in eating habits, energy levels, and focus on studying could all be warning signs that your child is taking study drugs.
– Parents who notice a drop in their child’s appetite, such as eating smaller portions at mealtimes or not wanting food at all, should broach the subject of study drugs “without judgement.”
– A child having more energy than normal could be another visible change.
– An excessive focus on academic pursuits is another red flag that could signal that a child is taking substances designed to boost concentration.
– If you have noticed your child staying up later at night or getting up earlier in the morning to study, particularly in a child who would not usually be awake at these times, it may raise the possibility of illicit drug use.
### What are Study Drugs?
Study drugs are prescription medications that are being used, often by students, to enhance their performance and focus. They are typically stimulant medications such as amphetamines (Adderall) or methylphenidate (Ritalin). These medicines are usually prescribed to those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to help them concentrate better, be less impulsive, and feel calmer. Some surveys indicate that around one in the students in the UK and US have used study drugs.
### Negative Effects of Study Drugs
– Both Adderall and Ritalin can potentially lead to an increased heart rate, palpitations, elevated blood pressure, anxiety, and drastic weight loss.
– When taken as recommended, these drugs are not addictive. But many of those who abuse them are taking significantly higher doses or crushing the pills and snorting them, making them more potent.
– When taken in this way, the medication can become addictive, while also raising the risk of triggering sleep problems, anxiety, and even heart damage.
### How to Help Your Child
Mental health problems among students in the UK are on the rise, with performing well in coursework and exams, keeping up with studying, and managing time labelled as the biggest sources of stress, charities say. In a bid to boost their performance, record numbers of students are turning to study drugs. Dr Miller warned the added stress caused by exam season can lead many students to become reliant on drugs to cope. But she advised parents to help their children “without judgement.” Talk openly about any perceived exam stresses and discuss alternative strategies for improving focus, for example, peer revision or study groups. It may be useful to involve your child’s school and primary care physician if necessary.
