Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety are separate mental health conditions, but they often occur together. Many people diagnosed with ADHD are prescribed Adderall to improve focus and impulse control—yet anxiety is one of the medication’s most commonly reported side effects.
In fact, research shows that nearly 50% of adults with ADHD also experience an anxiety disorder. If you’re managing both conditions, the right treatment approach can reduce anxiety symptoms while still supporting ADHD management.
Key Takeaways
- Adderall can cause or worsen anxiety by stimulating the nervous system and activating the brain’s fear response, especially in people with existing anxiety disorders.
- Managing Adderall-related anxiety may involve lifestyle changes, therapy, medication adjustments, or treating co-occurring ADHD and anxiety together.
- Misuse of Adderall increases the risk of addiction, anxiety, and serious physical and psychological effects, making professional treatment like First City Recovery essential for recovery.
What is Adderall?
Question: What is Adderall?
Answer: Adderall is a combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. These are central nervous stimulants that sharpen focus and reduce impulsivity by increasing the dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1996.
Adderall is often prescribed to treat ADHD or narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that makes you feel very drowsy during the day. Individuals with narcolepsy have a hard time staying awake for long periods of time and may fall asleep suddenly.
Adderall is a sympathomimetic drug, which means that it promotes the fight-or-flight response among other nervous system responses. Like other drugs in its class, Adderall can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly or misused.
The Link Between Adderall and Anxiety
The same brain systems Adderall targets to improve focus are also involved in anxiety responses. Amphetamines can stimulate the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for detecting threats and triggering fear-based reactions.
When the amygdala becomes overactive, the body may interpret normal situations as dangerous, causing anxiety symptoms such as:
- Nervousness or restlessness
- Muscle tension
- Excessive sweating
- Rapid breathing or hyperventilation
- Difficulty concentrating
For some individuals, these symptoms appear shortly after starting Adderall or increasing the dosage.
Signs and Symptoms of Adderall-Induced Anxiety
Adderall, a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), can sometimes lead to serious complications, including anxiety.
At First City Recovery Center, we understand that mental health issues like anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and bipolar disorder often intersect with substance use disorders, making it essential to provide individualized treatment programs for each person’s unique needs.
The signs and symptoms of Adderall-induced anxiety can differ from one individual to another, but some common symptoms include a racing heart, excessive sweating, trembling, and persistent feelings of nervousness or fear. In more severe cases, individuals may experience panic attacks, which can be overwhelming and interfere with daily life and overall well-being.
Other symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, irritability, restlessness, and trouble sleeping. These symptoms can be especially challenging for those already managing other mental health conditions or eating disorders.
At our city recovery center, located at 317 W Jefferson St in Kokomo, Indiana, we take a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment and mental health care. Our care team—including admissions coordinators, case managers, and licensed therapists—works closely with clients and their family members to develop tailor-made, individualized treatment programs here in First City Recovery Center.
We offer multiple levels of care, including medical detox, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs, ensuring that each client receives the support they need at every stage of recovery.
Therapies such as talk therapy, group therapy, and support groups are integrated into our treatment programs to help clients process their experiences, manage anxiety, and build healthy coping skills.
Our Visible Recovery program provides ongoing support and connection, helping clients maintain their progress and achieve long-term recovery. We also recognize the importance of family expectations and strive to involve loved ones in the recovery process whenever possible.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing Adderall-induced anxiety or other mental health issues, seeking professional help is crucial. At First City Recovery in Kokomo, Indiana, our admissions process is designed to be straightforward and supportive, and we accept a variety of insurance benefits to make treatment accessible. Our goal is to provide a safe environment where clients can address their substance use and mental health conditions, regain control of their lives, and achieve lasting well-being.
Don’t let anxiety or addiction hold you back. Contact First City Recovery Center in Kokomo today to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs and how we can help you or your loved one on the path to long-term recovery and overall well-being. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way, from your first call to visible recovery and beyond.
Who Should Be Cautious When Taking Adderall?
The risk of anxiety and other side effects increases when Adderall is misused or taken in higher doses than prescribed. Before starting any stimulant medication, it’s important to tell your doctor if you have a history of:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Liver or kidney disease
- Glaucoma
- Anxiety or panic disorders
Your healthcare provider can help determine whether Adderall is safe—or if alternative treatments may be more appropriate.
10 Ways to Manage Anxiety Caused by Adderall
If Adderall is triggering anxiety, there are steps you can take to manage symptoms effectively.
Never ignore new or worsening anxiety. Your provider may adjust your dosage, prescribe an anti-anxiety medication, or recommend therapy.
Gut health plays a role in mental health. Limiting sugary and processed foods while increasing omega-3s, vitamin D, and anti-inflammatory nutrients may help reduce anxiety.
Caffeine can worsen anxiety and overstimulate the nervous system—especially when combined with Adderall.
Poor sleep increases the risk of anxiety and depression. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule supports nervous system regulation.
Aerobic activities like walking, swimming, or cycling release endorphins that naturally reduce stress and anxiety.
Controlled breathing helps calm the nervous system and counteracts the fight-or-flight response.
Soft or instrumental music can help lower stress levels and promote relaxation.
Massage, progressive muscle relaxation, or warm baths can reduce tension associated with anxiety.
Even brief exposure to nature has been shown to reduce sympathetic nervous system activity and anxiety.
Essential oils like ylang-ylang, sweet orange, and grapefruit may help promote calmness when inhaled or applied topically.
When Anxiety Is a Separate Condition
Sometimes anxiety is not caused by ADHD or Adderall but exists as a separate diagnosis. First City Recovery Center treats a variety of mental health diagnoses, including anxiety and depression. In these cases, both conditions must be treated simultaneously. Effective treatment options may include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Relaxation and mindfulness techniques
- Medication management
- Lifestyle and stress-management strategies
- Mental health treatment
Is Adderall Addictive?
Yes—Adderall can be addictive, particularly when taken in higher doses or without a prescription. Over time, tolerance can develop, leading some individuals to take more than prescribed to achieve the same effects.
Adderall misuse is especially common among teens and young adults who use it to enhance focus, stay awake, or experience a euphoric “high.”
Warning Signs of Adderall Abuse
- Increased confidence or fearlessness
- Hyperactivity or impulsivity
- Obsessive focus on productivity
Although the behavioral changes may be neutral or even helpful, the physical effects of Adderal misuse are usually harmful such as:
- Dry mouth
- Headaches
- Digestive issues
- Tremors
- Weight loss or malnutrition
- Chronic anxiety or depression
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Panic attacks
- Suicidal thoughts
- Mania or nightmares
- Doctor shopping
- Crushing or snorting pills
- Spending excessive time obtaining or using the drug
- Neglecting hygiene, work, school, or relationships
Along with Adderall as their top priority, other symptoms include not taking care of important responsibilities. This includes obligations related to community, family, work, school, or themself. And as the addiction gets worse they may begin to neglect their personal grooming and hygiene. Similar to other types of substance use disorders, Adderall addiction can result in disregarding responsibilities like:
- Daily household chores
- Important family and social occasions
- Presentations at work
- School exams
Help for Adderall Anxiety and Addiction at First City Recovery
If you’re struggling with anxiety related to Adderall—or facing stimulant addiction—First City Recovery Center in Kokomo, Indiana, offers comprehensive, compassionate care. Our admissions coordinator will guide new patients through the intake process, provide initial assessments, and facilitate a smooth entry into the treatment program.
We provide:
- Medical detox services (offer detox) with 24/7 supervision, designed to manage withdrawal symptoms safely and comfortably
- Inpatient (offer inpatient) and outpatient drug and alcohol treatment programs, including a specialized intensive outpatient program for those needing structured support without 24/7 supervision
- Dual diagnosis care for co-occurring mental health conditions, treating a wide range of mental health diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and schizophrenia
- A separate mental health program for mood and thought disorders
- A full continuum of care, from detox to outpatient support, with individualized treatment programs tailored for each person
- A transitional living facility for patients post-treatment and a Visible Recovery community for alumni to participate in post-treatment activities
- A veterans program supporting veterans with addiction and mental health concerns
- In-depth biopsychosocial assessments to determine the best level of care for each patient
- A variety of therapies, including individual, group, and family therapy
Our detox process involves three steps: intake (where medical professionals assess the person’s health and substance use history), stabilization (to protect individuals from harm and alleviate withdrawal symptoms), and treatment preparation (to ready patients for ongoing recovery). Detox is not a treatment in itself; it is the first step toward a comprehensive treatment program and recovery.
Treating both addiction and anxiety together is essential for long-term recovery. Our licensed addiction specialists and mental health professionals are equipped to support you every step of the way, helping clients become healthy members of their communities after recovery.
First City Recovery Center accepts various insurance policies, including Cigna, Aetna, and United Healthcare.
Don’t let stigma stop you from getting help. Contact First City Recovery today to learn how we can help you reclaim your health and stability.
