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Depressants vs Stimulants

What Are Stimulants?

Stimulants include an array of substances that can be obtained legally and illegally. All stimulants increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels, exciting the brain and nervous system. Legal or prescription stimulants include Adderall, Ritalin, Conserta, and other medications. The most commonly used illegal stimulants include Cocaine, Crack, and Methamphetamine (Meth). Stimulant misuse can lead to addiction, withdrawal, overdose, and death, whether obtained legally or illegally. If you or a loved one are seeking treatment for stimulant abuse, consider Granite Recovery Centers.

What Are Depressants?

According to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), depressants are prescribed medications, including sedatives, hypnotics, and tranquilizers. These medications slow down brain activity. Central nervous system (CNS) depressants are often prescribed to treat anxiety, panic, acute stress, and sleep disorders. Sedatives slow the nervous system enabling sleep for insomniacs. Tranquilizers help with anxiety.

Depressants vs Stimulants. How Do They Affect Our Bodies?

Depressants and stimulants affect the brain and nervous system but in vastly different ways. Depressants or “downers” inhibit brain activity and the central nervous system by increasing the production of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This lowers the brain’s levels of awareness and increases feelings of relaxation, drowsiness, and even euphoria. Conversely, stimulants, commonly called “uppers,” increase dopamine levels in the brain. Increasing the activity of this neurotransmitter sends the nervous system into overdrive, making the user feel supercharged, energetic, focused, and confident to the point of feeling invincible.

Is One More Addictive Than The Other?

While everyone reacts to substances differently, depressants and stimulants are extremely addictive if used for a prolonged period. Misusing either type of drug greatly increases the chance of addiction, which is why these drugs are prescribed for short-term issues. For example, your doctor may have prescribed Xanax to manage a panic or anxiety disorder, but after being on the medication for several years, your mind and body have become dependent on it to cope with everyday life.

Are Treatment Modalities Different?

Granite Recovery Centers integrates a comprehensive 12-Step curriculum with evidence-based clinician practices and our clients’ personal experiences. We understand that each client’s road to recovery is different. Our treatment staff works together to create and implement individualized treatment plans to meet each client’s specific needs.

Recovery with Depressants vs. Stimulants

Granite Recovery Centers is here to help you or your family member recover from substance addiction. With several locations throughout picturesque New England, we facilitate your entire journey back to life without active addiction. Here are some programs we offer:

Our comprehensive programming extends from detoxification through sober living and relapse prevention. We have you covered with medical and holistic detox options if you require detoxification. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in an emergency.

You have been out of control long enough. While we cannot promise that the road to recovery will be easy, we can promise that it will be worth it. Contact Granite Recovery Centers to put us to the test. We’ll live up to our slogan: “Real People, Real Recovery.” Call us today.

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