Sluggishness with Stimulants: Adrenal Fatigue Explained

If you have heard of adrenal fatigue before, you may well know about its relation to stimulants and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). 

Adderall is a stimulant that works to boost your levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters in your brain that support focus, calm and restfulness. However, sometimes it can cause you to be so relaxed that you feel drowsy. This condition may be confused with fatigue. Excessive sleepiness can also be caused by Adderall withdrawal.

Although adrenal fatigue has previously been identified as related to taking stimulants for ADHD, it is actually a condition caused by glands that are being overworked and failing to produce enough of important chemicals, including cortisol. 

Your adrenal glands play a very important role in helping your body fight stress, maintain blood pressure, steady metabolism, and mange  your “fight or flight” response. However, problems can occur when your adrenal glands start working in overdrive.

People with ADHD often use stimulant-based ADHD medications, drink caffeine throughout the day, and report experiencing stress in their everyday lives, putting them at risk of adrenal fatigue. 

So what’s the solution? Reduce stress. Easier said than done!

Some ways to reduce stress and fight off adrenal fatigue:

• Take frequent breaks while working

• Meditate for 10 minutes in the morning

• Lower the amount of stimulants you take

• Replenish nutrients that help support balanced adrenals, such as Vitamin C, Magnesium and B6, all of which are found in Recoop