The Correlation Between the Misuse of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Medication and Depression Among College Students: An Integrative Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity. The prolonged misuse of ADHD medication can have adverse effects including drug seeking behaviors and suicidal etiology with documentation of depression and suicide attempts.

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine the adverse effects of ADHD medication on college students who misuse it.

Methods: The research design chosen is an integrative literature review intended to explore the correlation between the misuse of ADHD medication and depression among college students.

Results: The results showed that approximately 50% of frequent or non-oral, non-medical use of prescription stimulants by college students reported depressed mood. Also, those who reported feeling sad, depressed, or considered suicide were 1.22-1.38 times more likely to report stimulant use.

Conclusion: Results were not consistent across all the studies included in this literature review, it was determined that more research must be done to explore this further. Nurses must educate young adults on the dangers and adverse effects that misusing prescription stimulants, or any drug, can have on the human body. There is still a question whether the non-medical use of prescription stimulants causes depressive symptoms or if the depressive symptoms that the person experiences are what causes this person to use prescription stimulants

Keywords: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, medication, college students