As someone who has been taking Adderall for a while, I am offended by people who use the drug just to “get through exams” and by people who believe that is all the drug is used for. People who use stimulants as a “study drug” are making it harder for those of us who are prescribed the drug. There are so many regulations now surrounding stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin — such as the amount of the drug that can be prescribed, the ease of prescription and overall access to the medication — and this almost is directly a result of the widespread abuse.

Having been diagnosed with depression over four years ago — having tried a slew of antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and others — I have found that Adderall is the only thing that gives me enough energy and the ability to concentrate to make it through my classes and day-to-day activities. This drug has been a lifesaver for me. It is a shame people abuse the drug when there are so many of us out there that truly benefit from it.