Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition typically diagnosed during childhood which may last into adulthood. The disorder is usually associated with difficulty paying attention, staying still, coping with boredom, completing tedious tasks and controlling impulsive behaviors.
Individuals with ADHD tend to be overly active and may be more inclined to use drugs or alcohol as a way of coping with the symptoms they’re suffering. Others may be prescribed stimulants as a treatment option and this can lead to a vicious cycle of substance abuse.
The link between ADHD and substance abuse
Several studies have revealed a strong connection between ADHD, drug abuse and alcoholism. Findings include:
- ADHD is five to 10 times more common among adult alcoholics than it is in people without the condition. Among adults receiving substance abuse treatment, the rate of ADHD is about 25%.
- In one study, it was found that 14% of children aged between 15 and 17 with ADHD had problems with alcohol abuse or dependency as adults.
- Another study found that at a mean age of 14.9 years, 40% of children with ADHD began using alcohol, compared to 22% of children without an ADHD diagnosis. This is a strong predictor of alcohol and substance abuse in adulthood.
Why are people with ADHD more likely to abuse substances?
Common symptoms of ADHD include being more impulsive and having behavioral problems. This may make someone more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol because of the problems it may cause at school, home or with friends or family. For example, conduct problems such as lying, stealing and skipping school are more common among children with ADHD and also contribute to the development of substance use.
Both ADHD and alcoholism tends to run in families and researchers have pointed to common genes shared between the two conditions. A child suffering with ADHD who has an alcoholic parent for example, is more likely to develop a problem with alcohol.
There is also concern that the stimulant drugs which are prescribed to treat ADHD could contribute to someone becoming more likely to abuse substances. The reason for this is because stimulant medications work by raising the levels of a dopamine in the brain. This helps to improve focus and attention and can also create a ‘high’ that makes people want more. Because cocaine and other street drugs also raise dopamine levels, there has been concern that ADHD stimulants might be similarly addictive.
One particular medication for ADHD, Ritalin, increases energy and focus which has led some people to refer to it as the “poor man’s cocaine.” Studies show that while abusing Ritalin can lead to dependence, when taken carefully and as prescribed, it’s less likely to be addictive in either children or adults.
Addiction and ADHD treatment
Addiction and ADHD can be treated successfully and simultaneously through a dual diagnosis program. It’s important to treat both disorders at once because the cycle of frustration often present with ADHD can lead to self-medication with drugs or alcohol.
A dual diagnosis program focuses on:
- The core components of a successful recovery program. This typically includes counselling, family therapy, group therapy and holistic therapy.
- Modifying the destructive thoughts and behaviors which encourage substance abuse.
- Building self-esteem and promoting internal motivation.
- Controlling the symptoms of ADHD through behavioral modifications and medication therapy.
- Identifying substance abuse triggers and learning how to manage impulses.
- Educating partners and family members about ADHD and substance abuse facts.
If you or a loved one has ADHD and is also struggling with substance abuse, please feel free to contact us about the substance abuse counselling programs we offer and we will be more than happy to help.
