ADHD and Drug Abuse
ADHD medication abuse is a growing issue in America. Researchers report rates of prescription medication for ADHD have risen while the rates of ADHD in children remain the same. The problem does not stop there as a growing number of students are abusing ADHD medication even without a prescription. Unfortunately, most of these drugs are amphetamines which are highly addictive and dangerous.
What is ADHD?
Symptoms of ADHD
- Inability to sit still in calm environments
- Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks
- Excessive movement or talking
- Acting without thinking
- Constantly interrupting conversations
- Lack of a sense of danger
ADHD Medication
ADHD Medication Abuse
For people without ADHD, these medications may lead to addiction when abused. In 2019, research shows misuse rates of Adderall were almost 9% among college women and about 15% among college men. Long-term use of ADHD medication often causes people to develop a tolerance, which requires them to take higher or more frequent doses. In this situation, an individual with a prescription can develop a substance use disorder (SUD). When abusing a stimulant like the drugs mentioned above, recovery treatment is often necessary.
ADHD and Addiction
An individual with an ADHD diagnosis and a substance use disorder is considered to have a co-occurring disorder. Research shows a relationship between addiction and ADHD. It is not uncommon that ADHD and drug use are related. Studies show individuals with ADHD are more likely to become dependent on substances compared to the general population. The following bullet points are statistics and facts that support the linkage between ADHD and drug abuse:
- ADHD is five to ten times more common in adults with an alcohol use disorder.
- About 25% of adults in substance or alcohol treatment have ADHD.
- Children diagnosed with ADHD are more likely to use alcohol in their teens than children without the disorder.
- Young adults with ADHD are more likely to use alcohol excessively compared to their counterparts.
- In general, individuals with ADHD are more likely to start abusing substances at an earlier age.
Co-Occurring Disorders
Co-occurring disorders are sometimes called dual diagnoses or comorbidities. This condition is when an individual faces two mental disorders concurrently. Dual diagnosis often includes a disorder like ADHD and addiction. Other disorders may occur with ADHD, including depression, anxiety disorder, and Tourette’s.
Many people who suffer from a mental health disorder may look to substances to cope with their mental instabilities. Studies show that almost half of people in recovery centers have a co-occurring disorder. Researchers believe this is primarily because of underlying mental illnesses which may lead people to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol.
ADHD medication abuse, unfortunately, leads many to addiction. Common signs and physical symptoms of someone experiencing ADHD and drug abuse may include:
Signs of Co-Occurring Disorders
- Inability to quit alcohol or drugs
- Extreme development of tolerance to substances
- Frequent lying about illegal behaviors or substance use
- Inorderary, compulsive behaviors
Physical Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders
- Extreme mood swings, sometimes affecting their job, relationships, and friendships
- Inordinary fluctuations in mood and energy
- Less time spent with friends and family
- Lack of motivation for hobbies or activities
- Long periods of feeling worthless or hopeless
Treatment Options for ADHD
Treatment for ADHD alone typically involves frontline medication treatment, such as Ritalin and Adderall. People with ADHD may also benefit from other forms of treatment, including:
- Therapy
- Parenting advice
- Diet management
- Lifestyle coaching
- Exercise programs
- ADHD education
- Skill-building workshops
- Stress management strategies
- Nutritional guidance
Treatment Options for ADHD and Drug Abuse
Medical Detox
What is a Detox?
Residential Treatment
Individual Therapy
Individuals dealing with ADHD and drug abuse tend to find individual therapy especially useful. This form of talk therapy allows patients to work one-on-one with an experienced therapist. The therapist will guide their patient through their emotions, behaviors, and challenges that feed into their addiction.
- Guide and support patients during and after treatment
- Help patients to make improvements on their thought processes and behavior
- Motivate patients to bring positive changes in their lives
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Reframe patient’s thinking to a better sense of reality
- Learn coping and problem-solving skills to deal with uncomfortable situations
- Build self-confidence in patients
- Develop a better understanding of how their emotions and behaviors affect other people
Group Therapy
Intensive Outpatient Treatment
Intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) is an alternative to residential treatment for less severe substance use or co-occurring disorders. In our outpatient setting, clients live in off-campus sober living homes while participating in treatment. Treatment is still daily, and clients may engage in any available forms of support.
Aftercare
During treatment, our clients work with specialists to plan a future of sustained recovery. Even once your program has ended, we strive to continue our support which may involve the following: helping with living arrangements, volunteer opportunities, employment, and school. Our aftercare program is dedicated to helping prevent relapse and keep you on the road to recovery.