Are people with ADHD at higher risk of alcohol and drug abuse? WebMD examines the link.
Children and teens with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely than other kids to smoke, drink, or use drugs. They experiment with all three at younger ages than those children without ADHD. They are also at a greater risk for developing a substance use disorder. However, just because a child has ADHD does not guarantee he or she will have alcohol or drug issues as a teen. The key for parents is to be aware of the link between the two, step-up prevention efforts at home,...
Teenagers and young adults with ADHD have a higher risk of developing substance abuse, for a host of reasons. Medication for treating ADHD lowers that risk.
Most parents, very understandably, agonize over the decision to treat their child’s ADHD symptoms with stimulant medication. What if the meds change my child’s personality? Will we face major side effects? Do ADHD meds lead to stimulant abuse – or even addiction? · On the last question, the answer is clear: No. What’s more, treatment with ADHD stimulant medication prior to age 9 may actually decrease your child’s likelihood of abusing drugs and alcohol later in life, according to research. ...
By Lawrence Robinson, Melinda Smith, M.A. and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D. ; The link between substance abuse and mental health ; What comes first: Substance abuse or the mental health problem? ; Recognizing a dual diagnosis
Substance use disorders are comorbid with ADHD. Treating addiction and ADD means understanding stimulant risks and benefits, drug use in teens, and more.
Many ADHD adults face substance abuse and addiction at some point in life.
Self harm, intimate partner violence, and substance abuse more common among girls and women with ADHD, causing experts to call for more research.
News about Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Commentary and archival information about Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration from The New York Times.
Conclusions: College campuses should consider programing aimed at identifying ADHD students at risk for developing substance abuse problems and emotional difficulties.