Substance Abuse and ADHD

People diagnosed with ADHD experience the characteristics of impulsive behaviors; without thinking about the consequences. We know this. What we also know is that when we have impulsive behaviors, we can get led down the path of addiction or substance abuse. 

Especially when the pills prescribed to them can be addictive. For this, it is not uncommon for young adults to experience a failure to launch, therefore impacting their path in life, relationships with family members and friends, as well as school or career performance.

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Stimulant medications (such as Ritalin and Adderall) work by raising levels of a chemical messenger called dopamine in the brain, which helps improve focus and attention. These are skills that people with ADHD often find difficult to master. Because stimulants increase dopamine levels, they can cause feelings of euphoria when taken in high doses.

Just like any medication, there is a risk of dependency. If the person understands these risks and takes the medications that they are prescribed, as prescribed, it should not lead to substance abuse. If it does, it is best to talk to someone about it.

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Stimulant medications (such as Ritalin and Adderall) work by raising levels of a chemical messenger called dopamine in the brain, which helps improve focus and attention. These are skills that people with ADHD often find difficult to master.

Because stimulants increase dopamine levels, they can cause feelings of euphoria when taken in high doses. Just like any medication, there is a risk of dependency. If the person understands these risks and takes the medications that they are prescribed, as prescribed, it should not lead to substance abuse. If it does, it is best to talk to someone about it.

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Parents do have the ability to help their children with ADHD avoid substance abuse. Parents could monitor, to prevent misuse. The prescriber also may bring up the fact that the young adult is running out of their medications earlier than they should, which is when action should be taken.

Parents should pay close attention to any change in behavior, have an open line of communication with their child about safe and acceptable behavior, and set a good example by keeping a well-balanced lifestyle. By having an open line of communication, if the young adult is struggling with anything, they should not be afraid to speak openly and honestly about needing help.

Making sure that your child fully understands the risk factors that may come from abusing the medications prescribed is one of the most important ways to avoid substance abuse.

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Substance abusers are at higher risk than non-users for mental health problems, including depression, conduct problems, suicidal thoughts, and suicide. Substance abuse also affects all kinds of relationships. Every relationship that comes face to face with substance abuse is bound to suffer tremendously. Substance abuse does not just hurt the person who is battling it. It impacts all aspects of their life, including friends, family, and maintaining a career, and education.

If you believe that your child is dealing with substance abuse, you should understand that this is a delicate and complex issue and search for the appropriate treatment plans. Full support from the family should be provided.

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