The Link Between ADHD and Alcohol, Risks & Interactions

What is ADHD?

One of the most prevalent teenage mental health illnesses is attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with estimates of its incidence in adolescents ranging from 5 to 11%. Despite being mostly assumed to affect children, adults can also be diagnosed with ADHD.

Both children and adults are affected differently by this condition. Most people occasionally display some inattentive behavior, even those without ADHD. However, those with ADHD exhibit more severe inattention and impulsive behavior. Usually more frequent, the behavior makes it difficult for the person to carry out everyday tasks at home, school, work, and social environments.

Skip To:

• What is ADHD?
• Risk Factors for Alcohol and ADHD
• ADHD Medication and Alcohol
• Alcoholism and ADHD Symptoms
• ADHD and Alcohol Abuse
• ADHD Alcoholism Treatment

Learn More:

• Early Signs of Alcoholism
• ADHD Treatment

37%

37% of alcohol abusers also have at least one serious mental illness, including ADHD.

Source: NIDA

Risk Factors for Alcohol and ADHD

Even though ADHD and alcohol have no direct interactions, alcohol has long been identified as a risk factor.

Risk factors for alcoholism and ADHD may include:

• Previous alcohol use – Early alcohol use and regular or intense alcohol use were linked to more severe childhood ADHD.
• Increased risk of heavy drinking – Early-life binge drinking is also more prevalent among those with ADHD.
• More sensitive to the effects of ADHD and alcohol – Even when asked to do tasks that generally lessen impairment, persons with ADHD alcohol sensitivity were likelier to display symptoms of alcohol impairment.
• More significant amounts of ADHD and alcohol symptoms – The impaired judgment brought on by alcohol may worsen ADHD symptoms like impulsivity and difficulty focusing. Long-term alcohol consumption is also linked to speech, memory, decision-making, and cognition issues. These outcomes might worsen ADHD symptoms.
• Alcohol use disorder risk is increased – A substantial risk factor for the emergence of alcohol consumption disorder in childhood ADHD.

Alcoholism and ADHD Symptoms

ADHD may be present when someone struggles to concentrate on one task, cannot sit still, is constantly engaged in something, or rarely completes things they start. Other external influences, such as alcohol or other substances, which a drink might bring on, can also contribute to losing focus. The person should be examined for ADHD and alcoholism if they suffer symptoms that interfere with their regular lives.

You should discuss your alcohol and drug use with your doctor if you have ADHD. Your doctor can advise you on options that will lessen your likelihood of abusing alcohol.

Additionally, if you or a loved one exhibits any of the following signs of substance misuse, you should seek medical attention:

• Strong cravings for alcohol
• A desire to take alcohol regularly
• Increased tolerance to alcohol’s effects
• Keeping a supply of alcohol on hand at all times
• Spending a lot of time and money on drinks
• Avoiding responsibilities or social activities
• Drinking, despite the problems it causes
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking

People with ADHD and alcoholism may also use other substances, not just alcohol. According to certain studies, ADHD raises the likelihood of substance abuse, dependence, and use. This connection relates to typical ADHD symptoms like impulsivity, hyperactivity, and disturbed emotional regulation. All three signs contribute to substance use, making people with ADHD more susceptible to addiction.

Treatment for someone with ADHD and alcohol use disorder must address both issues. Typically, detoxification and becoming sober are necessary before doing this. To lower your risk of addiction, your doctor may recommend long-acting stimulants or non-stimulants for ADHD.

ADHD Alcoholism Treatment

We Level Up NJ offers a comprehensive treatment program, including evidence-based and cognitive behavioral therapy for people suffering from ADHD and alcoholism. Depending on how severely their alcohol addiction has affected them, certain people with drug use disorders may be eligible for treatment at a specialized institution like ours.

We partner with highly qualified addiction specialists to provide clients with the guidance and support they need to give up drinking and maintain their long-term health and sobriety. We provide dual-diagnosis treatment programs for those suffering from these diseases and co-occurring mental health conditions.

If you are suffering from alcohol addiction, contact us to discuss your treatment options and learn how we can support you as you start your recovery. We will be there for you at every step. With the help of our program for medically assisted detox, We Level Up NJ offers correct therapy and 24-hour medical staff to aid in your recovery. Call us immediately to speak with a treatment expert and regain your life. Our counselors will address your worries because they are aware of your circumstances.