ADHD and addiction often show up together — and not by coincidence. Research has shown that people with ADHD are more likely to struggle with substance use, especially when the condition is undiagnosed or untreated.Â
However, understanding why this connection exists can help reduce shame, improve treatment outcomes, and support long-term recovery. In this post, we’ll break down how ADHD can increase the risk of addiction, and what it really means when the two overlap.
Does ADHD Cause Addiction?
ADHD doesn’t directly cause addiction — but it can make someone more vulnerable to it. The symptoms, emotional strain, and neurochemical imbalances associated with ADHD can increase the chances of substance use becoming a coping mechanism.
But here’s what’s important to know: when both conditions are recognized and treated together, recovery becomes much more manageable.
Why ADHD Increases the Risk for Addiction
While ADHD doesn’t cause addiction, it can create conditions that make substance use more likely — especially when someone’s trying to manage symptoms on their own or navigate daily life without the right support.
Impulsivity and Risk-Taking Behavior
One of the core symptoms of ADHD is impulsivity — acting quickly without fully thinking through the consequences. This can lead to trying substances at an earlier age, using more than intended, or making decisions in the moment that feel good but have long-term consequences. People with ADHD may also be more likely to take risks when they’re bored, restless, or overstimulated.
Self-Medication
Many people with ADHD struggle with restlessness, anxiety, frustration, or difficulty focusing. Without a diagnosis or effective treatment, it’s common to turn to substances — not to get high, but to feel “normal” or find relief. Alcohol, marijuana, stimulants, and other substances may feel like they help calm the mind or improve focus in the short term, even though they often make symptoms worse over time.
Co-Occurring Conditions
ADHD often overlaps with other mental health conditions, like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. These additional challenges can add to the emotional strain and increase the risk of turning to substances to cope. When someone’s dealing with multiple conditions at once — especially without treatment — addiction can develop more quickly and become harder to manage.
Dopamine Dysregulation
ADHD is closely tied to the brain’s dopamine system. Dopamine plays a key role in motivation, focus, and the ability to feel pleasure. In people with ADHD, the brain often struggles to regulate dopamine, which can lead to constantly seeking stimulation or reward. Substances that spike dopamine levels can feel especially appealing — and addictive — because they temporarily fill in what the brain is missing.
Treating ADHD and Addiction as a Dual Diagnosis
When ADHD and addiction overlap, both need to be treated at the same time. Otherwise, one can fuel the other — and recovery becomes a cycle of progress and setbacks. Dual diagnosis treatment helps address the root causes of both conditions so a person can build real, lasting stability.
Here are the most common and effective treatment options, along with what to keep in mind for each.
Therapy That Addresses Both Conditions
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective tools for treating both ADHD and substance use. It helps people build coping skills, manage impulsive behaviors, and identify unhelpful thought patterns that can lead to relapse or self-sabotage. Other therapy models, like DBT or trauma-informed therapy, may be added based on personal history or co-occurring mental health conditions.
What to consider:
Make sure your therapist understands how ADHD symptoms can affect recovery. This includes challenges with attention, time management, and emotional regulation. Treatment should focus on building real-life skills, not just managing cravings.
Medication (When Appropriate)
Medication can be helpful for managing ADHD symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and mood swings. In some cases, stimulant medications are prescribed — but for people in recovery, non-stimulant options like atomoxetine (Strattera) or guanfacine are often considered first.
What to consider:
Medication should always be managed by a provider who understands your addiction history. Open, ongoing conversations about side effects, cravings, and treatment goals are essential. Medication isn’t a quick fix — it works best when combined with therapy and structure.
Group Support
Connecting with others who understand both ADHD and addiction can make recovery feel less isolating. Group therapy, 12-step programs, or other peer support options offer space to be honest, get encouragement, and learn from shared experiences.
What to consider:
Look for groups or meetings that acknowledge dual diagnosis challenges. Some traditional recovery groups may not fully understand ADHD, so it’s okay to seek out more tailored or supportive environments that meet your needs.
Routine and Structure Building
People with ADHD often struggle with consistency, and recovery depends on it. Building daily routines helps reduce impulsivity, increase follow-through, and create a sense of stability. Structure supports both ADHD symptom management and addiction recovery.
What to consider:
Don’t aim for a rigid schedule overnight. Start with small, repeatable habits like waking up at the same time or planning your meals. Tools like planners, checklists, or phone reminders can help turn structure into something sustainable, not overwhelming.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment Programs
Some treatment centers offer programs specifically designed for people with co-occurring mental health conditions and substance use disorders. These programs bring together medical care, therapy, medication management, and daily support under one roof.
What to consider:
Make sure the program offers true dual diagnosis care — not just addiction treatment with a mental health add-on. Ask if the staff has experience treating ADHD and if treatment plans are individualized based on both diagnoses.
Get Support That Understands You
If you or someone you love is dealing with both ADHD and addiction, you’re not alone — and you’re not stuck. At Northpoint Recovery, we specialize in dual diagnosis care that treats both conditions together. We understand how ADHD symptoms can affect recovery, and we’re here to help you build a plan that actually works in real life.
Reach out today to learn how our programs can help you manage symptoms, stay sober, and move forward with the structure and support you need.
FAQ: ADHD and Addiction
1. Can untreated ADHD lead to long-term substance use issues?
Yes. When ADHD symptoms go unmanaged for long periods, people often develop their own ways to cope — and substance use is a common one. Without proper treatment, it can become a long-term pattern that’s harder to break over time.
2. Is it safe to take ADHD medication in recovery?
It can be, depending on the medication and your personal history. Non-stimulant medications are often preferred in early recovery, but some people may use stimulant medications safely under close supervision. The key is working with a provider who understands both ADHD and addiction.
3. What if ADHD symptoms get worse after I stop using?
That’s common. Many people don’t realize how much they were using substances to manage symptoms. When the substance is removed, ADHD symptoms can feel more intense at first. The good news is that with the right support, things often improve as the brain and body adjust.
4. Can ADHD be diagnosed during addiction treatment?
Yes, and in many cases, that’s when it finally gets diagnosed. A full assessment can be done during treatment once the initial detox and stabilization period has passed. Getting the right diagnosis is a key step in building a recovery plan that actually works.
5. Do I need a dual diagnosis program, or can I just focus on one issue at a time?
Trying to treat ADHD and addiction separately often leads to setbacks. A dual diagnosis program helps you understand how the two conditions affect each other, so you’re not left treating half the problem. When both are addressed together, recovery is more stable and more sustainable.