Quick answer: ADHD and substance use often go together. Research estimates that nearly one in four people in treatment for substance use disorders has ADHD. Young adults with ADHD may use substances to quiet restlessness, focus or manage emotions, or misuse stimulant medication. Treating ADHD and substance use together, with careful medication management, improves the chances of recovery.
How we put this guide together
New York Center for Living treats co-occurring ADHD and substance use in adolescents and young adults in Midtown Manhattan. This guide draws on a meta-analysis published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence and on established clinical understanding of ADHD and addiction.
ADHD and substance use at a glance
| Connection | What it can look like |
| Self-medicating | Cannabis or alcohol to calm restlessness |
| Impulsivity | Trying substances earlier and taking more risks |
| Focus | Using stimulants to study or work |
| Emotions | Using to manage frustration or rejection |
| Medication misuse | Taking more than prescribed, or sharing pills |
1. ADHD is common among people with substance use disorders
A meta-analysis of 29 studies found that ADHD is present in almost one out of every four patients with substance use disorders, with an estimated prevalence of 23.1%. Rates were slightly higher among adolescents.
2. Impulsivity raises early risk
The impulsivity and novelty-seeking that can come with ADHD may lead to earlier experimentation and riskier use.
3. Substances can feel like relief
Some young people use cannabis or alcohol to quiet a restless mind or fall asleep. The relief is temporary, and regular use can worsen attention and motivation.
4. Stimulant misuse is common in school and work
Using someone else’s ADHD medication to study or work is common among students and young professionals, and can lead to misuse and dependence.
5. Emotional dysregulation plays a role
Many people with ADHD experience intense frustration, boredom or sensitivity to rejection. Substances can become a way to manage those feelings.
6. Undiagnosed ADHD often surfaces in treatment
Some young adults are first diagnosed with ADHD during addiction treatment, after years of struggling without an explanation.
7. Treatment works best when it addresses both
Treating substance use without addressing ADHD can leave a key driver in place. Integrated treatment includes therapy for both conditions, skills for organization and emotional regulation, and careful psychiatric care.
8. Medication decisions need careful management
ADHD medication can be part of treatment, even for people in recovery, but it requires careful evaluation, monitoring and secure storage. Non-stimulant options may also be considered.
9. Skills build lasting change
Therapies like DBT and CBT help with planning, emotional regulation and impulse control, skills that support both ADHD and recovery.
Learn about New York Center for Living’s treatment for co-occurring ADHD, or call (646) 692-0034.
FAQ
Is ADHD linked to addiction?
Yes. Research estimates that nearly one in four people in treatment for substance use disorders has ADHD. Impulsivity, self-medication and emotional dysregulation all play a role.
Can people with ADHD take stimulant medication in recovery?
Sometimes. It requires careful evaluation and monitoring by a psychiatric provider. Non-stimulant medications are another option. Decisions should be individualized.
Why do people with ADHD use cannabis?
Many say it helps them calm a restless mind or sleep. Over time, regular cannabis use can worsen attention, motivation and memory.
Is misusing ADHD medication dangerous?
Yes. Taking stimulants without a prescription or in higher doses can cause anxiety, sleep problems, heart issues and dependence. Pills from non-pharmacy sources may be counterfeit.
How is co-occurring ADHD and addiction treated?
Integrated treatment addresses both conditions with therapy, skills training, psychiatric care and careful medication management.
