Addiction, Impulse and the ADHD Brain

People with ADHD live with a brain that is wired for intensity. Thoughts can race, emotions can surge, and impulses can be harder to rein in. While these traits can bring creativity and energy, they can also make someone more vulnerable to addiction. In fact, research consistently shows that ADHD increases the risk of substance use disorders but that doesn’t mean addiction is inevitable. With understanding, early intervention, and tailored treatment, people with ADHD can break free from the cycle.

The Statistics: ADHD and Substance Use.

The numbers paint a stark picture. Adults with ADHD are almost three times more likely to have a substance use disorder than adults without ADHD, even after adjusting for factors like gender and parental education. Around 15.2% of adults with ADHD experience substance misuse, compared to only 5.6% of those without. Alcohol is one of the most common issues. Research shows that between 33% and 44% of young people with ADHD misuse or become dependent on alcohol and they are 5 to 10 times more likely to develop alcohol addiction than those without ADHD. Other risks include nicotine dependence, drug misuse, and even behavioural addictions such as gambling or sex addiction.

Why the ADHD Brain is More Susceptible.

Impulsivity is one key factor for why those with ADHD are more susceptible to addiction issues. This is because impulsive behaviour can lead to earlier exposure to drugs, meaning that those with ADHD are more likely to experiment with substances while they’re younger. Many adults also have a higher risk of substance abuse as they ‘self-medicate’ to manage their ADHD or associated psychiatric issues. This idea of self-medication is backed by research: according to Rehabs UK, up to 70% of young adults with both ADHD and substance use disorder say they use substances to manage symptoms rather than to ‘get high’. 

The brain’s dopamine pathways also play a role. For some, substances such as nicotine or cocaine can momentarily improve focus and bring a sense of calm, while alcohol or cannabis can slow down intrusive thoughts. Unfortunately, these effects are temporary and often lead to dependency.

It Starts Young.

ADHD-related addiction risk can begin in childhood. One study found that 40% of children with ADHD began using alcohol by age 14.9, compared with 22% of their peers without ADHD. By their mid-20s, rates of alcohol use were similar but those with ADHD were more likely to drink excessively. Teenagers with ADHD are also more likely to have other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression or oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), which can further increase risk.

Do ADHD Medications Cause Addiction?

Some worry that ADHD medications could lead to dependency, potentially exasperating substance abuse issues in people with ADHD. However, the evidence suggests the opposite. A large-scale analysis found that children with ADHD who were treated with medication were less likely to develop a substance use disorder later in life than those who went untreated. This is because effective ADHD treatment can reduce the need for risky self-medication.

The Problem of Late Diagnosis.

Despite the benefits of treatment, many people with ADHD face long waits for diagnosis. And without the right support, the ongoing struggles with organisation, focus, and emotional regulation can make recovery from addiction harder. It’s estimated that 23% of adults in substance use treatment also have ADHD, even though ADHD affects only 3-4% of the general population. This has led to current clinical guidelines which recommend that ADHD and substance use disorders are treated at the same time. 

Hope and Recovery with Beyond Clinics

Therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments can all be part of a successful treatment plan but it’s important that ADHD is factored into addiction recovery programmes from the start. With specialist support, recovery is not just possible – it’s sustainable. Beyond Clinics was founded by a team of people with ADHD, so we know the challenges and how to overcome them. With doctors specialising in addiction psychiatry, Beyond is perfectly positioned to help those with ADHD understand how their addiction is related to their neurodivergence – and how to tackle both concurrently. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD and addiction, getting the right assessment and treatment can be life changing. At Beyond Clinics, our team of psychiatrists, nurse specialists and therapists are here to help you understand your ADHD and create a personalised plan for recovery.