One of the leading causes of addiction is having an underlying mental illness. Many hear this and think of disorders like depression and anxiety. The reality is that many people who struggle with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), are also prone to substance abuse. ADHD is a difficult mental health disorder to live with, and some people try to manage it with drugs or alcohol. Unfortunately, this can lead to trying to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol, and this can lead to an addiction.
There are a wide range of causes for ADHD, and sometimes it’s over-diagnosed. This disorder can be genetic, but some studies also show data that points to issues while a person is in their mother’s womb. Some research suggests that certain medications the mother is on or smoking can contribute to ADHD. Others may just have brains that function differently. The prefrontal cortex of the brain is responsible for executive functions like attention and impulse control, so when it doesn’t function properly, it can lead to symptoms of ADHD.
Some of the symptoms include:
Absent-mindedness
Short attention span
Easily bored
Mood swings
If you’re struggling with substance abuse and ADHD, just know that help is available. When you come to a dual diagnosis treatment facility like Enlightened Solutions, we’ll help treat your ADHD as well as your potential addiction to drugs or alcohol. Through treatment, you’ll discover that you don’t need substances to manage your symptoms of ADHD or to deal with the stresses of everyday life. The treatment process starts with helping you to detox from the drugs or alcohol safely, so give us a call today at 833-233-7336.
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