One of the hard truths of mental illness is that having one condition places you at greater risk for a second condition, and it is especially true when it comes to substance abuse. Many pieces of research have shown a symbiotic relationship between a mental health concern and the likelihood of substance abuse. When the illness goes untreated, the chances of substance use only increase.
This is important given the number of American youths being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is estimated that 7% of youth aged between 3 and 17 are living with ADHD. Anywhere from 17 to 45% of adults with the condition abuse alcohol, and another 9 to 30% of them abuse drugs. Study after study reveals that having Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorderputs a person at risk for abusing substances sooner than the general population, with the problem often following them all their life. In this regard, videogametherapy for ADHD has been working quite well since the teenagers seem to enjoy the games with keen interest.
One of the reasons that Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disordercan lead to substance abuse in the first place is the way in which the condition makes it hard for the person to meet expectations in school. The child who struggles academically grows up with a feeling of low self-esteem with anxieties about his/her ability to perform in adulthood. Low self-esteem is a known risk factor for substance abuse, but these kids also often face social stigma, and that can be another driver. Feeling worthless and isolated are common struggles among those who misuse and abuse substances.
It is a question of grave matter that if it should be medicated or not. It is often observed that parents of ADHD kids are at times have conflicts about whether or not to use medication to treat the symptoms of ADHD. Many parents worry that by giving a child drugs to control mood and performance, they will create a culture of substance use. In reality, studies have shown that kids are far more likely to abuse substances when their Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorderremains untreated.
Although a key part of ADHD treatment, medication is not the only way to help kids overcome the symptoms of their condition. Exercise is a natural mood elevator and can increase a person’s ability to focus – two common problems for the child with ADHD. A low carbohydrate diet that is nutrient-rich can also promote feelings of well-being.
Depending on the type of substance abuse, teens with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorderdonot need to go off their medications to overcome their improper use of drugs. Drug rehab programs that focus on cognitive behavioral therapy and education about their illness can give teens the information they need to understand what’s behind their desire to use drugs.Boosting regular therapy with a healthier lifestyle can open a new door of hope for teens with ADHD. Risk for substance abuse does not need to equal certainty of drug or alcohol abuse.