ADHD people would tend to feel the effects of products with greater intensity, which would make them more easily fall into addiction.
- 3.5 to 5.6% of school children suffer from ADHD in France, according to the Haute Autorité de Santé.
- The average age of diagnosis by a specialist is between 9 and 10 years.
Attention Deficit Disorder with or without Hyperactivity, ADHD, multiplies the risk by three of developing an addiction compared to the general population. The explanation lies not only in the search for self-medication, but also for a much greater effect of the substance.
What drives someone with ADHD to use?
ADHD is characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity, as well as attention disorders that push the person to move from one thought to another quickly, which can be very disabling in everyday life. One of the primary reasons for using substances, especially cannabis, alcohol or tobacco, is the need to calm thoughts. In addition, certain substances such as cocaine for example or amphetamines can help to better channel and therefore bring a benefit promoting the risk of dependence.
Because of their disorders, the children, adolescents or adults concerned thus feel an even greater effect and above all a benefit sometimes preventing them from going to health professionals in order to have appropriate treatment.
Addiction: what to do when a loved one is affected?
Talking about addictions from an early age can inform children and adolescents affected by ADHD about their vulnerability. As parents, take a non-judgmental, listening position to help your child with healthcare professionals better manage their symptoms and get to know themselves.
Find out more: “ADD/H in children – practical advice for hyperactive children” by Elizabeth Sophie Wright and Christelle Graciot.