Substance Abuse and ADHD

Children with ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) are more likely to engage in substance abuse compared to their peers without ADHD, according to the most recent edition of the journalPediatrics. Children with ADHD and other behavioral health issues are at even higher risk of developing substance use disorders, the report said.

But there is hope: Medication and behavioral therapy for ADHD may actually decrease the risk of developing a substance use disorder, the new study indicates. This is reassuring for parents who hesitate to give their children daily medication because they fear it will cause a substance abuse problem.

Medication and psychotherapy are important components in ADHD treatment. Both can reduce symptoms and improve functioning. Furthermore, therapy can help to reduce the risk of developing substance abuse.

Strong family relationships are very important, too. Parents who know their children, know where they are and who they spend time with, and feel comfortable talking to them are in a better position to recognize and address concerns.

Every parent should watch for indications of drug abuse, whether a child has ADHD or not. Signs include:

• sudden and severe mood changes;
• changes in appearance;
• changes in sleeping and eating;
• a drop in grades;
• friends who are not a good influence;
• breaking curfew or other house rules; and
• secretive behavior.

Mothers and fathers, rest assured: ADHD medication does not lead to substance abuse. If you have concerns, address them with your child’s health care provider. For treatment of symptoms relating to ADHD, contact the Cohen Children’s Medical Center’s Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics.

This post was written by Jill Sonnenklar, PhD, senior psychologist in development and behavioral pediatrics at Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York.

For more North Shore-LIJ Health Blog posts, go to http://blog.northshorelij.com/ 

Contents of the health blog are the property of North Shore-LIJ Health System and are provided as a health resource for consumers, health care professionals and members of the media. The medical content on the North Shore-LIJ Health Blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for consultation with your physician regarding diagnosis, treatment or any other form of specific medical advice. These materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "North Shore-LIJ Health System," "North Shore-LIJ," "northshorelij.com," "VivoHealth," their related entities and logos are trademarks of the North Shore-LIJ Health System. Copyright © 2011 North Shore-LIJ Health System. All rights reserved.