Whether it’s alcohol or gambling, people can become addicted to anything. Addiction is a powerful disease that doesn’t discriminate.
This is an accepted fact, yet not as much focus is put on how neurodivergent people suffer from and deal with addiction. Neurodiversity and addiction is a topic worth exploring as we as a society become more aware of the autism spectrum, ADHD, dyslexia and other types of neurodiversity.
If a link exists between neurodiversity and addiction, it’s important to know about it if you need treatment and support. Find out more in this article.
What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is a nonmedical umbrella term that describes a brain that functions differently from a neurotypical one. Judy Singer, a sociologist who has been diagnosed with autism, coined the term in 1998. Being neurodivergent means that you might see the world around you differently and process thoughts in different ways than someone who is considered neurotypical.
ADHD, autism, dyslexia and Tourette syndrome are examples of conditions that fall under the neurodiversity umbrella.
As a neurodiverse brain functions differently from a neurotypical one, a neurodivergent person may struggle in social situations, be impulsive, struggle with speech, and make involuntary noises. On the other hand, neurodiverse people can be hyper-focused, incredibly smart, creative, and have a great memory.
Understanding Addiction
Addiction is a chronic condition, often described as a disease, that means a person has a compulsive need to engage in behaviour that negatively impacts their physical and mental health.
There are many types of addictions. Being addicted to drugs and alcohol is a substance addiction, whereas having a behavioural addiction relates to struggling with gambling, gaming, porn and other behaviours rather than something you consume.
Addiction doesn’t have a set cause – many triggers and factors can increase the risk of it occurring. Poor mental health, trauma, growing up around addiction, genetics, and peer pressure can all lead you to addiction.
The Link Between Neurodiversity and Addiction
A person who is neurodivergent may have struggles that neurotypical people don’t have to deal with. Many people use substances and behaviours as a way to cope with things in their lives that they are not equipped to deal with.
Finding it hard to fit in, struggling with sensory issues, needing to manage emotions and craving routine are all issues that neurodivergent people deal with that link to addiction struggles.
A significant link between neurodiversity and addiction is self-medication. Many conditions under the neurodiversity umbrella can be somewhat helped with medication. This can lead to prescription drug addiction and result in trying other substances to help cope. ADHD and substance abuse are often paired together for this very reason.
Autism and substance abuse can also be linked as a Cambridge University study showed that “were nearly nine times more likely than non-autistic peers to report using recreational drugs…to manage unwanted symptoms, including autism-related symptoms”.
ADHD and Addiction
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder. People with it often have difficulties with concentration, are hyperactive and impulsive, can’t stay still and are unable to focus on tasks.
Impulsivity and risk-taking behaviour link ADHD and addiction because people with it may use substances to cope with their symptoms. Being impulsive and less risk-averse means that you might not consider all the consequences of taking substances and forming unhealthy habits.
Studies back up the link – at Bournemouth University, they found that people with ADHD signs were more likely to develop technology addiction.
Autism and Addiction
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the catch-all term to describe a wide range of symptoms. People with autism often take things literally, struggle socially, avoid eye contact, are very interested in certain things and enjoy routine.
In a study by Massachusetts General Hospital, they found that 1 in 5 young adults entering treatment for substance use disorders displayed characteristics of undiagnosed ASD. Autism and addiction are linked as people on the spectrum use substances to mask their symptoms and fit in with others.
Autistic people also use substances to deal with anxiety and other mental health issues or cope with sensory overload. Some people on the spectrum also need routine and engage in repetitive behaviour – engaging in an addiction satisfies these compulsions.
Neurodiversity and Addiction: Tailored Treatment Approaches
Managing concurrent conditions alongside addiction in rehab is vital to the treatment being effective. This form of therapy is known as dual diagnosis. If a rehab recognises neurodiversity, then they can better tailor a treatment approach for you or someone you know.
At Rehab Clinics Group, our therapies and treatments, including CBT and mindfulness, can be adapted for neurodivergent people. Rehab can provide routine and structure that you may respond to.
You may not be comfortable in group therapy, but allowances can be made to accommodate you. A personalised plan will take everything into account, ensuring the environment you enter and work in is suited to your needs.
Building Safe, Supportive Environments
During residential addiction treatment, the environment you are in is as important as the things you learn about your addiction. Being social and forming a community to help you may not come naturally, but it can help.
Parents and loved ones can be involved in your treatment – taking part in family therapy. Group sessions can help you connect with others and show you that you are not alone.
Besides the people who help create a supportive environment, a good rehab centre should strive to create an inclusive and safe space. Sensory-friendly spaces are a must, and coupled with clear communication from staff and a structured routine, a supportive environment can be built.
Early Intervention and Prevention
The best form of prevention is early intervention. To be in a position to step in before addiction takes hold of a neurodiverse person, you need to recognise the early signs. This can be more difficult as sometimes it is hard to recognise symptoms of addiction amongst normal neurodiverse behaviour.
Early signs include:
- Increase irritability
- Changes in sensory sensitivities
- No longer doing preferred activities
- Neglecting personal hygiene
- Change in weight
- Sudden change in friends
By recognising the signs, you can make changes in your life before professional rehabilitation is needed. These changes include:
- Balanced diet and exercise – being physically healthier is proven to make you mentally better. With the right nutrients from a well-balanced diet and physically fitter from regular exercise, you have an excellent foundation to build on.
- New activities – finding something new that interests you can act as a distraction from drugs, alcohol and other unhealthy behaviours. It is also a chance to be more social with new people.
- Education and communication – learning more about neurodiversity and substance abuse will help you see the dangers. You should be encouraged to ask questions and engage in honest communication with your family and friends about issues.
Neurodiversity and Addiction Resources and Support
If you are struggling with neurodiversity and addiction, the help is available. At Rehab Clinics Group, we can provide you access to many centres that employ dedicated staff who deliver industry-leading addiction treatment.
For more information about our services, call us at 08004700382 or text HELP to 83222.