Addiction and ADHD Treatment Center in Texas
Living with ADHD can be challenging on its own, but when combined with addiction, it can feel like an overwhelming cycle that’s hard to break. ADHD is thought of as a condition that adolescents struggle with, but it also affects adults, often leading to difficulties with impulsivity, focus, and emotional regulation. These struggles can drive individuals to turn to substances as a way to cope, inadvertently worsening ADHD symptoms and creating a self-perpetuating loop that impacts every aspect of life, from relationships to career stability.
At Origins Recovery in South Padre Island, Texas, we understand the complexities of managing both ADHD and addiction. Our dual diagnosis treatment programs are designed to address these co-occurring challenges, helping individuals break free from the cycle and reclaim their lives.
What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can impact an individual’s ability to function in social, academic, or professional settings. People with ADHD may struggle to focus, follow through on tasks, or regulate their emotions, leading to frustration, low self-esteem, and difficulty maintaining relationships.
Although ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, it can persist into adulthood, affecting various aspects of life. ADHD is not a result of poor parenting or lack of discipline, but rather a complex condition influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
Types of ADHD
Inattentive-type ADHD is characterized by difficulties with focus, organization, and task completion. Individuals with this type struggle to maintain attention for long periods, often forgetting details and becoming easily distracted. They may appear quiet and less disruptive but still face significant challenges in academic or work settings. Socially, they may miss key aspects of conversations or forget important commitments, which can lead to frustration and low self-esteem.
Although not hyperactive, people with inattentive ADHD often experience internal struggles with staying organized, completing tasks, and remembering important information, impacting both their personal and professional lives.
Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD is marked by restlessness, constant movement, and impulsivity. Those with this type find it hard to sit still and often act without thinking, interrupting others, or making rash decisions. This can lead to disruptions in school, work, and relationships. Impulsivity may also result in risky behaviors, such as overspending or unsafe driving, and challenges in following rules.
The need for constant stimulation and difficulty controlling impulses can cause significant struggles in structured environments, often affecting personal and professional success.
Combined-type ADHD involves a mix of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Individuals with this type experience difficulty with focus, organization, and impulsive behaviors, making it hard to stay on task and regulate behavior. The combination of these challenges can lead to chaos in day-to-day life, affecting work, relationships, and emotional well-being.
Due to the blend of symptoms, those with combined-type ADHD often face greater risks of developing additional mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, major depression, or substance abuse. Treatment for this type requires a comprehensive approach to address both attention and impulse control.
Contact Our Admissions Team Today
Causes and Risk Factors of ADHD
- Genetics: ADHD tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component. Specific genes involved in dopamine regulation have been linked to ADHD.
- Brain Structure and Function: Brain imaging studies have shown differences in the structure and function of the brains of individuals with ADHD. These differences are primarily in areas related to attention, impulse control, and executive functioning.
- Premature Birth or Low Birth Weight: Children born prematurely or with low birth weight are at a higher risk of developing ADHD.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to toxins, such as lead, during pregnancy or early childhood can increase the likelihood of developing ADHD. Substance abuse or smoking during pregnancy is also a significant risk factor.
- Psychosocial Factors: While not direct causes, stressful life events, family dysfunction, and inconsistent parenting can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, making the condition more difficult to manage.
Causes and Risk Factors of Addiction
- Genetics: Genetic predisposition plays a role in addiction. Individuals with a family history of addiction may be at higher risk of developing substance use disorders themselves.
- Mental Health Conditions: People with mental health disorders, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, or PTSD, are more likely to develop addictions. These co-occurring conditions are often linked to self-medication behaviors.
- Environmental Influences: Peer pressure, exposure to drugs and alcohol in early adolescence, or growing up in an environment where substance use is normalized can increase the risk of addiction.
- Trauma and Stress: Adverse childhood experiences, including trauma, abuse, or neglect, can lead individuals to turn to substances as a way to cope with emotional pain.
- Brain Chemistry and Reward System: Addiction alters the brain’s reward system, reinforcing behaviors that lead to pleasure or relief. Over time, this can create a cycle of dependence and compulsive behavior.
The Relationship Between ADHD and Addiction
People with ADHD are also more prone to traits of an “addictive personality,” such as impulsivity, a constant need for stimulation, and emotional dysregulation. These traits make it harder to resist addictive behaviors, fueling the cycle of addiction. Studies suggest genetic factors may contribute to both ADHD and addiction, making integrated care essential for addressing both conditions and breaking the cycle of dependency.
What are the Side Effects of ADHD and Addiction?
Short-term Effects:
- Difficulty focusing and staying on task
- Impulsive decision-making and risky behavior
- Emotional instability, mood swings, and irritability
- Struggles in school, work, and personal relationships
- Increased risk of accidents or injuries due to substance use
Long-term Effects:
- Physical health issues such as liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and neurological damage due to substance abuse
- Increased risk of mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety
- Strained relationships with family, friends, and colleagues
- Job loss, legal issues, and financial instability due to both ADHD and addiction
- Chronic struggles with managing responsibilities and maintaining a stable lifestyle
Overall, the combination of ADHD and addiction can create a cycle that impacts many areas of life, making it essential to address both conditions through comprehensive treatment.
Testimonials
Victoria H
I couldn’t recommend Origins more, I first attended their IOP program, then their residential program in South Padre. I’m writing this today a year and a half sober and going strong. Origins has literally saved my life in more ways than one.
Emily W
The clinicians are knowledgeable and skilled in a way that is always helpful and never harmful. This program brought me lasting healing and freedom.
Mary L
I cannot say enough about Hannah’s House. I entered broken, tired and far more sick than I realized. I was treated with kindness, love, patience and respect by all. I was so frightened to go but sad to leave, that speaks volumes. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all who put me back together, I am eternally grateful.
Jack W
I struggled with my sobriety for over 5 years, but they were able to help me through the 12 steps of AA. I have been sober ever since my experience here. I’ll be hitting 2 years of sobriety in 22 days, thanks to this treatment center. No matter where you go, it’s all about your level of commitment towards gaining a better life ?
Jazmine R
Origins was exactly what I needed. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable, compassionate, and helpful. They come with years of experience and consider each individual they’re helping. If you’re looking for a facility that will truly care as much as you/your parents do, or are desperate for a miracle — I can’t recommend Origins more! ❤️
Diagnosing ADHD and Substance Abuse
Accurately diagnosing both ADHD and substance use disorders (SUDs) can be challenging, as symptoms such as impulsivity, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating often overlap. This is why seeking experienced professionals, like those at Origins Recovery in Texas, is essential for a precise assessment. Clinicians use evidence-based evaluation tools to distinguish between ADHD symptoms and substance-related behaviors, including:
Medical & Psychiatric History: Reviewing past mental health concerns, substance use patterns, and family history
ADHD-Specific Assessments: Evaluating attention span, hyperactivity, and executive functioning
Substance Use Screenings: Identifying the type, frequency, and severity of substance misuse
Once a clear diagnosis is established, a personalized treatment plan can be developed to address both conditions simultaneously, paving the way for sustainable recovery.
ADHD and Substance Abuse Treatment
This particular form of treatment is highly effective since, in many cases, the person’s addiction was brought on by their previously undiagnosed mental health condition, in this case, ADHD. Addressing both conditions concurrently allows both the person in treatment and their therapist to connect the dots as it relates to both their ADHD and addiction in order to treat both issues.
Nationally Recognized & Accredited
Treatment for ADHD and Addiction
Treating ADHD and addiction together is key to successful recovery. Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both conditions simultaneously, rather than separately. Effective treatment includes:
- A thorough evaluation to assess individual needs and develop a personalized plan.
- A combination of therapies like medication management, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and addiction counseling.
- Lifestyle changes, mindfulness, and stress management techniques to enhance overall well-being.
Medication is a common treatment for ADHD and may also be used in treating addiction. For ADHD, stimulants such as Adderall or Ritalin are often prescribed to help manage symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity. Non-stimulant medications, like Strattera, may also be used, particularly in cases where stimulant medications are not effective or well-tolerated.
In addiction treatment, medications such as methadone or buprenorphine may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings for opioids. For alcohol addiction, medications like disulfiram or naltrexone may help reduce the desire to drink.
Therapy plays a central role in managing both ADHD and addiction. Two types of therapy commonly used are:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals change negative thoughts and behaviors related to ADHD and addiction. It teaches coping skills and triggers management.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is effective for emotional dysregulation and impulsivity. It helps individuals build skills to tolerate distress, improve relationships, and increase mindfulness.
Our Rehab Center Can Get Your Life Back On Track
We’re here to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to begin your journey toward healing and a better quality of life.
