ADHD Treatment

What co-occurring ADHD means

ADHD affects more than just focus. It impacts your ability to organize thoughts and projects, manage emotions, and follow through with responsibilities. Having ADHD and a substance use disorder (SUD) at the same time means you have co-occurring disorders. When you're ready to start your recovery from substance use disorder and have ADHD, it will make your treatment and journey forward more complex.

The links between ADHD and substance use

Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD make people more vulnerable to substance use. Things like impulsivity, a drive for stimulation, and difficulties managing emotions can all end up as easy triggers for turning to drugs or alcohol. Many people with ADHD try to “self-medicate” these symptoms with substances. They might try to ease anxiety with a few drinks or boost concentration by abusing stimulants—prescription or illicit. But this is a short-term solution that often starts a cycle: negative thoughts arise, someone turns to substances for temporary relief. Drug and alcohol use becomes the way to cope with emotions, but over time, someone will need more substances, and addiction develops.

As substance use increases, it becomes harder to distinguish ADHD-related struggles from those caused by addiction. The good news: with the right support, this cycle can be broken.

Signs you may be facing both ADHD and addiction

If you recognize these signs, there's a new way forward. Compassionate, non-judgmental help is available, and it's okay to reach out for it.

Many people end up in addiction treatment without knowing they have ADHD. They may have never been diagnosed as a child or have never seen a specialist about it because they're worried about the stigma surrounding it. Their symptoms might not fit their (or some providers') "typical" idea of ADHD, or they may be confused with depression, anxiety, or something else. Being misunderstood or told they simply weren’t trying hard enough can leave them searching for answers. Over time, these experiences can erode self-esteem and increase the risk for anxiety, depression, or substance use as a means to cope. An ADHD diagnosis—or that of any co-occurring mental health condition—during treatment can feel relieving, especially if you've tried to get sober before and faced a setback.

• A pattern of starting and abandoning projects, jobs, or relationships
• Using substances to focus, cope with stress, or manage overwhelming feelings
• Persistent restlessness or boredom, even during periods of sobriety
• Challenges in stopping substance use, despite wanting to do so
• Continued struggles with organization, time management, or forgetting commitments

What you can expect

Taking the first step takes courage, and you don’t have to do it alone. From your first call, our team will walk beside you, listening to you and encouraging your progress. You'll get clear, compassionate information every step of the way so you know what's around the corner. We accept Colorado Medicaid plans and provide free insurance verification so you know what your treatment might cost.

The Spring Grove Recovery team includes compassionate therapists, licensed clinicians, and supportive peers. As you complete treatment, we’ll collaborate with you to build a thoughtful aftercare plan, so you know what your next steps should be.

Recovery with heart. Rooted in the Rockies.

You deserve care rooted in respect, empathy, and hope. At Spring Grove Recovery, our team is here to support every step of your journey. We look forward to helping you move toward a brighter, more stable future. Whether you’re ready to start treatment or simply have questions, reach out any time. We’re here for you.

What’s different about treating ADHD and addiction together?

Integrated treatment leads to better outcomes for people with addiction and co-occurring ADHD. Only getting sober (or only managing ADHD symptoms) can lead to relapse and/or worsening symptoms. Dual diagnosis treatment considers your needs as a whole, rather than just helping you stop using drugs or alcohol.