When most people think of ADHD, they picture someone who’s fidgety, easily distracted, maybe struggling to focus. But ADHD isn’t just about being hyper or disorganised. It’s a complex neurological condition that affects how a person regulates attention, emotion, and behaviour. And when it’s not properly managed, it can create a very real risk for something else – substance abuse.
The connection between ADHD and substance abuse is stronger than many people realise. In fact, individuals with ADHD are significantly more likely to develop problems with drugs or alcohol. And sadly, it often goes unnoticed until things spiral out of control.
In this post, we’ll explore why ADHD and substance abuse so often go hand in hand, the signs to look for, and how Dr Jolandi Meyer, working closely with the expert team at The Way Recovery Centre in Pretoria, helps people break the cycle and find lasting recovery.
What Is ADHD?
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It’s typically characterised by:
Inattention (trouble focusing, forgetfulness, being easily distracted)
Hyperactivity (restlessness, fidgeting, constant movement)
Impulsivity (acting without thinking, interrupting, risky decisions)
But ADHD isn’t the same for everyone. Some people are primarily inattentive, while others show more hyperactivity. For many, it’s a mix of both. And although it’s often diagnosed in childhood, plenty of adults live with undiagnosed ADHD for years, sometimes their whole lives.
Why People with ADHD Are More Vulnerable to Addiction
People with ADHD aren’t more likely to experiment with drugs because they’re “reckless” or “badly behaved.” The reality is much more complex, involving both biological and emotional factors.
Here’s why the link between ADHD and substance abuse is so strong:
1. Self-medication
Many people with undiagnosed or untreated ADHD turn to substances to “calm their mind” or feel more in control. Alcohol might help with social anxiety or restlessness. Cannabis may slow racing thoughts. Stimulants like cocaine can briefly improve focus. Over time, these coping mechanisms can turn into dependency.
2. Impulsivity and risk-taking
ADHD affects the brain’s reward system, making impulsive behaviour more likely. This includes risky choices like binge drinking, experimenting with drugs, or ignoring the consequences of regular substance use.
3. Emotional dysregulation
ADHD often comes with difficulty regulating emotions. This can lead to frequent frustration, low self-esteem, mood swings, and anxiety, all of which can increase the risk of turning to substances for relief.
4. Early exposure and peer pressure
People with ADHD are more likely to struggle at school or feel like they don’t “fit in.” This makes them more vulnerable to peer influence, and they may be exposed to alcohol or drugs at a younger age.
5. Sleep problems
Sleep disturbances are common in ADHD. Some turn to alcohol or sedatives to help them sleep, which can easily turn into nightly use, then dependence.
Common Substance Abuse Patterns in ADHD
There’s no one-size-fits-all pattern, but some substances are more commonly abused by people with ADHD:
Alcohol: Often used to relax or slow the brain down
Cannabis: May be used to reduce anxiety or help with sleep
Nicotine: A stimulant that’s frequently used for focus or emotional regulation
Cocaine or methamphetamine: Can temporarily increase attention or energy
Prescription medications: Such as Ritalin or Adderall, especially if misused or taken without medical supervision
Benzodiazepines or sleeping pills: Used to manage anxiety or insomnia
These substances may seem helpful at first, but they quickly disrupt the brain’s natural balance, worsening symptoms and creating a cycle of dependency.
When ADHD and Addiction Overlap
When someone has both ADHD and a substance use disorder, it’s called a co-occurring condition or dual diagnosis. This can be tricky to treat. Symptoms of one disorder can mask or mimic the other. For example, withdrawal from substances can look like inattention, while hyperactivity may be mistaken for intoxication.
Some signs of a dual diagnosis might include:
Worsening concentration, memory or motivation
Using substances to “cope” with daily life
Feeling out of control or unable to stop using
Mood swings, irritability or depression
Relationship breakdowns or poor work performance
Legal or financial issues tied to substance use
Many people feel ashamed or overwhelmed, unsure whether they’re dealing with ADHD, addiction, or both. That’s why accurate diagnosis and specialised treatment are so important.
The Role of Diagnosis and Early Intervention
One of the biggest challenges is that many adults with ADHD have never been formally diagnosed. They’ve just always seen themselves as forgetful, disorganised or “bad at life.” When they start using substances, they may not realise it’s tied to deeper neurological issues.
At The Way Recovery Centre, Dr Jolandi Meyer plays a crucial role in identifying and managing ADHD in clients who are also struggling with addiction. As a GP who specialises in both physical and mental health, she’s able to:
Provide a full medical and psychological evaluation
Identify symptoms of ADHD that may have gone unnoticed
Differentiate between addiction-related behaviours and ADHD
Offer safe and appropriate medication where needed
Work with the broader therapeutic team to create a personalised recovery plan
Early diagnosis doesn’t just explain past struggles—it can be the turning point for real recovery.
Why ADHD Medication Isn’t the Enemy
Some people worry that taking stimulant medication for ADHD could trigger addiction. But here’s the reality: when prescribed and monitored properly, ADHD medication can actually reduce the risk of substance abuse by improving impulse control and reducing the need to self-medicate.
Dr Meyer ensures that any ADHD treatment plan is safe, medically appropriate, and tailored to each person’s unique situation. The goal isn’t just to treat addiction, but to build a sustainable, balanced, and healthy life.
Supporting a Loved One with ADHD and Substance Abuse
Watching someone you care about struggle with both ADHD and addiction can be heartbreaking. You may feel helpless, frustrated, or confused. But your support is incredibly valuable.
Here’s how to help:
Learn about ADHD and addiction so you can understand what they’re facing
Encourage them to seek professional help, especially from specialists like Dr Meyer
Avoid judgement or lectures – focus on their strengths and small steps forward
Offer to attend appointments or help them stay organised during treatment
Take care of your own well-being too – supporting someone in recovery can be emotionally draining
You don’t need to fix everything. Just being there, consistently and kindly, can make all the difference.
For information on our 28-day in-patient programme with professional qualified medical detox from addiction and a platform of different approaches to addicts suffering from long-term gambling, alcohol and/or drug addiction, get in touch with Dr. Jolandi Meyer at The Way Recovery – Gambling, Drug & Alcohol Abuse Treatment Facility in Pretoria. A six-week outpatient programme with individual counselling, group therapy, and family support is also available from The Way Recovery.
The Way Recovery Halfway House in Pretoria offers a reintegration, aftercare programme to aid the addict who has finished a detox programme in adjusting to society for the recovering addict who still struggles.
How Dr Jolandi Meyer and The Way Recovery Centre Can Help
Treating ADHD and addiction at the same time is essential. If you only treat the addiction, but ignore the ADHD, the chances of relapse are much higher. That’s why a combined approach is needed – something that Dr Meyer and the team at The Way Recovery Centre are uniquely equipped to provide.
Their treatment includes:
Medical support
Dr Meyer helps manage withdrawal safely, monitors health conditions, and prescribes ADHD medication when appropriate. She also checks for any physical damage caused by long-term substance use.
Therapy and counselling
Clients receive individual therapy focused on managing both ADHD symptoms and addictive behaviours. CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is especially effective for impulse control and emotional regulation.
Group support
Group sessions offer connection and encouragement. Sharing with others who understand both addiction and ADHD helps reduce feelings of isolation.
Skills development
Clients learn practical skills for managing ADHD in daily life, like time management, sleep hygiene, stress reduction, and communication techniques.
Relapse prevention and aftercare
Once formal treatment ends, the journey continues. Ongoing support helps clients maintain progress, manage triggers, and stay focused on recovery goals.
The link between ADHD and substance abuse is real, powerful, and too often overlooked. When left unmanaged, ADHD can fuel a lifelong struggle with addiction. But with the right diagnosis, medical care, and support, that cycle can be broken.
Dr Jolandi Meyer, working alongside the team at The Way Recovery Centre, offers comprehensive, compassionate care for individuals facing both ADHD and addiction. From accurate diagnosis to personalised recovery plans, clients receive the tools they need to find stability and thrive.
If you or someone you love is caught in this dual struggle, don’t wait. Help is available, and recovery is possible.
Common Ailments Treated by Dr. Jolandi Meyer
Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s expertise and comprehensive treatment options make her an exceptional General Practitioner for addressing all ailments. She provides personalised care, empowering patients to achieve optimal health. Her compassionate approach ensures patients receive the highest quality treatment. Her practice is located in Garsfontein, Pretoria on the same premises as The Way Recovery Centre.
With her support and guidance, patients can embark on a journey towards improved well-being and a healthier, happier life.