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What non-substance addictions are common in ADHD (e.g. gambling, gaming)? 

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ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

People with ADHD are not only at higher risk for substance misuse,research also shows they’re more likely to experience behavioural or “non-substance” addictions, such as gambling, gaming, or compulsive internet use. According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Good Practice Guidelines for ADHD in Adults (2023), impulsivity and difficulty, regulating reward-seeking behaviour makes individuals with ADHD more vulnerable to these repetitive, high-reward activities. 

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Gambling, gaming, and digital addictions 

Evidence from Lancet Psychiatry and recent PubMed research (2025) shows that gambling disorder remains the most clearly established behavioural addiction linked with ADHD. Many people describe a rapid cycle of reward and loss, driven by impulsive decisions and an underestimation of risk. 

Gaming addiction and problematic internet or social media use are also increasingly recognised. The NHS and NICE ADHD guideline NG87 note that online gaming and social platforms can reinforce the same dopamine-driven feedback loops seen in traditional addictions, making them particularly challenging for people with ADHD who are prone to reward-seeking and emotional dysregulation. 

Why ADHD increases vulnerability 

The reasons are rooted in neurobiology and behaviour. ADHD affects the brain’s dopamine system, which regulates reward and motivation. This can make short-term rewards,like a gaming “win” or online approval, feel especially reinforcing. Impulsivity, difficulty delaying gratification, and sensation-seeking can turn these habits into compulsive patterns. 

Emotional dysregulation also plays a role. When stress, boredom, or frustration build, engaging in high-stimulation activities offers fast relief, a cycle that can deepen dependence on behaviours like gaming, gambling, or online browsing. 

Managing behavioural addictions in ADHD 

While NICE guidance does not provide separate recommendations for behavioural addictions, it highlights the value of structured psychological therapies that address impulsivity and self-control. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help individuals understand their triggers, build coping skills, and reduce impulsive decision-making. 

Support may also involve managing ADHD symptoms directly through medication and behavioural interventions. In the UK, services such as ADHD Certify provide diagnostic assessments and medication reviews, while emerging behavioural programmes like Theara Change focus on coaching and therapy-based support for emotional and behavioural regulation. 

The takeaway 

Behavioural addictions like gambling, gaming, and internet overuse are more common in people with ADHD, largely because of how ADHD affects impulse control and the brain’s reward system. Recognising these links early, and addressing both ADHD and the underlying addictive patterns, is key to recovery and better long-term wellbeing. 

Victoria Rowe, MSc
Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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