What are the risks of substance abuse in individuals with ADHD Combined Type? 

Individuals with ADHD Combined Type face a heightened risk of substance abuse, particularly during adolescence and early adulthood. The core ADHD symptoms like impulsivity, emotional volatility, and restlessness can lead individuals to self-medicate with alcohol, cannabis, or stimulants to cope or feel “normal.” Without structured ADHD therapy, many individuals turn to unhealthy coping strategies to manage feelings of stress or mental restlessness. Substance use may temporarily mute discomfort but often worsens symptoms long term, leading to spirals of dependency and underachievement. 

Why Substance Use Risk Is Higher 

Understanding the pathways to substance misuse is crucial for prevention and early intervention. Here is what drives the risk in people with ADHD Combined Type: 

Impulsivity and emotional regulation 

Difficulty controlling urges or handling emotional swings increases the chance of experimenting with substances, especially in unstructured or peer-influenced settings. 

Stress and poor coping mechanisms 

Without proper stress management, some individuals may rely on substances to calm feelings of anxiety or emotional discomfort. Early emotional education and access to family therapy can help redirect this impulse. 

Misuse of prescribed stimulants 

Misunderstanding or mismanagement of medication effects can lead to incorrect use or recreational abuse, especially in unsupervised contexts. 

Preventing substance misuse starts with understanding the deeper vulnerabilities behind it. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and therapy pathways focused on healthy long-term outcomes.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Combined ADHD.