Are most addictions and ADHD spectrum disorders in adults on the same continuum?

Are most addictions and ADHD spectrum disorders in adults on the same continuum?

2 years ago

My clinical background as a psychiatrist started in treating addiction disorders. I was attracted to this field because it acknowledges the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual context of where the problems arise. Some of biological predispositions such as impulse control, distraction, attention problems, and attraction to novelty and high intensity circumstances (these days there’s a lot of talk on dopamine seeking) fall on the same spectrum as the core neurobiological specifics of ADHD. This has implications in the treatment as well, as we utilize various methods including medications to manage ADHD symptoms. It takes clinical experience to monitor proper use versus misuse or potential addictive use of stimulant medications. Many of the behavioral addictions also are the misdirected self managements of core ADHD symptoms. Some of my patients become frustrated with me and call me over cautious in prescribing stimulants, but my decades of experience with addictive illnesses and their treatments give rise to this caution, and I do believe it is ultimately serving my patients well.

5 Steps to Survive Extremes of Political Discourse
5 Steps to Survive Extremes of Political Discourse
4 years ago

Some might wonder why a psychiatrist would dare to comment on the current political climate and the unhealthy dialogue that is going on. The reality is that most people, including the patients that...

ADHD and Me: When will I feel normal?
ADHD and Me: When will I feel normal?
2 years ago

One of the main misunderstandings about ADHD assessment and therapy is that there is a state that one reaches when you feel totally normal , balanced, able to focus, and free of distraction and...

What to do with a family member with a personality disorder
What to do with a family member with a personality disorder
2 years ago

Dealing with a family member who has a personality disorder can be challenging and emotionally taxing. It's important to understand that personality disorders are complex me...