Chapter 1: The College Experience and Self-Medication

During my college years, there was one particular class that I struggled to stay awake in, despite its intriguing content. The 3 p.m. slot often led to an inevitable slump in energy. My sleep was poor due to an 8 a.m. class, and I had a tendency towards “intrusive sleep,” a recognized symptom of ADHD, though I had not yet received a diagnosis.

To combat this fatigue, I turned to various substances. Initially, I relied on standard energy drinks, followed by caffeine and diet pills. Eventually, I sought out cocaine through a trustworthy source, which provided the stimulation I craved but came with significant risks, costs, and inconveniences.

Years of battling unexpected sleepiness forced me to depend on whatever stimulants I could find. This reliance took a toll on my body, disrupted my sleep further, and only offered temporary relief. However, once I began receiving treatment for my ADHD, I noticed a significant improvement. My prescribed medication helped me reduce my use of illegal drugs and significantly cut back on drinking.

Despite these positive changes, not everyone shares my experience. Research consistently shows that individuals with untreated or undiagnosed ADHD are more prone to substance use disorders. A recent study published in Alcohol and Alcoholism revealed that 36% of young adults with ADHD have experienced an alcohol use disorder, compared to 19% of those without ADHD. This data highlights the increased risk of developing various substance use disorders among those with ADHD.

It wasn’t until after college, when I had insurance, that I decided to seek help for my mental health issues. Initially, I aimed to address my bipolar disorder, but during my consultation, the doctor posed several ADHD-related questions, including inquiries about my sleep patterns and substance use.

In the restaurant industry, where I worked late nights, I had begun to use cocaine to combat my overwhelming fatigue, unlike my colleagues who used it for a boost. Just as I had previously relied on caffeine, cocaine became a tool to fend off my constant tiredness.

I’ve also known individuals with the more hyperactive type of ADHD who turned to alcohol for relief. Some friends find that a drink helps them focus and remain still, yet this form of self-medication carries its own risks. The belief that a small amount of a substance can help leads to the dangerous conclusion that larger amounts will provide even greater relief, which often results in trouble.

Substance use isn't limited to illegal drugs; many with undiagnosed ADHD may also self-medicate with seemingly harmless options that could lead to health issues. High sugar and carbohydrate consumption, often sought for a quick dopamine boost, is frequently reported, as are eating disorders stemming from unhealthy relationships with food.

Why do these patterns emerge? Are ADHD brains simply more impulsive, making it harder to regulate substance use? Or are individuals seeking relief from racing thoughts, physical restlessness, or crippling perfectionism?

Drugs from a dealer or drugs from a doctor?

The debate surrounding the underlying reasons for substance use is ongoing, but user surveys can shed light on motivations. One recent survey found that 25% of users with ADHD sought substances for recreational highs, while 36% reported using them to alleviate ADHD symptoms. This suggests a significant motive for their use: the pursuit of relief.

The issue becomes critical when legitimate medication is inaccessible for various reasons, forcing individuals to turn to illegal, dangerous, and unreliable alternatives. The risks associated with street drugs are substantial. With the prevalence of adulterated substances, ensuring access to safe medical interventions should be a priority for public health officials. However, ADHD medications remain classified as controlled substances, complicating reliable access even with prescriptions.

Data has long indicated that self-medication is common, perilous, and often preventable among those with ADHD. Rather than waiting until individuals reach a crisis point, what if we implemented earlier screenings and developed healthy coping mechanisms? What if we stopped stigmatizing medications that can prevent disordered behaviors?

It’s time to view individuals with ADHD not as morally flawed but as people with a legitimate disorder that requires attention. The research supports this perspective; now, we must act on it.

Chapter 2: The Impact of ADHD Medication

The first video title is ADHD Medication, Self Medicating and Addiction Part 1. This video delves into the relationship between ADHD medication, self-medication practices, and the potential for addiction. It provides valuable insights into how proper treatment can change lives.

The second video title is Why Stimulant Medication Helps ADHD -- and How Stigma Can Hurt. This video discusses the effectiveness of stimulant medications in treating ADHD and addresses the societal stigma that often surrounds their use.