E80: Brains in Overdrive: Updates in the ADHD-Substance Use Connection

Today, I’m giving you an update on one of our more important topics from the past, on the co-occurrence and treatment recommendations for folks who have both ADHD and also a substance use disorder of some sort.

I’m covering: 

1. The connection between untreated or under-treated ADHD and substance use,

2. The short and long term effects of cannabis on an ADHD brain,

3. Why the nuances of substance use within the context of ADHD matters, 

4. What therapists who treat ADHD, need to also understand about SUD, 

5. What the pro’s and con’s of ADHD medication are in the context of SUD. 

Resources for After the Show: 

• The OG: The ADHD Resource Hub, in particular, ADHD & Special Topics: SUD

• Substance Use Disorders and ADHD: 5 Key Facts and Additional Resources + Substance Use Disorder and ADHD: Safe, Effective Treatment Options, Webinar with Dr. Wilens

• Cannabis and ADHD – A CADDRA Policy Statement

• ConnexOntario: 24/7 Access to Mental Health, Addiction, and Problem Gambling Information

• Primary reference: Ahmed, G. and Chang, S. (2024, Sept. 28). Overcoming Challenges in ADHD Care: Assessment and Treatment of Patients with Concurrent Substance Use Disorders. [Conference presentation]. CADDRA Annual Conference, Winnipeg, MB.

Find Christina (CRPO #3908): Website |Find a Therapist | Get Assessed by an NP in Ontario | Instagram |TikTok | X

A gentle reminder that this is not therapy, and Christina nor Katie are not your therapist. If you need more one on one support or treatment, please check out the links posted above or our Resources page on our website.

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