For residents of Portland, Oregon seeking treatment for both ADHD and addiction, it is essential to find a facility that not only understands the intricacies of both conditions but offers specialized dual diagnosis treatment to address both conditions simultaneously.
At Crestview Recovery, we offer dual diagnosis treatment to address a number of different co-occurring disorders, including ADHD and addiction. Whether you are seeking treatment for yourself or a loved one, we offer the support necessary for overcoming both ADHD and addiction.
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ADHD and Addiction Treatment in Portland, OR
In order to try and address these behaviors and symptoms, they may turn to substances of abuse (such as drugs or alcohol) as a form of self-medication. This may make them feel that they can feel and act normally again. They may see initially positive results, thus encouraging them to continue to use whatever substance abuse they tried.
However, what this is ultimately doing is starting a cycle of addiction. Once an addiction has developed as a result of self-medicating for ADHD symptoms, professional intervention is crucial so that both conditions don’t continue to worsen. Due to the complexity of both conditions, specialized treatment is often required to address the two conditions simultaneously.
There are a number of treatment facilities in the Portland area that offer dual diagnosis treatment, including right here at Crestview Recovery. Dual diagnosis treatment targets the root causes of both conditions, ensuring that individuals have the coping mechanisms and skills they need to lead fulfilling, substance-free lives.
Symptoms of ADHD Co-Occurring with Addiction
Here are some common signs of ADHD co-occurring with addiction:
- Impulsivity: Individuals with ADHD often act impulsively, making hasty decisions or engaging in risky behaviors. This can lead to frequent relapses or poor decisions regarding substance use.
- Inattention: Struggling to focus, organize thoughts, or complete tasks can impact recovery efforts. Individuals with ADHD may find it difficult to remain committed to treatment or recovery plans.
- Hyperactivity: Feelings of restlessness or an inability to relax can contribute to increased substance use. Individuals with ADHD may turn to substances as a way to calm their hyperactive energy.
- Difficulty Managing Emotions: People with ADHD often struggle to regulate their emotions, leading to mood swings or irritability. This can make it harder for individuals to cope with stress, increasing the risk of relapse.
- Poor Impulse Control: Acting without thinking is a hallmark of ADHD. In addiction recovery, this can manifest as engaging in substance use without considering the consequences.
- Substance-Seeking Behavior: Many individuals with ADHD experience a compulsion to seek out substances that provide temporary relief from restlessness, anxiety, or other uncomfortable symptoms. This behavior worsens the addiction cycle.
- Difficulty with Long-Term Planning: ADHD often makes it challenging for individuals to plan ahead or follow through on long-term goals, such as maintaining sobriety or staying committed to treatment.
Do People With ADHD Struggle with Substance Abuse?
This is largely due to a variety of different factors, including:
- Self-Medication: Many individuals with ADHD use substances like alcohol, nicotine, or illicit drugs to manage their symptoms. Stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamine may temporarily improve focus, while depressants like alcohol and opioids may help alleviate feelings of restlessness or anxiety.
- Impulsivity: Impulsivity is a key feature of ADHD, and one that can lead to poor decision-making. People with ADHD may start using drugs or alcohol without fully understanding the long-term consequences (such as dependency and addiction).
- Dopamine Deficiency: ADHD is often associated with lower dopamine levels in the brain. Individuals may seek external sources of pleasure and reward to compensate for this deficiency, such as drugs or alcohol.
- Social Struggles: People with ADHD often face challenges in maintaining relationships, succeeding academically, or performing well in professional settings. These struggles can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and stress. This may increase the likelihood of turning to substances for relief.
- Chronic Restlessness and Anxiety: Restlessness, anxiety, and an inability to relax are common symptoms of ADHD. Substances like alcohol, cannabis, or benzodiazepines may be used to self-medicate these feelings.
- Poor Emotional Regulation: Emotional dysregulation is common in people with ADHD. This can lead to intense feelings of frustration, irritability, or sadness. Substances may be used as a way to numb these overwhelming emotions, increasing the risk of addiction.
Recognizing the link between ADHD and substance abuse is critical for effective treatment. Comprehensive treatment plans that address both conditions simultaneously are essential for lasting recovery. If ADHD is left untreated and only addiction is addressed, relapse is much more likely because the underlying symptoms of ADHD continue to drive impulsive behavior and self-medication.
How is ADHD Treated as a Dual Diagnosis?
As it relates to dual diagnosis treatment for ADHD and addiction specifically, there are some key components:
Any form of addiction or mental health treatment starts with a comprehensive evaluation and assessment. This is done not only to properly diagnose the condition (or conditions), but also to determine the severity. Once the diagnosis and severity have been confirmed, a personalized treatment plan can be created to effectively treat the condition or conditions.
Depending on the results of the assessment, it may be determined that psychiatric medications should be prescribed in order to address the symptoms associated with ADHD, addiction, or both. For ADHD symptoms, stimulant or non-stimulant medication may be prescribed. For substance abuse, certain medications (either prescription or over-the-counter) may be administered in order to alleviate any withdrawal symptoms that may occur. This is particularly important early on in treatment.
Behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT) are commonly used to help individuals with ADHD and addiction. These therapies focus on determining the root cause of the issue in order to develop coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and reduce impulsivity.
Group therapy and peer support programs (such as 12-step programs) can help individuals connect with others facing similar struggles and gain valuable insights into their recovery journey both during and after treatment.
Many treatment facilities also offer holistic therapies as a complement to the more traditional therapy methods. These techniques play a vital role in supporting emotional and mental well-being.
We offer a number of holistic therapies at Crestview Recovery, including:
- Yoga
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Massage
- Acupuncture
- Nutrition
Dual Diagnosis Program in Portland
As part of our dual diagnosis treatment program, we offer:
- Individualized treatment plans tailored to each client’s specific needs and experiences.
- 24/7 medical support, including medical supervision and rehabilitation support to ensure a safe and effective recovery process.
- Experienced therapists and psychiatrists who specialize in treating ADHD and addiction, ensuring expert-level care for clients.
- Holistic therapies such as yoga, art therapy, and physical activity all of which promote emotional and mental well-being.
- Aftercare planning such as ongoing support, relapse prevention strategies, and outpatient services to help clients maintain long-term sobriety.
Get ADHD and Addiction Treatment at Crestview Recovery
Don’t let ADHD and addiction control your future. Contact us today to begin your recovery journey and take the first step toward a healthier, happier life.
