Is it possible to suffer from ADHD and substance abuse? What treatment is available for dual diagnosis?Answered by:Wilfred Van Gorp
Yes, it is not only possible, but the two frequently occur together.
The situation is complicated by some treatments for ADHD, which can involve medications that, themselves, have a potential for abuse. Therefore, before prescribing medications, your doctor may want the affected person to undergo testing for ADHD to document it is present, and to determine its level of severity.
Additionally, certain non-pharmacologic treatments for ADHD, such as behavioral counseling, may be helpful to treat the symptoms, without risking problems associated with abuse that accompany some of the stimulant medications often used to treat ADHD.
Dr. van Gorp is Professor of Clinical Psychology and Director of Neuropsychology in the Department of Psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons. He is a clinical and research neuropsychologist who sees patients for evaluation in addition to conducting scientific research. An active member of his profession, Dr. van Gorp is past president of the American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology and a past member of the Council of Representatives of the American Psychological Association. Dr. van Gorp serves as Editor of the peer-reviewed scientific journal, Journal of Clini...
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