Treatment centers for concurrent learning disabilities and substance abuse can address both issues and put a person on the path to recovery. Substance abuse can occur more often with disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and dyslexia because of the additional stress placed on these individuals by their learning conditions. Difficulties with relationships and work can lead to drinking. The access to stimulant drugs such as amphetamines for people with ADHD may lead to drug abuse.
Rehab and recovery centers specializing in learning disabilities and substance abuse may be able to help treat both problems by addressing them at the same time. Those with dyslexia may be offered therapy and educational help. People with ADHD may be placed on new medications or learn to manage the ADHD without the use of medications or other substances.
If you or someone you know is struggling with learning disorders, like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and substance abuse or dyslexia and substance abuse, it’s time to seek help. Our 24-hour hotline can be reached by calling 1-888-319-2606 Who Answers? . We have people waiting to take your call seven days a week, so we are ready when you are.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Substance Abuse
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder and learning disability characterized by inattentiveness, impulsivity, over-activity or a combination of these symptoms. ADHD normally affects children, but adults may also suffer from it. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, the symptoms must be out of the norm for the age group. People with ADHD may have trouble in specific environments, like in the classroom or at work. ADHD-specific behaviors and their potential impacts, like substance abuse, might also take a toll on relationships and occupational functioning. 1
While medication is the most common method for treating ADHD, and can be very effective in addressing symptoms, there are some potential risks. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA), between 2005 and 2010, 31,244 visits to the emergency department were associated with ADHD and stimulant medication use. 2
Other drugs were involved in 45 percent of those department visits, according to SAMHSA, and one-fifth of the visits included illicit drugs (21 percent) and one-fifth involved alcohol (19 percent). Because stimulants are relatively easy to ahold of, they are commonly misused or used by people other than those to whom the stimulants are prescribed. Finding a rehabilitation center specializing in learning disorders and substance abuse may be the best option for those who are taking more of the medication than prescribed. Similar treatment options are also available for those abusing stimulant medication without a learning disability.
Dyslexia and Substance Abuse
Dyslexia is a broad term that defines a learning disability that makes it difficult for a person to read or comprehend written material. There are three types of dyslexia, including auditory, visual and attentional. People with dyslexia may struggle with literacy, which can lead to a number of problems including the abuse of drugs and alcohol to cope with the frustration.3
Treatment for Substance Abuse and Learning Disorders
Therapy centers for learning disorders and substance abuse can help those struggling with dyslexia or ADHD get the help they need while also treating co-occurring drug and alcohol problems.
First, these programs focus on detoxification therapy to help completely remove harmful substances from the person’s body. This could be reducing or eliminating stimulants in cases of ADHD, or it could mean detoxing from alcohol and illicit drugs. Usually, this process is accomplished through tapering and with the help of medications to reduce withdrawal side effects in severe cases.
Individuals will then be able to participate in a recovery program. Some options include:
People with dual diagnoses typically participate in an inpatient program. This is easier for many people because everything is provided in one location, and individuals can focus on getting well. Doctors and other staff monitor the individual 24 hours per day, making it easier to maintain drug abstinence and engage in healthy behaviors.
“There are locations all over the United States and the world, so there is the perfect program for your needs.”
In these programs, you may work with a mental health professional who can help you understand the root of your substance abuse, learn new ways to deal with the temptation of substance abuse, and learn how to best adapt to a substance-free lifestyle. You may also have access to nutritionists who can help you change your diets, teachers who can help you understand how to work with disorders like ADHD and dyslexia, and therapists who can help you talk through your issues.
Treatment centers for learning disorders and substance abuse are available in your area, so call us at 1-888-319-2606 Who Answers? to learn more about one that you or a loved one might want to attend. There are locations all over the United States and the world, so call today to find the perfect program for your needs.
. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Retrieved February 25, 2016, from http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtml .
. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2013, January 24). Sharp rise in emergency department visits involving ADHD medications. Retrieved February 25, 2016, from http://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/press-announcements/201301240645.
. Yates, R. (2013). Bad mouthing, bad habits and bad, bad, boys: An exploration of the relationship between dyslexia and drug dependence. Mental Health And Substance Use, 6(3), 184-202. doi:10.1080/17523281.2012.699460.
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