Individuals with this type of ADHD struggle mainly with focus, organization, and follow-through. Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks, conversations, or activities.
• Easily distracted by external stimuli or unrelated thoughts.
• Forgetfulness in daily activities (e.g., missing appointments, losing items).
• Poor organization skills, leading to messy workspaces and trouble managing time.
• Frequent mistakes due to careless errors in schoolwork or job tasks.
• Difficulty following instructions and completing assignments.
• Avoidance of tasks that require prolonged mental effort (e.g., reading, paperwork).

This type of ADHD is marked by excessive energy, restlessness, and impulsive actions. Symptoms include:

• Constant fidgeting or squirming when seated.
• Difficulty staying seated in situations where it’s expected (e.g., classrooms, meetings).
• Excessive talking, often interrupting others.
• Blurting out answers before a question is fully asked.
• Difficulty waiting for their turn in conversations or activities.
• Engaging in risky behaviors without considering consequences.
• Running or climbing in inappropriate situations (more common in children).
• Appearing “on the go” or acting as if “driven by a motor.”

This is the most common form of ADHD, where a person exhibits a mix of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. These individuals may struggle with focus, organization, and impulse control while also displaying high levels of restlessness and excessive energy.

Symptoms include:

• Difficulty focusing on tasks
• Frequent careless mistakes
• Forgetfulness and disorganization
• Impulsivity and risk-taking behavior
• Hyperactivity and restlessness
• Trouble following instructions

• Difficulty maintaining relationships
• Poor work or academic performance
• Emotional dysregulation
• Increased impulsivity and risk-taking

• Higher likelihood of substance abuse
• Chronic difficulties with employment and financial stability
• Increased risk of anxiety and depression
• Struggles with maintaining long-term relationships

• Impaired judgment and decision-making
• Increased risk of accidents and injuries
• Mood swings and irritability
• Short-term memory loss

• Physical health complications (liver disease, heart problems, etc.)
• Damage to relationships and social isolation
• Legal and financial issues
• Increased risk of overdose and mental health disorders

Individuals with ADHD and addiction benefit most from dual diagnosis treatment programs that provide:

• Structured Routines & Life Skills Training – Helps manage ADHD-related disorganization and impulsivity while reinforcing recovery habits.
• Peer Support & 12-Step Programs – Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or ADHD-specific support groups provide guidance, accountability, and encouragement.
• Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders – Specialized inpatient and outpatient programs designed for individuals with co-occurring disorders can provide medical detox, addiction counseling, and aftercare planning tailored to ADHD and addiction recovery.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) plays a crucial role in managing ADHD symptoms while minimizing the risk of substance misuse.

• Non-stimulant medications (e.g., Atomoxetine (Strattera), Guanfacine (Intuniv)) are often recommended for individuals with ADHD and a history of substance abuse, as they have a lower potential for addiction.
• Stimulant Medications (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin) can still be used under close medical supervision, particularly with long-acting or extended-release formulations that reduce the likelihood of misuse.
• Medications for Substance Use Disorder (e.g., Naltrexone, Buprenorphine, or Disulfiram) may also be prescribed to support addiction recovery, depending on the substance being abused.

Therapy is essential in addressing both ADHD symptoms and substance use patterns. Effective approaches include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)– Helps individuals recognize negative thought patterns, develop impulse control, and build coping strategies to manage cravings and ADHD-related challenges.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness techniques to reduce impulsive behaviors and substance use.
• Motivational Interviewing (MI) – Encourages individuals to find their motivation for sobriety and ADHD symptom management.
• Contingency Management – Uses reward-based incentives to reinforce positive behaviors and reduce substance use.

• Exercise & Nutrition – Regular physical activity can help regulate dopamine levels naturally, improving focus and reducing the urge to self-medicate.
• Mindfulness & Meditation – Our holistic rehab in Huntington Beach, CA offers programs such as yoga, deep breathing, and guided meditation to help with emotional regulation and impulse control.
• Sleep Hygiene – ADHD often disrupts sleep, and substance use can worsen these effects. Creating a consistent bedtime routine and limiting stimulants can promote better rest and cognitive function.

Because ADHD is a lifelong condition, ongoing support and treatment adjustments are essential to maintaining sobriety and symptom management. This may include:

• Regular therapy sessions to reinforce coping skills.
• Continued medication management with a healthcare provider.
• Relapse prevention strategies, such as identifying triggers and developing alternative coping mechanisms.
• Strong support networks, including family, therapists, and support groups, to maintain accountability and emotional well-being.

Effective treatment for ADHD and addiction requires a holistic, multi-faceted approach that addresses both conditions simultaneously. By combining medication, addiction counseling, lifestyle changes, and long-term support, individuals with dual diagnoses can achieve stability, manage ADHD symptoms, and maintain lasting recovery from addiction.