It’s common for people to have a mental illness, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which slowly contributes to the development of addiction. Typically, illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, because of the emotional pain that one endures with these illnesses, contribute to addiction. However, other disorders have also been known to contribute to addiction, such as ADHD and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). These are illnesses that affect one’s ability to concentrate, which can create significant problems at work, home, and in relationships. These symptoms can create significant problems in one’s life, which may cause someone to turn to drinking or the use of drugs as a means to cope with their life.
In fact, research indicates that those who have been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD as children or teens have a good chance of developing a problem with addiction later in life. They may initially find use of drugs or alcohol as a way to feel better, which might have gotten worse over time, creating an addiction. Experts have also found that 60% of children and teens who were diagnosed with ADD/ADHD will continue to experience symptoms of the disorder in adulthood. The symptoms of ADD/ADHD in an adult include: