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How does neurodiversity impact addiction susceptibility?
Neurodiversity reminds us that we don’t all perceive or process the world in the same way. People with conditions such as sensory processing disorder, autism, or ADHD, for example, experience unique challenges in their day-to-day lives. But beyond these differences, there is one issue that many ignore that is vital to address: neurodiversity and addiction. In the wake of the connection between these conditions and the high rates of neurodiverse individuals facing substance abuse, a question arises that many parents, educators, and health professionals are asking: how does neurodiversity impact addiction susceptibility?
Living with a neurodiverse condition means coping with the world in ways that many neurotypical people cannot imagine. From sensory overload to difficulty regulating emotions or social interaction, these challenges can lead some to seek relief in substances that promise temporary respite. While not all do, neurodiverse individuals may be more vulnerable to turning to alcohol or drugs to cope with these difficulties.
In this ABA Centers of America blog, we’ll address the complex connection between neurodiversity and addiction and how you can offer support to your loved one to reduce the risk of future substance use.
Exploring the Link Between Neurodiversity and Addiction
The relationship between neurodiversity and addiction is not always straightforward, but certain factors contribute to increased risk. Neurodiverse people often feel constant pressure to conform to social norms and expectations. The emotional fatigue generated by trying to “fit in” can be overwhelming, leading them to seek ways to escape.
For example, a person with ADHD may turn to substances to control their difficulty concentrating, or a person with autism might use alcohol to manage social anxiety. These patterns can trigger dependence if not addressed appropriately. It is important to note that each individual is different, but the risk is present, and we should not ignore it.
Studies from the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD are at higher risk for substance use problems compared to the general population. However, the presence of intellectual disability (ID) may reduce the risk.
Vital statistics from the study revealed that individuals with ASD have a 3.3 times higher risk of any substance use-related problem. Researchers observed the highest risk for substance use disorder (8.5 times higher), followed by tobacco use disorder (6.4 times higher) and alcohol use disorder (4 times higher).
Additionally, it is essential to note that family history also plays a vital role in the connection between neurodiversity and addiction. The study suggests that shared family factors (genetic and environmental) may contribute to the increased risk of substance use problems in individuals with ASD, as researchers observed similar patterns among their siblings and parents.
Contributing Factors in Autism and Addiction Risk
Several neurodiversity factors and traits can increase the likelihood of substance abuse in neurodiverse individuals as a mechanism to cope with difficulties. Contributing factors in autism and addiction risk include:
- Difficulty Regulating Emotions: Many neurodiverse individuals face difficulty identifying and managing their emotions. Constant frustration, stress, and anxiety can drive them to seek relief from substances and to self-medicate.
- Social Rejection and Isolation: Exclusion or the feeling of being “different” can create an emotional void. This loneliness can increase the risk of seeking solace in drugs or alcohol. Some people with autism may resort to substance use to mask their condition. Masking may be related to emotional exhaustion, mental health issues, and an increased risk of suicide among adults with autism.
- Sensory Issues: In people with autism, sensory overload is a frequent challenge. Substances can seem like a quick fix to shut out the constant noise of an overwhelming world. According to research from the Autism Research Institute, “sensory processing difficulties are associated with alcohol use in adults with ASD.” This research found that those with higher levels of sensory seeking reported hazardous drinking behaviors.
- Impulsivity: Those with ADHD or related conditions may be more prone to impulsivity, which increases the risk of experimenting with substances without measuring consequences.
- Lack of Specialized Support: Although clinicians can diagnose autism at an early age, many people receive their diagnosis in adolescence or adulthood, which implies several years of life in which they did not receive specialized support for their needs. Lack of access to therapeutic support can increase the risk of autism and co-occurring addictions affecting a person’s quality of life.
Neurodiverse Teenagers and Substance Abuse
Adolescence is a pivotal time for anyone, but for neurodiverse youth, the challenges are even more remarkable. Academic stress, social pressure, and the search for identity can be factors that lead them to experiment with substances. Adolescence is a crucial time for brain development, and substance use during this period can have long-lasting effects.
For parents of teenagers with autism, it is critical to offer a safe space to express emotions, watch for changes in behavior, increase communication, and provide specialized autism support.
A study conducted by The American Journal on Addictions suggests that one in five young adults receiving treatment for substance use disorders may have traits characteristic of autism. The study used the Social Responsiveness Scale-2 (SRS-2) to assess social functioning and identify traits of autism, even in those without a formal diagnosis of ASD. It found that teenagers with higher scores on the SRS-2, indicating elevated autistic traits, were nearly eight times more likely to develop substance use disorders.
How Can ABA Therapy Reduce the Risk of Substance Abuse?
ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) can play an essential role in addressing neurodiversity and addiction by serving as a substance abuse prevention tool for individuals with autism. By focusing on behavior modification and the development of healthy coping skills, ABA therapy offers tools for dealing with everyday difficulties without resorting to destructive mechanisms.
An ABA therapist can help a person identify the triggers for their stress or anxiety and teach strategies to manage them more effectively. They can also teach techniques for emotional regulation and enhance communication skills, provide support for good academic performance, and help reduce the need to seek relief from substances.
Parents, caregivers, and educators of children and teenagers with autism in Massachusetts and New Hampshire can find the support they need at ABA Centers of America. Through ABA therapy services, both at home and at school, children on the autism spectrum can learn critical life skills, effectively manage challenging behaviors, and develop their innate strengths. In addition, they can improve their social and communication skills, strengthen their academic performance, comply with their individualized education program (IEP), and foster greater inclusion and integration into the community. These benefits not only boost children’s development but also can help reduce the risk that they will seek refuge in alcohol or drugs as an escape mechanism in the future.
Providing ABA Therapy Support with ABA Centers of America
Understanding the connection between neurodiversity and addiction is the first step in supporting those facing these challenges. The key is to provide resources, support, and appropriate therapies from an early age. Families, educators, and healthcare professionals have a crucial role to play in this prevention. For neurodiverse people, the message is clear: there are healthy alternatives for coping with daily challenges. ABA therapy, emotional support, and a supportive environment can make a difference.
If you know someone who may be at risk, seek help. Solutions are within reach, and it’s never too late to change course toward a healthier, more balanced future. Contact ABA Centers of America by calling (844) 923-4222 or schedule a complimentary consultation directly on our website.
