Are drug abuse and alcoholism more common among people with ADHD?

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Are drug abuse and alcoholism more common among people with ADHD?

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Several studies have shown a strong connection between ADHD, drug abuse, and alcoholism. ADHD is five to 10 times more common among adult alcoholics than it is in people without the condition. It's also more common for children with ADHD to start abusing alcohol during their teenage years. In one study, 14% of 15- to 17-year-olds with ADHD had problems with alcohol abuse or dependence, compared to none of their peers without ADHD.

Researchers have also found links between ADHD and the use of marijuana and other recreational drugs, particularly in people who also have other psychological disorders (such as obsessive-compulsive disorder). What's more, people with ADHD typically start having problems with drugs and alcohol at an earlier age than people without the condition.

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