Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) & Substance Use
Integrated, evidence-based treatment with holistic care in the Hollywood Hills.
What is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning and personal development. It affects both children and adults, influencing academic performance, workplace productivity, and relationships. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2023) estimates that approximately 6 million children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD, while the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that about 4.4% of adults are affected. ADHD is generally classified into three main types: Predominantly Inattentive Presentation, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation, and Combined Presentation, which includes features of both. Experts such as Dr. Russell Barkley, a leading ADHD researcher, explain that the disorder is associated with irregular activity in the brain’s prefrontal cortex—responsible for attention, impulse control, and executive functioning. Symptoms often include forgetfulness, restlessness, difficulty maintaining focus, impulsivity, and trouble managing organization or time.
How does ADHD impact life and lead to substance use?
ADHD can significantly affect daily life, leading to chronic disorganization, distractibility, low frustration tolerance, and impulsive decision-making that can strain personal and professional relationships. Without proper treatment, these challenges can cause low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Research from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) shows that individuals with ADHD are two to three times more likely to develop a substance use disorder compared to the general population. Many people turn to substances such as alcohol, cannabis, or illicit stimulants in an attempt to self-medicate symptoms of inattention or restlessness, but these behaviors often worsen focus and mood instability. Studies have also found that adults with untreated ADHD are more likely to experience accidental injuries, car crashes, and hospitalizations, further highlighting the importance of structured, ongoing care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
How does Bliss Recovery treat ADHD?
At Bliss Recovery, ADHD treatment focuses on helping clients achieve clarity, balance, and sustainable focus through a blend of holistic therapies and evidence-based medical care. The program emphasizes yoga, meditation, and nutritional counseling to enhance mindfulness, reduce restlessness, and support healthy brain function. When clinically appropriate, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is incorporated to regulate attention and impulse control. Common medications used in the treatment of ADHD include stimulants such as amphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), dexmethylphenidate (Focalin), and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), as well as non-stimulant options like atomoxetine (Strattera), guanfacine (Intuniv), and bupropion (Wellbutrin). Bliss Recovery’s multidisciplinary team consists of licensed psychiatrists, clinicians, and therapists who specialize in managing ADHD and co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, and substance use. Through personalized care plans that combine medication management, behavioral therapy, and holistic wellness, Bliss Recovery empowers clients to improve focus, self-regulation, and long-term emotional well-being.
