When it comes to treating addiction, one factor that often goes under-recognized is the presence of Attention‑Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Research shows that individuals with ADHD are significantly more likely to develop a substance use disorder (SUD) than those without—especially when ADHD goes untreated. For treatment centers in Montana like Bear Creek Wellness, which focus on residential care, recognizing and treating this dual diagnosis is critical for achieving lasting recovery.
Understanding ADHD and Its Challenges
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity that are inappropriate for a person’s developmental stage. These symptoms can make daily tasks, social interactions and emotional regulation more difficult.
Because ADHD affects brain areas tied to reward, impulse control and motivation, individuals with undiagnosed or unmanaged ADHD may struggle to self-regulate—and some may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope or self-medicate.
How ADHD Raises the Risk for Substance Use
Earlier Onset and Higher Prevalence
Studies show that children and adolescents with ADHD are two to three times more likely to develop substance use problems compared with their peers. Among adults seeking addiction treatment, the prevalence of ADHD is markedly higher than in the general population.
Impulsivity and Risk-Taking
Impulsive behavior is a hallmark of ADHD and also a known risk factor for substance initiation. Those who struggle with impulse control may begin experimenting earlier, use substances in riskier ways, or escalate more quickly into addiction.
Self-Medication and Emotional Dysregulation
Unmanaged ADHD frequently involves frustration, low self-esteem, mood swings and sleep problems. Substances may offer temporary relief, but often worsen the underlying symptoms and lead to dependence.
Complex Recovery Journeys
When ADHD and SUD coexist, treatment becomes more complicated: individuals often have multiple mental-health comorbidities, higher relapse risk, earlier onset of addiction and greater treatment dropout rates. The interplay of disorders means one cannot be ignored when the other is treated.
Addressing ADHD in a Substance-Use Context
Comprehensive Assessment
A treatment program should begin with a comprehensive assessment that evaluates ADHD symptoms in the context of substance use—recognizing that withdrawal, intoxication or psychiatric symptoms can mimic or mask ADHD.
Integrated Treatment Planning
The standard of care for dual diagnosis (both ADHD and SUD) is integrated treatment—addressing both conditions simultaneously in a cohesive plan.
For residential centers, this means combining behavioral therapies, medication oversight, psychoeducation and close monitoring under one roof.
Evidence-Based Therapeutic Approaches
Behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) help clients with ADHD-SUD learn impulse control, emotional regulation and coping strategies. Medication management may involve non-stimulant and carefully monitored stimulant therapies where appropriate.
Stabilizing Addiction First
Research suggests that improving outcomes in ADHD-SUD cases works best when substance dependence is addressed first—stabilizing use, reducing relapse risk—then layering ADHD-specific care. Residential programs enable that phased approach in a safe, structured environment.
What This Means for Montana Residential Treatment
Residential Care Offers the Proper Setting
For many individuals with ADHD and SUD, outpatient care may not provide adequate structure or protection from triggers. A residential setting like Bear Creek Wellness provides 24/7 supervision, consistent routine and fewer distractions—ideal for stabilizing both disorders.
Staff Training and Dual-Diagnosis Expertise
Facilities must ensure staff have dual-diagnosis competencies: knowing how ADHD symptoms interact with addiction, how impulsivity impacts recovery and how to coordinate psychiatric and addiction care effectively.
Individualized and Long-Term Support
Clients with ADHD and SUD often benefit from longer stays, practice of new skills, relapse-prevention planning and community-reintegration strategies. A residential model allows time to build these foundations rather than rush through treatment.
Holistic Care and Wellness Integration
Beyond therapy and medication, residential programs can embed wellness interventions—nutrition, sleep-hygiene support, stress reduction techniques, mindfulness—to reduce ADHD symptoms and support sustained recovery.
Why Bear Creek Wellness Is Prepared for ADHD-SUD Recovery
Bear Creek Wellness is a residential treatment center in Montana that focuses exclusively on inpatient care, making it well-suited for individuals with dual diagnoses like ADHD and substance use. The model includes:
- A structured daily schedule that builds discipline and consistency
- Evidence-based therapies (CBT and DBT-informed practices) to improve regulation and coping
- Trauma-informed, holistic wellness options addressing body and mind
- Coordinated medical and mental-health oversight to manage ADHD symptoms and addiction risks
By integrating addiction care with targeted support for ADHD symptoms, Bear Creek provides the depth of intervention that dual-diagnosis clients often require.
Taking the Next Step in Dual-Diagnosis Recovery
If ADHD symptoms are present alongside substance use, acknowledging the connection is the first step. Individuals should seek a program that assesses both disorders, offers integrated care and provides a safe environment for transformation. Residential treatment—which allows full focus on healing without external distractions—is especially beneficial when ADHD and addiction intersect.
For those seeking such care in Montana, Bear Creek Wellness offers residential programs designed to support dual-diagnosis recovery addressing both ADHD and substance use with structure, expertise and compassion. Visit bearcreekwellness.com to learn more about how integrated residential care can support your journey toward long-term health and freedom.
Sources:
[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9097465/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4414493/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Andrea was born and raised in Spokane Washington, she moved to Montana with her husband in 2015. Andrea has been in the field of counseling since 2009. As a licensed addiction counselor, she worked primarily in addiction until 2018 when she completed her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy and became a license clinical professional counselor and a licensed marriage and family therapist. Andrea has worked with diverse populations and found her calling working with individuals and couples struggling with substance use and its relational
impact. With a passion for recovery and healing families, Andrea has built a private practice in Missoula, MT and serves various populations. Andrea’s love for people and her desire to engage with, and promote, internal healing has fostered a truly unique role aiding individualized journeys in recovery. In her spare time, she enjoys her beautiful property west of Missoula with nature at her front and back doors. Her greatest joy in life is spending time with her granddaughter and breaking the cycle of addiction in her own family.