Substance use in college students with ADHD
Mary Rooney1, Andrea Chronis-Tuscano, Yesel Yoon
1University of Maryland, College Park, USA. rooney@umd.edu
Journal of Attention Disorders
|February 4, 2011
Summary
College students with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) show higher rates of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drug use. This increased substance use and impairment risk highlights the need for targeted interventions for this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- The transition to college is a critical period for the onset of heavy drinking and substance use.
- Individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may be particularly susceptible to alcohol- and drug-related problems during young adulthood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and patterns of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drug use among college students with and without ADHD.
- To determine if ADHD is associated with increased risk for substance use and related impairment in a college student population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted with 91 college students.
- Participants were categorized into two groups: those with ADHD (n=53) and those without ADHD (n=38).
- Substance use (tobacco, alcohol, illicit drugs) and associated impairment were assessed.
Main Results:
- Students with ADHD reported significantly higher frequencies of tobacco use compared to their peers without ADHD.
- Higher rates of dangerous or hazardous alcohol consumption patterns were observed in the ADHD group.
- Individuals with ADHD exhibited greater impairment related to both marijuana and non-marijuana illicit drug use, irrespective of a history of conduct disorder.
Conclusions:
- College students diagnosed with ADHD are at a heightened risk for developing problematic patterns of substance use.
- These findings underscore the importance of screening for and addressing substance use issues in college students with ADHD.
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