Studies have shown that about 25 percent of people with addiction also have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Developing both addiction and ADHD can happen because of a number of reasons. One reason could just be genetics. Both ADHD and addiction are genetic problems and can therefore be passed down to children. Another reason is behavioral problems. People who have ADHD are more impulsive with their decisions and tend to have behavioral issues which may put them into bad situations. Behavioral issues and impulsiveness alone can also lead to addiction.

Furthermore, addiction can be caused by the medications used to treat ADHD. Typically when someone is diagnosed with ADHD, they will be prescribed medication such as Ritalin or Adderall. Both of these medications are stimulants that can become very addictive. Often patients begin to take them and want more of not just the Ritalin or Adderall but other drugs as well.

Once a patient with ADHD becomes addicted to any substance it is much harder for them to recover. This is because their impulsive nature does not always allow them to make the best decisions in the moment. Although it would be harder to recover, it is not impossible with the right help.